Refinement Initiative

We collaborate to increase the implementation of evidence-based refinement techniques.

When using animals in research, we should strive to continuously improve their lives through the application of the principle of refinement.

Refinement means minimizing any pain, suffering, and distress of research while also improving welfare. It includes improving housing and husbandry as well as promoting expression of species-specific behavior.

3RsC’s refinement initiative strives to promote refinement of housing, husbandry, and procedures in laboratory animal care to improve animal welfare and scientific rigor.

We’ve created 16 high-level resource pages on common laboratory species. These pages outline recommendations for housing, husbandry, and common procedures. They link out to more extensive resources and videos.


Do you have a question about your refinement at your institution?

Contact us at info@3rc.org. We can act as a resource/consulting group for institutions looking for an external review.


Are you interested in joining our group?

Send a brief statement of interest and your CV/resume to info@3rc.org