Ruhr University and the University Hospital of Ruhr University are committed to providing transparent information about animal testing, for instance about the methods applied and the number of animals used. They are members of the Transparent Animal Testing Initiative (German website), which was created in July 2021 by the German Research Foundation and the Understanding Animal Testing (German website) information platform founded by the Alliance of Science Organisations in Germany. The overriding principle of research involving animal testing at Ruhr University Bochum is a responsible use of test animals, which takes into account the greatest possible protection of the animals and all legal animal welfare provisions. Observance of and compliance with the animal protection law are a matter of course here. Ruhr University is aware of the ethical dimension of research involving animal testing and would like to engage in a dialogue with the public on this topic.
Test animals are only used at Ruhr University where no suitable alternative method is available; however, Bochum researchers are also conducting research into methods that could replace animal testing in certain areas. In biomedical research, animal testing represents an important part of the spectrum of experimental methods according to the current status of research. All Ruhr University researchers who work using animal testing complete corresponding further training courses beforehand to ensure that the animals are handled in a responsible manner in keeping with animal welfare. An animal welfare board oversees the observance of all legal provisions and approval requirements.
