Animal free innovation
Utrecht Life Sciences is at the forefront of a global shift toward more ethical, human-relevant biomedical research. Through a combination of cutting-edge science, education, and infrastructure, three key initiatives are leading the way in reducing animal testing and accelerating the use of advanced in vitro models such as organoids and organs-on-a-chip.
Driving the Future of Biomedical Innovation: Utrecht’s Commitment to Animal-Free Science
Our goal
Together, these initiatives reflect Utrecht’s leadership in transforming biomedical research. By investing in human-relevant models and fostering collaboration across disciplines, Utrecht is not only reducing reliance on animal testing but also enhancing the precision, reproducibility, and ethical integrity of scientific discovery.
TPI Utrecht – Transition Programme for Innovation without the use of animals

TPI Utrecht is a regional collaboration between Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ, UMC Utrecht, and other partners, aiming to accelerate the transition to animal-free innovation in research and education. The program supports the development and implementation of human-relevant models and methods, including organoids and organs-on-a-chip, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. TPI Utrecht also promotes regulatory acceptance and societal engagement, ensuring that scientific progress aligns with ethical standards and public values.
3Rs Centre Utrecht (3RCU)

The 3RCU is dedicated to promoting the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of animal use in science. It actively collaborates with researchers and provides them with expert advice (via Suppo3Rt), training, and (digital) resources (such as public databases and central storage of free test reagents). Focus points are the stimulation of parallel studies and the replacement of animal-derived products (‘invisible animal use’). The Centre aims to form a bridge between researchers that are using experimental animals and researchers that are developing advanced in vitro methods. It also serves as a knowledge hub, connecting researchers, regulatory authorities, funding agencies, and policymakers.
Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation

Launched with support from the Dutch National Growth Fund, OMBION is a national initiative co-founded by Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ and UMC Utrecht. Its mission is to accelerate the translation of biomedical innovations into clinical applications without the use of animal models. The centre focuses on diseases such as ALS, cystic fibrosis, and arthritis, and provides infrastructure, training, and validation tools for in vitro technologies. By uniting academia, industry, and regulatory bodies, OMBION aims to make animal-free research the new standard in biomedical science.