The University of Manchester's animal research unit has been accredited by one of the world's leading organisations promoting the humane treatment of animals in science.
Awarded by the not-for-profit Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), the accreditation is seen as a considerable achievement for the unit and the University.
Manchester joins 20 other establishments in UK with AAALAC accreditation, though only a handful are from higher education institutions.
AAALAC evaluates organizations that use animals in research, teaching or testing around the world. Those that meet or exceed AAALAC standards are awarded accreditation.
Dr Maria Kamper, Director of the unit - also known as the biological services facility (BSF) - said: "This accreditation is testament to the University's unwavering commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare and quality in research.
"I would like to thank to every member of the BSF team and the wider University community for their contribution to achieving this milestone.
"Together, we look forward to building on this success, fostering an environment where excellence in science goes hand in hand with the highest standards of care and ethics."
The application process, which took a year, involved drafting a detailed description of the unit's animal care and use programme, outlining its practices, protocols, and commitment to animal welfare.
The report was followed up by a site visit by an AAALAC Council member, accompanied by an ad hoc consultant, who conducted in-depth reviews of the facilities and operations.
Dr Kamper added: "We feel this achievement can only enhance our reputation among our peers, funding bodies, and industry partners as being at the forefront of responsible, cutting-edge research.
"They can rest assured that our dedication to responsible research and animal care is formally recognised by the world's leading accreditation body for animals in science.
"Though we celebrate this achievement, our commitment to improvement continues, ensuring that our practice reflects the latest in animal welfare and research integrity. "
Patrick Hackett, Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer and Establishment Licence Holder at of The University of Manchester said: "We are extremely proud to have secured AAALAC accreditation for our University.
"This is a highly prestigious achievement, which is testimony both to our commitment to Manchester's excellence in animal care and research, and to the significant efforts and success of the BSF team working in partnership with a wide range of other colleagues here."
- Image from left to right: Victoria perks and Dr Jo Stanley join Registrar, Secretary and Chief Operating Officer and establishment licence holder, Patrick Hackett who receives the AAALAC accreditation plaque from BSF Director Dr Maria Kamper next to Dr Ian Miller
