Bioresearch and Veterinary Services (BVS) and 3Rs

The Bioresearch and Veterinary Services (BVS) oversees the use of animals in scientific research at the University of Edinburgh.

A culture of care

Animal welfare is a priority at LARIF.

All work is undertaken in line with UK Home Office guidelines. Licencing requirements are overseen by:

  • Named Veterinary Surgeons (NVS)
  • Named Animal Care and Welfare Officers (NACWO)
  • experienced animal technicians

Bioresearch and Veterinary Services (BVS) supports us by providing veterinary, Home Office license and training services.

Several cows laying on a floor of hay in a barn.

Replacement, Reduction, Refinement - 3Rs

The team based at LARIF work closely with technical and academic staff and their research partners to:

  • apply the principles of the 3Rs - Replacement, Reduction and Refinement
  • ensure compliance with current legislation
  • uphold ethical standards and regulations

The team also provide independent advice on the health and welfare of the animals used in research projects.

Applying the principles of the 3Rs includes advising on best practice in large animal research and developing strategies to minimise the impact of procedures on the welfare of animals.

The use of animals in research at the University of Edinburgh

This article was published on