The young Faculty of Medicine at the JKU aims to forge new paths when it comes to animal testing without taking a categorical a priori position. Can we make progress and medical advancements without harming animals? Or can the alternatives only supplement and reduce conventional experiments without replacing them completely?

In order to even be permitted, animal testing must be indispensable in order to acquire new knowledge. This is the wording under the Animal Testing Act. The Faculty of Medicine, however, wants to commit itself beyond the Animal Testing Act. Decisive aspects include the applicable standards and who will ensure compliance to these standards. The JKU is currently considering various models.

To address these issues and more, the JKU will launch a public discussion in the form of a live stream (video conference). Those interested can take part in the discussion.

When it comes to animal testing, although the Animal Testing Act says "yes, but..." , the "Linz viewpoint" can be best described with "No, but...".  Animal testing for medical purposes is subject to strict controls and regulations before it is even permitted.

How does a "no" turn into a "no, but..."? What limits do humans set for themselves? And what would the discussion process be, especially to involve society as much as possible?

In keeping with the approach by the Chair of the Faculty of Medicine in Linz, the "Linz viewpoint" has clearly outlined the restrictions it has chosen as well as the decision-making processes, aiming to create a balance between modern, high-level research, animal ethics and patients' interests.

This and more will be discussed on Friday, June 5, 2020 at 2:00 pm under the moderation of Dr. Christine Haiden. Previous discussions are available here.