Questions and Answers about Animal Research at Emory University







Why use animals?

Virtually every medical breakthrough in the past century has come about as a result of research with animals, from the discovery of insulin in the 1920s, the development of chemotherapy in the 1950s, heart bypass and other surgeries in the 1970s, to current work in gene therapy for cancer, cystic fibrosis and other diseases of modern times. Every one of us has been touched by breakthroughs made possible by animal research, including those who protest most loudly about it. If we are to advance our scientific understanding of and ability to treat diseases and other health problems, animal research must continue. This is both a privilege and a heavy responsibility, and Emory is deeply committed to the ethical and compassionate treatment of the animals in its care.

  • Does Emory conduct research involving animals?
  • What kind of animals involved?
  • Where do these animals come from?
  • What kind of research is done?
  • Are animals ever used in teaching?
  • How does the University assure such work is done humanely?
  • Does the University make efforts to use alternative methods whenever possible?
  • Additional Resources for information on animal research


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