Abstract
PhD Finder
The PhD Finder1 is a tool created by Replacing Animal Research that lets users search for PhD projects that do not involve animal experiments. The user-friendly platform is free to use for both principal investigators advertising PhD positions and interested students. Those searching for a PhD project do not need to login or have a profile to use the platform. It is possible to search for a PhD on different topics, and projects can be filtered by university, location, funding type, full/part-time and application deadline. Once a potential project is identified, you can contact the supervisor directly for more information or to initiate the application process.
1. Replacing Animal Research. PhD Finder. https://phdfinder.replacinganimalresearch.org.uk/ (accessed 14 May 2026).
Only Good Antibodies (OGA) Roadmap
OGA, an open science community dedicated to establishing best practices in antibody choice and use, has published a Roadmap for Better Antibodies in Research.1 For the first time, the ethical and scientific costs of inadequate antibody validation were quantified, and an evidence-based, consensus-driven strategy was developed to improve the current situation. The team systematically examined how researchers choose and validate antibodies, and traced the downstream consequences of when they do not undertake this effectively. They employed characterisation data from YCharOS, focus groups, a national survey, and a systematic analysis of 785 publications, revealing a pattern of substantial, avoidable waste. Then, to address the problems identified, a modified Delphi study with 32 international experts (involving researchers, publishers, funders, manufacturers and institutional leaders) produced 15 consensus recommendations rated as both effective and feasible for implementation by 2030. Finally, the panel endorsed a staged approach: enablement first (training, resources, infrastructure), followed by expectation (requirements, standards) and finally mandate (enforcement).
OGA welcomes feedback from the community and would like to hear your thoughts.
1. OGA. New research & action plan — March 2026. https://onlygoodantibodies.co.uk/roadmap/ (accessed 14 May 2026).
IAMPS: Industry Alliance for Microphysiological Systems
The Industry Alliance for Microphysiological Systems (IAMPS) is the world’s first industry association dedicated to representing providers of microphysiological systems across Europe. In 2025, international regulatory authorities from several countries (e.g. USA and UK) issued guidance that recognises New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), including microphysiological systems, as credible alternatives to animal models for specific contexts of use. IAMPS was created to unite European providers of microphysiological systems, to fully benefit from this global shift by aligning complementary technologies and providing clear industrial guidance to end-users navigating an increasingly complex landscape.
It operates under three strategic pillars: to structure the European MPS market and accelerate adoption; provide a unified industry voice for efficient regulatory engagement; and shape Europe’s independent and sustainable NAMs future. Serving as a centralised interface with regulatory authorities, IAMPS facilitates the regulatory acceptance of MPS through coordinated engagement on validation, standardisation and methodology assessment. In addition to addressing market and regulatory challenges, IAMPS advocates at the European level, to promote strategic autonomy, ensure balanced industry representation and support the long-term infrastructure needed to position MPS as a key strategic technology in Europe.
1. IAMPS. Homepage. https://iamps.eu/ (accessed 14 May 2026).
Alternatives and Simulation in Education webinar series
InterNICHE, along with the Johns Hopkins Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT) and Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation, launched the Alternatives and Simulation in Education webinar series to maintain the dialogue from the International Conference on Alternatives and Simulation in Education (a satellite of the 13th World Congress on Alternatives and Animal Use in the Life Sciences, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2025). The monthly webinars feature expert talks on real-world implementation of non-animal tools, showcasing initiatives and advances in two complementary areas, namely:
— Education through the use of humane, innovative learning tools and alternatives to animals. This focuses on the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes in student practical classes (particularly in biology, medical and veterinary medical education).
— Progress in science through education and training in non-animal methods (NAMs). This supports the next generation of scientists and others in research and testing in practically applying the latest scientific, technological and ethical innovations.
A series of free-access full recordings from the webinar series are now available on the InterNICHE pages of several platforms.1 The Youtube playlist, featuring all of the webinars, is here; the Vimeo playlist, with the InterNICHE webinars only, is here.
1. InterNICHE. Alternatives and Simulation in Education webinar series now online. https://www.interniche.org/en/news/alternatives-and-simulation-education-webinar-series-now-online (accessed 14 March 2026).