EU3Rnet

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlines the intent of the 3R Centres groups and institutions (members of the EU3Rnet) and henceforth referred to as parties, to collaborate, define shared goals, and create a sustainable structure for advancing the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of animal experiments) primarily within Europe but also further afield.

Shared Purpose and Goals

The shared purpose is to work together for a stronger collective voice, joint projects, providing mutual support where necessary, and showcasing individual and collective efforts in the promotion of the 3Rs. The parties have the following aims:

  • Unified Representation: Establish a cohesive, collective voice to promote the integration of the 3Rs principle within scientific, regulatory, and academic frameworks in Europe and beyond.
  • Support and inform policy: Work together to inform regulatory bodies and contribute to policy
    changes supporting the 3Rs across different countries.
  • Funding Opportunities: Explore and apply for grants and funding from the EU and other bodies that support 3R initiatives, leveraging the power of a formalized organization to strengthen applications.
  • Formal Collaboration: Foster – through facilitation and communication - collaboration on research, publications, and large-scale projects, increasing the visibility and impact of the network's efforts.
  • Shared Resources: Facilitate the sharing of resources, tools, and knowledge between centres to enhance the capabilities of all members.
  • Support for Emerging 3R Centres: Provide guidance and resources to assist the establishment of new 3R Centres in regions where they are not yet present.
  • Dissemination, Education, and Public Engagement: Promote the 3Rs through training programs, workshops, scientific events, and the creation and sharing of educational materials, while strengthening public understanding through effective science communication strategies.

Definition

For the purposes of this MOU, the following definitions apply:

  • EU3Rnet: A voluntary network composed of 3R Centres (as defined below) across Europe.
  • 3Rs: Refers to the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement in the context of minimizing the number of animals used for scientific purposes and ensuring high standards of animal welfare where animals are used.
    • Replacement: Methods that avoid the use of animals and animal-derived products.
    • Reduction: Methods that minimize the number of animals used.
    • Refinement: Methods that minimize suffering and improve the welfare of animals used.
  • 3R Centre: An institution, research centre, or (network-)organization, in Europe or beyond, dedicated to promoting scientific research and innovation in line with the principles of the 3Rs. A 3R Centre’s mission includes promoting scientific integrity, ethical research practices, and the development, application and promotion of new knowledge and methodologies that align with high scientific standards. Such centres act principally through promoting knowledge and progress in the 3Rs scientifically rather than through advocacy, influencing or opinion making.
  • Emerging 3R Centre: An entity or group actively working toward and committed to establishing a formal 3R Centre, demonstrating a commitment to scientific research in line with the 3Rs principle.

Membership and Structure

  • The MOU establishes a voluntary network where members agree to work collaboratively toward the shared objectives while maintaining their autonomy.
  • Membership is open to all 3R Centres aligned with these goals and is administered by a core team representing the network.
  • Emerging 3R Centres can be associate members until they qualify for full membership.
  • Structure: Formation of working groups and a core team that can work on different 3R related topics.

Communication and Website Management

  • EU3Rnet will establish relevant communication channels to share information within the Network.
  • EU3Rnet will establish an independent website and relevant social media channels to disseminate information and updates on its activities.

Sustainability Plan

  • Exploration of Formal Structure: The parties agree to explore options for formalizing the network, including the formation of a management group and consideration of organisational structures such as a consortium, federation, or partnership, while preserving the independence and autonomy of each member prioritizing the preservation of independence and autonomy of each member.
  • Explore funding options to sustain the network after the COST Action IMPROVE, including applying for new grants or establishing a membership fee structure to support operational costs.
  • Regular (at least 2 per year) meetings, both virtual and in person, to ensure continued collaboration and action.
  • Document on the shared views of the network, serving as a unified reference statement following the Consensus Statement published in 2021 (Neuhaus et al., 2021)

Terms and Review

  • The MOU will be in effect for an initial period of 2 years, with a review at the end of the period to assess progress and potential revisions.