A large animal research facility
The CORE Animal Research Facility offers advice and support from planning up to and including the conduct of animal research on behalf of biomedical research, education and Life Sciences Industry.
Services include the following:
Support on experimental design
Guidance on the application at the Animal Ethics Committee
Support on the preparation of study plans
Supply of most common laboratory animals and animal products
Anaesthesia support for small and large animals
Rodent surgery including microsurgery
Large animal surgery
Postoperative animal care
Drug administration
Blood/sample collection
Assistance in demonstrations and training courses
Unit for breeding unique genetically modified rodent strains
SPF (Specific Pathogen Free) unit for rodents. SPF-housing for large animals is also possible
Ghent University is convinced of the added value animal research has on the development of knowledge at the benefit of humans and animals. However, this belief does not prevent the need for researchers to find ways to, as much as possible, reduce the number of laboratory animals and the suffering and distress these animals experience. Ghent University aims for a research setting without laboratory animals.
In 2019 Ghent University signed the Transparency Agreement on animal research in Belgium. In this way, our university commits itself to communicate and inform clearly and openly about animal testing, the alternatives and the relevant legislation. Doing this is in the interest of the research community, the animals and society.