Openness in animal research and teaching

Federation University's commitment to openness on the use of animals in research and teaching

Federation University Australia’s research aims to transform lives and enhance communities. We are committed to applying our world-class research to real-world challenges and to making a positive impact both regionally and globally. Our research is organised into three broad, cross-disciplinary research priority areas: health and wellbeing; society and the environment; and virtual, digital and computational environments.

In the first two of these priority areas in particular, Federation University researchers conduct world leading conservation research to better understand and protect native wildlife at home and abroad. Internationally, our researchers work on disease surveillance projects in the Antarctic, and investigate animal indicators of climate change further afield. Working with domestic animals in Australia, Federation University research contributes to greater understanding of respiratory disease, and to improved pest management. The next generation of agricultural workers learn best practice in farm management and animal welfare in our high-quality rural sciences TAFE courses.

When using animals in research or teaching, Federation University staff and students comply with the requirements of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. No project proceeds without Animal Ethics Committee approval and demonstrable commitment to the 3Rs:

• Replacement of animals with other methods;
• Reduction in the number of animals used; and
• Refinement of techniques used to minimise the adverse impact on animals.

Selected publications and media items, project summaries and research profiles can be found below. These are updated on a regular basis.