Animal Facilities at Aarhus University

 AU Research  Animal Facilities at Aarhus University Animal welfare policy

Animal welfare policy

In recognition of the ethical issues associated with animal experimentation, Aarhus University has formulated an animal welfare policy that applies to the entire university.

Ethics and research in balance

Aarhus University (AU) conducts high-quality research that generates new knowledge within various disciplines of the life sciences.


Until better alternatives are found, animal testing remains an essential part of this effort, and although difficult choices must be made when using animals in research, it is also clear that animal testing has helped save millions of human and animal lives, improved the welfare of farm animals and contributed to the conservation of wild animals.

AU believes that quality of life is important for all living beings and that good animal welfare is essential to achieving the scientific expertise for which AU is known.

As part of our commitment to high standards of animal welfare, Aarhus University will:

  • only use animals in accordance with applicable legislation, ethical standards and guidelines set by national and European authorities.
  • only conduct animal experiments on a rational and scientifically well-documented basis.

Aarhus University will take steps to reduce the number of animals involved by:

  • using validated alternative methods whenever possible.
  • using methods that minimise stress and discomfort as much as possible, e.g. through the use of appropriate pain relief.
  • continuously reviewing our animal models and complying with the principles of replacement, refinement and reduction in the use of animals.
  • continuously improving our high standards of animal welfare in relation to housing, environmental enrichment, care and transport.
  • Only using genetically modified animals when they provide new and more accurate results or reduce the total number of animals used.
  • ensuring that the health of animals in our care is consistently monitored.
  • ensuring that employees who work with animals are appropriately educated and trained.
Revised 13.03.2026
-
Anders Møller