I’ve always admired the work that Replacing Animal Research do to support animal alternatives throughout my degree course, leading me to complete the FELASA accredited experimental design course with the Replacing Animal Research training school. Upon graduating, I took a path to become a licenced animal technician, in which my role is to implement the 3Rs within my day-to-day duties. However I found that there wasn’t much guidance for animal technicians when openly discussing and supporting replacement strategies, therefore I decided to volunteer for Replacing Animal Research.

My experience has been amazing! Since becoming a volunteer I have met several members of the team and I’m actively working on a project alongside another volunteer. The team are incredibly supportive and allow my voice to be heard. I really feel that my contributions are acknowledged and will be used to make a difference.

For me,  I feel like I am achieving the full purpose of my role by volunteering with Replacing Animal Research. Not only am I able to help in an area I am passionate about, I’m supporting a charity that aim to make a great impact.

I’m grateful for the opportunities made available to me from Replacing Animal Research at the start of my career. I strongly encourage junior scientists, animal technicians and students to consider volunteering for Replacing Animal Research, as they are such a great team to work with and provide many opportunities to make an impact in terms of replacement!

While pursuing my master’s degree in biotechnology, I discovered the endless possibilities of manipulating [animal] biological systems for human benefit. Yet, I couldn’t ignore the ethical concerns, especially the use of animals in research. Joining Replacing Animal Research was driven by my strong desire to contribute to a world where scientific progress doesn’t come at the cost of animal suffering.

It has been amazing to work alongside professionals dedicated to promoting animal-free research at Replacing Animal Research. Every catch-up session has been a learning opportunity and has inspired me to stay true to my values and work tirelessly towards my goals.

Through my volunteer work with Replacing Animal Research, I’ve learned a crucial lesson in science, that there is always an alternative approach. This idea of seeking diverse solutions to the same question has led to remarkable advancements in the field – human organoids, organ-on-a-chip models, drug repurposing and much more. All stemming from the fundamental question, “If animal models are not the answer, then what is?”