JRC Summer School non-animal approaches in science

Training the next generation of scientists

Part of the mandate of the EU Reference Laboratory for alternatives to animal testing (EURL ECVAM), set out in the EU legislation on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes, is to promote the uptake of alternative methods and the application of the Three Rs (Reduction, Replacement and Refinement) in science. Education and training activities are fundamental to boosting the uptake and development of non-animal methodologies (NAMs).

The Summer School is specifically tailored for postgraduate students and early-career scientists and provides young researchers with a unique opportunity to learn from experts in the field, to share knowledge and network with peers, and build a professional network.

The aim of the Summer School is to share knowledge and experience on the latest non-animal approaches in science and promote their use in biomedical research, regulatory applications, and drug development, contributing to shaping the next generation of scientists and future ethical, sustainable, and innovative research.

Since its inception in 2017, the Summer School has trained over 500 students worldwide. The five editions of the Summer School (2017, 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025) have focused on cutting-edge technologies such as induced pluripotent stem cells, organ-on-chip, imaging, omics technologies, computational modelling, artificial intelligence, and the current and future role of the Three Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) of animal experiments. In addition, career paths in non-animal approaches in science are explored.

A network initiative, the Student Ambassador Project, was introduced as a pilot phase during the fifth edition of the Summer School in May 2025. The initiative aims to empower university students around the world to promote the Three Rs and non-animal approaches in science among their peers and institutions.

The impact of the JRC Summer School

An impact survey conducted among alumni and published in 2024 revealed a significant influence on the alumni’s current research or career paths, with many now contributing to the progress of non-animal approaches in their professional activities.

The Summer School has created a community dedicated to advancing alternatives to animal testing and promoting ethical and innovative scientific practices.

Commitment to Sustainability

The JRC is strongly committed to reducing its environmental impact and ensures that the Summer School is organised in a genuinely green spirit. Efforts are made to minimise food waste, single-use plastics, paper printing, and local transport emissions. A fully green vegan menu is offered, and participants are encouraged to travel sustainably. 

To better understand and improve its environmental performance, the JRC conducted an impact study resulting in a Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) Report, which quantifies the emissions associated with the 2025 Summer School. 

Reflecting these continuous efforts, the JRC Summer School has twice won the European Commission’s internal prize for sustainable conferences and events.

Next edition of the JRC Summer School

The Summer School on non-animal approaches in science is organised every second year. The next edition is planned to take place in May 2027 at the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Ispra, Italy. The publication of the event and opening of applications typically starts in the autumn the year before and will be published on this website.