CAS Advanced Research Methods: Implementing the 3Rs in Animal Testing
Replacement, Reduction and Refinement for Responsible and Innovative Research
Key data
- Degree
- Certificate of Advanced Studies FHNW Advanced Research Methods: Implementing the 3Rs in Animal Testing
- ECTS points
- 10
- Next start
- 22.1.2026
- Final application date
- 4.12.2025
- Teaching language
- English
- Place
- Online and FHNW Campus Muttenz
- Fee
- CHF 8'300
The programme focuses on current practices in biomedical research concerning the use of animal experimentation and alternative new approach methodologies (NAMs). The emphasis is on understanding novel strategies and good practice in replacement, reduction and refinement of animal testing. The course is designed for professionals in life sciences, and addresses research methodologies in various sectors (public and private). It equips participants with knowledge on why animal testing is necessary, as well as on the possibilities of minimising animal use and refining current practices, while ensuring scientific excellence and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The programme combines theoretical lectures with real-world case studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts. It introduces the 3R-principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) for research with animals, addressing history, ethical concerns and public perception. Participants will gain insight into the legal and regulatory frameworks surrounding animal testing and the regulatory acceptance of alternative methods, namely new approach methodologies (NAMs). The course will provide an understanding of the “3Rs” and explore alternatives to animal testing, such as in-vitro methods, in-silico techniques and AI applications. Strategies for reducing animal use will be covered, including study design, data analysis and statistical methods that ensure scientific validity while minimising sample sizes. The programme will also highlight the importance of refining animal procedures to improve both animal welfare and experimental outcomes, covering best practices in animal housing, handling and care.
The lecturers will be experienced professionals from academia, industry, regulatory agencies and 3R-associations. The teaching methods will include on-site and online lectures, reading materials, quizzes, demonstrations and real-world examples. In addition, participants will define questions and participate in an open debate with invited stakeholders to discuss communication, public perception, political advocacy and ethical aspects. The participants will apply what they learn to a case study of their choosing, presented as a final written document.
This CAS has a modular structure. Each module can be booked individually. Successful completion of the 6 modules leads to a CAS qualification.
Focus of the module: Introduce the 3Rs through societal, ethical, historical and practical contexts of animal use in research, education and testing.
Learning goals: Develop an overarching understanding of the ethical, historical and research contexts of animal experimentation and the 3Rs.
Focus of the module: Understanding the changing global regulatory frameworks around animal testing. Outline the international and Swiss legal and regulatory frameworks relevant to animal use for scientific purposes, as well as for the testing of safety and efficacy in different areas.
Learning goals: Understand international and Swiss regulatory frameworks related to animal use and implementation of the 3Rs in various research fields.
Focus of the module: Introduce a range of technologies that can replace animal testing through specific case studies.
Learning goals: Acquire knowledge of replacement strategies including in silico and in vitro assays; understand their advantages, limitations and implementation in each context of use.
Focus of the module: Introduce methodologies for reducing animal use.
Learning goals: Gain insight into various strategies for reducing the number of animals used without compromising scientific outcomes.
Focus of the module: Introduce refinement and welfare management.
Learning goals: Gain insights into how to refine procedures and improve welfare. Past and present practice in animal handling and management of suffering.
Focus of the module: Equip participants with leadership and communication skills to advance the 3Rs in response to societal, political and institutional drivers.
Learning goals: Understand public and stakeholder dynamics, and apply change management and leadership strategies to advance the 3Rs. Engage in public debate around the need for and regulation of animal testing.
This part-time course is suitable for professionals across different fields who are interested in biomedical research and animal testing, such as industry (pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, consumer goods, chemicals), research institutions, policy makers and advocacy groups.
The admission criteria are outlined in the programme description on our website.
The modules are taught on Thursdays. Some lessons take place online, while others are held in person at the FHNW campus in Muttenz (Switzerland).
Tertiary educational qualification (at least Bachelor degree level) and relevant professional experience or Federal Diploma of Higher Education (from a Swiss “Höhere Fachschule” or “eidg. HFP” or “eidg. BP”), and at least 3 years of relevant professional experience in a subject relevant to or related to the continuing training programme.
Interested persons without tertiary educational qualification can be admitted, if they have a minimum of 5 years professional experience in a subject relevant to or related to the continuing education programme and if they have successful completed various continuing training courses (in-company or CAS/MAS/DAS) or discontinuation of tertiary education with advanced participation or partial achievement (> 50%).
As the instruction and educational materials are in English, proficiency in English (minimum level C1) is a pre-requisite.
Upon completion of this part-time training, participants will be able to:
- Be able to navigate and interpret relevant national and international regulatory frameworks governing animal use and alternative methods.
- Critically evaluate and apply the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) principles within the legal framework in applied research
- Gain insight into new approach methodologies (NAMs), emerging technologies and strategies for replacing and reducing animal use while maintaining scientific validity and regulatory acceptance.
- Be equipped with tools to lead and advocate for responsible research practices by engaging stakeholders and driving institutional change toward greater 3Rs integration and implementation.
The course content has been defined in collaboration with the programme partner Swiss 3RCC. The Swiss 3R Competence Centre (3RCC) is a non-profit association dedicated to advancing the principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement (the 3Rs) in animal experimentation. By funding research, educating professionals and informing the public on 3Rs, the 3RCC promotes the use of alternatives and improved animal welfare for better science in Switzerland.
It is also supported by the 3R-Network in Baden Württemberg and the 3RCenter Tübingen. The 3R-Center Tübingen focuses on organ-on-chip systems as human-based alternatives and supplements to animal testing. It is active in the areas of i) science communication and public outreach, ii) training, education, and professional development, and iii) tailored research support. The center is part of the 3R-Network Baden-Württemberg.
Programme specific
General Documents
