Who conducts experiments on mice? - briefly
Mouse experiments are performed by researchers in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and government laboratories. These groups use mice to investigate disease mechanisms, assess drug safety, and study genetic modifications.
Who conducts experiments on mice? - in detail
Academic laboratories worldwide use mice as primary models for studying genetics, physiology, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions. Faculty members, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students design and execute these studies, often supported by university‑based grant funding from agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, the European Research Council, or national science foundations.
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology corporations conduct mouse experiments during drug discovery and pre‑clinical safety testing. Research teams—comprising project scientists, toxicologists, and formulation experts—run controlled studies to assess efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity before advancing candidates to human trials. Funding originates from corporate budgets, venture capital, or strategic partnerships with academic institutions.
Contract research organizations (CROs) provide outsourced mouse‑based services to both industry and academia. CRO staff includes specialized animal technicians, study directors, and data analysts who manage study design, animal husbandry, and regulatory documentation on behalf of clients.
Government laboratories, such as those operated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, or national defense agencies, perform mouse experiments to evaluate public‑health threats, vaccine candidates, and bioterrorism countermeasures. These programs are staffed by career scientists and supported by federal appropriations.
Veterinary schools and teaching hospitals employ mice for educational purposes and for translational research that bridges basic science and clinical application. Faculty and resident physicians supervise experiments that explore disease models relevant to human and animal health.
All entities conducting mouse research must obtain approval from institutional animal care and use committees (IACUCs) or equivalent ethical review boards. These committees review protocols for scientific justification, animal welfare, and compliance with national and international regulations such as the Animal Welfare Act and the European Directive 2010/63/EU.
In summary, mouse experiments are performed by a spectrum of professionals—including university researchers, industry scientists, contract service providers, government investigators, and veterinary educators—each operating under distinct funding mechanisms, regulatory oversight, and research objectives.