3rd Annual Meeting of the 3R Competence Network North Rhine Westphalia

The 3rd Annual Meeting of the 3R Competence Network North Rhine Westphalia is the largest annual conference in Germany on research in the field of the 3R principle to replace, reduce and/or refine animal experiments in biomedical science. The organizing network was founded by the 8 Faculties of Medicine of North Rhine Westphalia. The aim of this state-wide network is to harmonize biomedical research and medical progress in NRW with the best possible animal welfare by promoting the 3R-principle.

Under this year’s conference overarching theme “Advancing the 3Rs: From Innovation to Implementation” we will explore how cutting-edge 3R research can be translated into tangible improvements in both scientific quality and animal welfare.
 
The meeting will feature:
•    A keynote lecture by Chris Barkus (NC3Rs)
•    Scientific sessions including topics such as organoids in disease modeling, new insights in bioprinting technology, innovative approaches to reduction, laboratory animal welfare (including aquatic organisms), or the effort of preregistration of animal studies
•    Poster presentations and interactive discussion panel
•    Many opportunities for networking and collaboration, including a Get-Together at the venue CT2 on the evening of 27 November
•    Attendance at the Annual Meeting is certified as an advanced training course as part of the German advance training obligation in accordance with §3 TierSchVerV and ATF
 
In addition to the main program, we are offering a dedicated Pre-Conference Workshop for Early Career Researchers on 26 November 2025 at University Hospital Aachen: “Beyond Compliance: Integrating the 3Rs into Your Research Career” to support the next generation of 3Rs researchers. This interactive workshop (free of charge) will focus on practical strategies for embedding the 3Rs (replace, reduce, refine) into daily research practice (e.g. organoids, error culture in animal research, database for alternatives methods, preregistration, ethical aspects) and career development for Early Career Researchers. A number of outstanding experts will support you in this workshop with their expertise and experience.
 
Deadline:
•    Registration: 11 November 2025
 
So it is still possible to register and to submit abstracts for poster presentations and short talks. We would especially like to make Early Career Researchers aware of this great opportunity!
 
Registration and further information are available on our event page:

3rd Annual Meeting - Advancing the 3Rs: From Innovation to Implementation
 
Please find the official event poster attached.

We encourage you to share this invitation with your colleagues who may be interested in participating.
 
We look forward to your contributions and to welcoming you in Vaals!
 
Best regards,
Your head office of the 3R Competence Network NRW