Target images on animal-free research

Target images on animal-free research are the objectives of each research domain aiming to reduce the use of laboratory animals in research. We introduced the concept for these target images in 2016 as part of our policy advice: Transition to non-animal research. With this concept, each research domain can create its own target images. We provide advice during the process, while monitoring the developments in animal-free research.

Target images have been developed for various research domains . Below you can find all target images and read how they were developed.

In the video below Henk Smid (chair NCad) and Wim de Leeuw (member NCad) explain the importance of target images and how they can be used.

Target images

Fewer laboratory animals, high standards in research

Each target image contains transition goals for the development of animal-free research and the reduction of laboratory animal use. These goals are ambitious yet realistic and provide objectives for the next 10 years. It is important that the results obtained with new models are of the same, or better, quality as those generated animal models.

Developing target images

Each research domain develops it’s own target image(s) as researchers themselves have the best knowledge about what is feasible and what is not. Participation of people outside the research domain is also encouraged to broaden the perspectives on the subject. The infographic below shows the different steps in the development of a target image. A downloadable version of the infographic can be found on the bottom of this page.

Image: ©NCad