People to contact

In addition to the researchers in individual research facilities, three players in particular are available to answer any questions relating to animal experimentation at the University of Münster.

Animal welfare officers at the Occupational and Environmental Safety Department

The University of Münster is conscious of its special responsibility for the protection of laboratory animals and regularly advocates measures for improvement, reduction or (where possible) replacement in research work from the point of view of animal welfare. The animal welfare officers at Münster University advise research groups on all issues relating to husbandry and animal testing and they also provide support in any questions involving applications and approval procedures.

Coordinating Commission for Research Involving Animal Experimentation

In November 2013 the Coordinating Commission for Research Involving Animal Experimentation was set up by the Rectorate of the University of Münster. The Commission comprises natural scientists, physicians, ethicists, animal welfare officers and students’ representatives. The tasks of the Commission – which is not involved in practical concerns – are to examine the coordination and harmonisation of procedural processes in dealing with laboratory animals, to develop a culture of information based on transparency, and to advise bodies at the University of Münster on issues relating to animal welfare.

By issuing statements, organising events of its own and providing support for relevant projects, the Commission makes a contribution to objective discussions and transparent information for the public on the use of animals in scientific research and teaching at Münster University.

Central Animal Experimentation Facility (ZTE) at the Faculty of Medicine

The Central Experimentation Facility (ZTE) is an entity within the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Münster. As a service facility at the Faculty of Medicine, it ensures the smooth operation of the institutes and operative units belonging to the ZTE and, in this way, supports the Faculty in carrying out its tasks in research and teaching.

The ZTE’s tasks include, in particular, the provision of rooms for husbandry with modern technical facilities, the provision of animal carers and technical aids for husbandry, animal breeding and animal testing, as well as proper accommodation for laboratory animals, feeding and caring for them and supervising their health. The ZTE’s veterinarians monitor all laboratory animals at Münster University over and above the animal population looked after in the ZTE.