According to the German Animal Protection Act (Tierschutzgesetz), animal research is “interventions or treatments for the purpose of experimentation on animals, where such interventions or treatments may be associated with pain, suffering or harm to such animals.” This also includes the modification of genetic makeup and the breeding of genetically modified animals, as well as the production of certain substances such as antibodies using animals. In addition, interventions on living animals for educational purposes, such as in veterinary medicine, are also considered animal research.  However, if an animal is killed, for example, to remove tissue for scientific purposes, this is not considered animal research under the Animal Protection Act.

Authorization is required for all animal research. All persons working in animal research must prove to the State Directorate (Landesdirektion) and the Animal Protection Officers of TU Dresden that they have acquired special expertise and the necessary skills. In addition to a degree in natural sciences, medicine, veterinary medicine, or appropriate vocational training, they must also have the relevant knowledge and skills in the care, keeping, and handling of animals. Particular emphasis is placed on the 3R principle as an essential part of training. In addition to this basic training, all employees working with animals in research must complete at least eight hours of advanced training and continuing education in animal research each year.

Species selection is dependent on the respective research question. For example, when testing therapies, the model organism must be as close as possible to humans in order to obtain reliable and transferable results. While genetic similarity is particularly important for some research, physiological similarity is important for others.

Some animals are selected due to their unique characteristics: For example, zebrafish have extraordinary regenerative abilities that researchers strive to better understand in order to develop treatments for humans.

At TU Dresden, we conduct research using primarily mice and fish. We do not use dogs, cats, or primates. More information here.

TU Dresden conducts research in the fields of medicine, biology, and life sciences at a top international level. This includes research projects for which animal research is unavoidable. We avoid animal research wherever possible and use alternative methods, for example. More here.

Animal experiments are exclusively permitted for scientific purposes, e.g. for fundamental research, the development of new drugs or safety tests.

Many people believe that animals are used to test cosmetics, tobacco products, or weapons. However, testing for these purposes is prohibited.

For more details, please see § 7a of the Animal Protection Act.

Animal research is not a part of regular teaching at TU Dresden. However, we do provide training and education to individuals who work with animal research involving animal use.

How animals are to be kept in animal testing facilities is strictly regulated by the Act for the Protection of Animals Used for Research Purposes (Tierschutz-Versuchstierverordnung). Animal facilities must be officially approved. Enclosures with sufficient space, access to food and water, a climate suited to the animal and day-night rhythms as well as regular health checks are the minimum standards. The animals are housed and looked after according to their needs – for example, social animals live in groups and their enclosures are equipped with toys, hiding places and nest-building materials. Moreover, researchers and animal caretakers do their utmost to provide the animals with a low-stress environment to avoid unnecessary suffering.

Everyone who works with animals — both researchers and animal caretakers – are committed to the welfare of the animals. In addition to keeping the animals in appropriate environments with sufficient space and activity, the 3R principle is the basis of all animal research. This includes treating animals with respect and avoiding unnecessary suffering. Regular training courses in the context of further training and continuing education in animal research ensure that theoretical and practical knowledge is always kept up to date.

You will find contact details here.