Understanding Animal Research is delighted to announce five new Leaders in Openness: Charles River, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Southampton, and the University of Strathclyde.
The Concordat on Openness on Animal Research is a publicly accountable pledge that commits its signatories to be open with the public about how, why and when they use animals in scientific, medical, and veterinary research.
Leaders in Openness was introduced in 2019 to recognise the organisations that are at the forefront of driving openness forward, committing considerable resources and energy to following best practice, and making the aims of the Concordat a reality. While every Concordat signatory is on their own openness journey, Leaders in Openness play an important role in moving conversations about the use of animals in research forward and embedding change in the bioscience sector. Leaders in Openness act as models for other organisations and, by sharing their practices more widely, we aim to support and inspire similar efforts in many other organisations.
To apply for Leaders in Openness status, Concordat signatories must submit an application detailing how they are engaging with the public, the media, and internal stakeholders on animal research, and producing publicly accessible website content. The application process factors in the relevant sector (publicly funded research, commercial, funder, and membership organisation), and submissions are assessed by both public and peer reviewers. Leaders in Openness hold this status for three years, after which time they can reapply via a similar process.
The University of Edinburgh has successfully reapplied to retain its Leaders in Openness status for another three years, while Charles River Laboratories, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), the University of Southampton and the University of Strathclyde have been granted Leaders in Openness status for the first time.
The five new Leaders in Openness for 2026-2029 are:
Charles River Laboratories
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
University of Edinburgh
University of Southampton
University of Strathclyde
Congratulations to these organisations, who join the following list of Leaders in Openness:
Agenda Life Sciences
AstraZeneca
Babraham Institute
The Francis Crick Institute
Imperial College London
Newcastle University
The Pirbright Institute
Royal Veterinary College
University of Bath
University of Bristol
University of Cambridge
University of Manchester
Hannah Hobson, Head of Communications and Engagement at Understanding Animal Research:
“The Concordat on Openness on Animal Research in the UK was established to provide clear guidance for organisations using animals in scientific research, helping them communicate openly about their work and the reasons behind it. Greater openness regarding how and why animals are used enables the public to consider both the potential benefits and the ethical considerations of this research, fostering informed discussion and trust.
“Each year, the Concordat recognises institutions that consistently meet high standards for openness in their animal research communications, particularly in areas of internal communications, public-facing website content, media engagement, and public outreach. These Leaders set a benchmark for the bioscience sector and lead by example.
“For 2026-2029, a select group of organisations have demonstrated outstanding commitment in these areas, earning the ‘Leaders in Openness’ title for three years. This recognition reflects the energy, thoughtfulness, and courage they show in making information about animal research accessible and understandable to the public on a subject that is often complex and misunderstood. Congratulations to our new Leaders in Openness!”
Charles River Edinburgh’s General Manager, Geoff Burns, said:
“We are so pleased to be named as a Leader in Openness. It's been a real team effort across the board at Charles River Edinburgh, and it's great to see those efforts recognised. All of our staff are passionate advocates for the animals in our care and the work we do to help improve lives across the globe. We look forward to working with UAR and other concordat members to continue to build our culture of openness.”
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology said:
"We are delighted that the LMB has been recognised by UAR as a Leader in Openness. This achievement reflects the ongoing commitment and dedication of LMB staff to transparency in our use of animals in research, to maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and to upholding scientific integrity.
“We are proud to receive this recognition, which highlights the progress we have made on our openness journey. We look forward to continuing this in collaboration with UAR, whose support and partnership have been instrumental in enabling this progress."
Prof. Mark Spearing, Establishment Licence Holder, University of Southampton, said:
“We are very pleased to be recognized by UAR for our commitment to openness in animal research. Animal use underpins a significant fraction of our research in medicine and the life sciences as well as to our work to ensure we make wise choices in preserving habitats and ecosystems for animals in the wild. It is important that these fundamental contributions of animal research are understood and recognised as widely as possible. We look forward to further increasing our efforts in this area over the coming years.”
The University of Strathclyde said:
“We are delighted to be recognised as a leader in Openness. Our transparency initiatives, as signatories to the Concordat on Openness, aim to foster a culture of care for both our staff and the animals involved in our research. Through these initiatives, we strive to be transparent about our commitment to each of the 3Rs and how all three are being used to support advancements in science for the benefit of society. This award is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of animal technicians, vets, researchers, AWERB members, and senior management. We are thrilled and thankful to see our commitment to public engagement and the ethical use of animals in research celebrated with this accolade.”
Last edited: 14 May 2026 09:35
