CAS Strategic 3Rs Implementation in Biomedical Research and Testing, FHNW School of Life Sciences

The CAS Strategic 3Rs Implementation in Biomedical Research and Testing focuses on how the principle of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement (3Rs) can be strategically implemented within research organisations. The programme explores the evolving landscape of scientific methods, including new strategies for reduction and refinement as well as replacement approaches such as New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), and examines how these innovations can be integrated into research and testing practice.

Researchers and institutional stakeholders increasingly face complex questions when applying the 3Rs in practice. Beyond the scientific foundations, the CAS addresses the regulatory, organisational and institutional contexts that shape 3Rs adoption. The programme equips participants with the knowledge and analytical tools to navigate implementation challenges - such as decision-making processes, governance structures and barriers to adoption - and to advance the 3Rs beyond minimum compliance, using them as a comprehensive framework for guiding good and responsible research practice.

This part-time programme is designed for professionals who operate at the interface of regulation, science and institutional practice who are seeking practical ways to advance 3Rs implementation beyond minimum compliance and integrate them more strategically within their organisations. It is particularly suited for professionals involved in animal experimentation as well as those developing NAMs. The course is also relevant for individuals involved in governance and oversight within public and private research institutions, regulatory bodies and public authorities. It focuses on applications in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, chemical and consumer goods industries.

The programme is especially relevant for:

• Heads and managers of animal facilities
• Scientists developing and validating alternative methods (NAMs)
• 3Rs officers, animal welfare officers and designated veterinarians
• Members of cantonal animal experimentation committees and veterinary authorities
• Preclinical and translational researchers
• Study directors, principal investigators and senior scientists
• Research strategy, governance and compliance professionals
• Regulatory affairs professionals

The admission criteria are outlined below.

The programme combines theoretical input with real-world case studies and practical examples. Participants gain insight into the ethical context of animal use in research, legal and regulatory frameworks, as well as the implementation of the 3Rs in research organisations. Moreover, comprehensive modules address the most advanced 3Rs methodologies, from replacement technologies such as in vitro methods, in silico modelling and AI-supported approaches, to addressing practical strategies for reducing animal use through improved study design and statistical methods, as well as refinement approaches that enhance both animal welfare and experimental quality.

These topics are nationally and internationally relevant as Switzerland plays a leading role in advancing the scientific and regulatory implementation of the 3Rs aligned with the rapid developments in the European context. Developed in collaboration with the Swiss 3R Competence Centre and European 3Rs organisations, this CAS is embedded in a strong network of research institutions, regulatory authorities, and industry stakeholders working to advance responsible research and testing. Participants benefit from direct engagement with international experts and from insights into current European developments shaping the future of alternative methods and 3Rs implementation.

Teaching methods include on-site and online lectures, guided reading, quizzes, demonstrations and applied case analyses. Participants will apply the knowledge gained to a case study of their choice, examining a real-world challenge related to 3Rs implementation and presenting their integration strategy in a final written assignment.

The following programme admission requirements apply:

• Tertiary A: Higher education qualification (at least a Bachelor's degree) and at least 2 years’ practical experience relevant to the programme,
• Tertiary B: Colleges of Higher Education Diploma (HF), Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education (HFP) or Federal Diploma Higher Education (BP), and at least 5 years’ practical experience relevant to the programme,
• Individuals without a Tertiary A or B qualification may be admitted if they cumulatively meet the following admission criteria:
• at least 10 years’ professional experience in a field relevant to the programme, of which at least 5 years in a managerial or senior specialist role
• additional qualifications (various non-formal, extensive further training courses or partial completion (>50%) of a tertiary qualification)
• evidence of knowledge of academic work or a willingness to acquire this in advance.