The use of animals in scientific research is a complex and often controversial topic, raising important ethical questions about animal welfare, necessity, and the search for alternatives. For those committed to advancing ethical science, the principles of the 3Rs—Refinement, Reduction, and Replacement—serve as a guiding framework for responsible animal research. In support of these efforts, the Global 3Rs Awards Program stands as an international beacon of innovation, recognizing outstanding contributions that embody the spirit of ethical scientific advancement.
About the Global 3Rs Awards Program
Established to honor and promote transformative work in applying the 3Rs, the Global 3Rs Awards Program acknowledges innovative research efforts that significantly improve the treatment and use of animals in science. Whether in academia or industry, researchers across diverse disciplines—from basic biology to developing vaccines and medical devices—are eligible to participate.
Award Structure and Categories
In 2025, up to four Global Awards of $10,000 (USD) each will be granted. The two main award categories are:
Primary Research Paper Awards:
The selection committee may grant one award each to outstanding contributions from three geographic regions.
- The Americas
- Asia-Pacific
- Europe-Africa-Middle East
These awards focus on peer-reviewed research published within the last three years demonstrating tangible progress in any of the 3Rs.
Summative 3Rs Category:
The selection committee reserves a fourth award for a summative contribution such as a systematic review, meta-analysis, or comprehensive narrative that sheds new light on the ethical use of animals in research.
Types of Innovations Considered
Submissions may include:
- Improvements to animal models or tissue-based alternatives (e.g., cell lines, tissue cultures)
- New molecular techniques (e.g., proteomics, computational models)
- Enhanced study designs or sampling technologies
- Translational medicine applications that reduce or eliminate animal use
This expansive scope encourages bold, cross-disciplinary approaches to solving longstanding challenges in humane research practices.
Eligibility and Submission Guidelines
Applicants must submit:
- A nominating letter (self-nominations allowed)
- A completed application form
- A copy of the published paper (must be peer-reviewed and dated between June 1, 2022 – June 1, 2025)
Note: The nominee cannot be a licensed human health professional (e.g., MD, DDS, DO).
Key Dates
- Call for Nominations: January–May 2025
- Submission Deadline: 4:00 p.m. EDT, June 1, 2025
- Recipient Notification: August 2025
- Award Presentation: October 2025
Applications can be submitted online or via email (as a single PDF) to Global3Rs@aaalac.org.
Get Prepared with CITI Program’s 3Rs Certificate Course
For researchers, educators, and institutional stakeholders interested in enhancing their understanding and practical application of the 3Rs, CITI Program offers a dedicated 3Rs Certificate Course developed in collaboration with the 3Rs Collaborative (3RsC).
Course Overview
This five-module course empowers learners to integrate the principles of the 3Rs into every aspect of animal research and protocol development. The curriculum includes:
- History and Overview of the 3Rs
- Replacement – Identifying non-animal alternatives
- Reduction – Minimizing animal numbers without sacrificing quality
- Refinement – Improving methods to minimize suffering
- Summary and Applications – Translating knowledge into action
By completing this course, learners can better demonstrate their commitment to ethical research and readiness to contribute meaningfully to humane science initiatives.
Who Should Enroll?
This course is ideal for:
- Animal researchers and laboratory staff
- Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members
- Veterinarians and regulatory personnel
- Educators and students in biological sciences
This course positions you as a proactive leader in the evolving landscape of responsible animal research.
A Unified Mission for Ethical Innovation
The Global 3Rs Awards and the 3Rs Certificate Course reflect a shared mission: to reduce the ethical burden of animal use in science and promote responsible, evidence-based alternatives. They empower researchers and institutions to pursue humane, scientifically valid research practices that benefit animals and the broader scientific community.
Learn More
