The UK is at a pivotal turning point in scientific research. In late 2025, the UK Government launched its landmark strategy, “Replacing Animals in Science: A strategy to support the development, validation and uptake of alternative methods“ – a bold roadmap aimed at phasing out the use of animals in research and testing in all but exceptional circumstance. It’s also about embracing the next generation of human-relevant technologies—such as organ-on-a-chip, 3D bioprinting, and AI-driven modeling—to deliver safer, faster, and more effective results.

The Strategy at a Glance

The government has committed to a series of targets and infrastructure investments, including:

• The £75 Million Investment: Dedicated funding to accelerate the development and validation of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs).
• A New National Hub: Establishing a UK Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (UKCVAM) to streamline the path from the lab to regulatory approval.
• Immediate Phase-Outs: Ending specific regulatory tests, such as rabbit pyrogen testing (by 2025) and skin/eye irritation tests (by 2026).
• Global Leadership: Positioning the UK as the world leader in ethical, high-tech life sciences.

As the scientific landscape shifts, our organisation is dedicated to supporting researchers, ethical review bodies (AWERBs), Research funders and labs in making this transition seamless and successful. We offer:

• Strategic Guidance: Helping universities, funders, and trainers prioritise replacement in processes and strategy.
• Funding: We provide funding for research and upskilling in alternatives.
• Policy support: We provide Replacement implementation advice to the policymakers, research councils, and regulators.
• Training & Education: We provide replacement focused training and resources for students, early-career, and established researchers.