Queen's University Belfast
Below is a clear summary of what we know about their use of animals in research and how you can take action.
This university is known to conduct experiments on animals as part of its research and teaching activities.
On this page, you’ll find a summary of the available data and how you can take action. You can also explore the university’s own information here.
Total procedures carried out in 2024
%
Involved mice
Were classified as “severe”
Species Breakdown
Mice were used most frequently. Additional species were also used in smaller numbers.
Full list of all species used
| Species | Total |
| Mice | 9356 |
| Rats | 181 |
| Fish | 23 |
| Total | 9560 |
These figures represent ithe number of procedures using animals reported by the university for 2024.
- Mice (9,356) 97.9%
- Rats (181) 1.9%
- Fish (23) 0.2%
Severity of Procedures
Animal procedures are classified by severity, ranging from mild interference to procedures that cause substantial suffering. This breakdown highlights the levels of impact experienced by animals in the university’s research.
Sub-threshold
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Non-recovery
In addition to the above ASPA statistics, the University disclosed:
As a world-leading research intensive University that aims to enhance the understanding, treatment and cure of human disease, researchers sometimes have to harvest tissues or cells from organs, such as eyes, blood vessels, brain or kidneys to enhance detailed physiological knowledge. Subsequently, animals are sacrificed solely for this purpose, known as Schedule 1 use.
During 2024 the numbers of animals used for these purposes were:
- 663 mice
- 6 rats
- 2 rabbits
What you can do
If you’re concerned about the use of animals in research, you can make your voice heard. Whether you’re a student, member of staff, alumni, or local resident, we’ve created easy-to-use templates to help you contact the university and ask for change.