Empathy and Altruism in Rats?

A recent paper in Science discussed behavioral data in rats suggestive of empathically motivated behavior. This is a potentially very important report for two major reasons. First, a deep understanding of the mental and psychological abilities of rats, and other species, is a crucial goal for comparative psychologists, evolutionary biologists and other basic scientists. Second, … Continue reading Empathy and Altruism in Rats?

A Curious Tale: Researchers and their Animals

Below is an account of how one researcher (Scicurious from the Neurotopia blog) views her animals, and the lengths she goes to ensure their welfare. Although such relationships vary from researcher to researcher, this account is almost certainly one which many researchers and animal care technicians will sympathise with. Scicurious (blogging pseudonym) is currently a … Continue reading A Curious Tale: Researchers and their Animals

Speaking (of Research) to the West Coast – University Tour!

During World Week for Animal In Labs (19th - 27th April), I will be travelling to Washington, Oregon and California to give talks to university students about the importance of animal research, and why students must stand up to defend it. I still have one or two days free (and I am prepared to give … Continue reading Speaking (of Research) to the West Coast – University Tour!

Press Release: Speaking of Research: Students Stand Up for Animal Testing

Contact: Tom Holder - 703 395 0646 Speaking of Research: Students Stand Up for Animal Testing (Alexandria, VA) - The tide could be turning against animal rights activists who demonstrate on campuses around the nation. Today marks the launch of Speaking of Research (SR), a student outreach organization, which aims to rally students and faculty … Continue reading Press Release: Speaking of Research: Students Stand Up for Animal Testing