High-tech animal models

Hich-tech animal models
In short- Real-time data
- Smart sensor technology
- Complex cell systems
- In vitro assays
Within the domain bioveterinary research, we develop high-tech animal models that monitor health, behaviour, and disease and deliver precise, ethical, and data-driven insights for animal research. By combining real-time monitoring with smart alternatives to animal experiments such as complex cell systems and in vitro assays, we help reduce, refine and replace the use of animals in research. This approach improves scientific quality, strengthens animal welfare and speeds up innovation in veterinary and biomedical sciences.
Animal models remain essential for the safe development of new veterinary medicines and vaccines. At the same time, there is an urgent need for reliable and ethical monitoring tools. We therefore design animal models that integrate cutting-edge technologies such as sensors, micro-sampling, accelerometers and computer vision.
With these tools, researchers and partners gain richer insights from every study. We can continuously monitor physiology and behaviour, detect early signs of disease before symptoms appear, and validate treatments under controlled, reproducible conditions. Alongside these models, we also develop alternatives, for example, replacing an animal model with an in vitro assay that delivers comparable results, or using complex cell systems to limit animal testing.
Every model we build follows the 3Rs: Replacement, Reduction and Refinement. This ensures fewer animals are used while increasing the quality and reliability of the data. For our partners and our scientific research, this translates into validated insights, predictive models and smarter experimental design that accelerates product development.
Discover our expertises
Expertises
Complex cell systems in animal disease research
Complex cell systems, such as organoids, are miniature, self-organising versions of animal tissues and organs. We develop and apply these advanced models to study animal diseases, test interventions and reduce the need for animal testing.


Complex cell systems in animal disease research
Complex cell systems, such as organoids, are miniature, self-organising versions of animal tissues and organs. We develop and apply these advanced models to study animal diseases, test interventions and reduce the need for animal testing.

Epidemiology and data driven innovation in animal disease research
We combine epidemiology with data-driven innovation to better understand, predict and control animal diseases. By integrating models, surveillance data and advanced digital tools, we support decision-making that reduces risks, improves animal resilience and strengthens One Health strategies.
Facilities
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Why partner with WUR

We offer:
- Integrated use of sensors, micro-sampling and AI for real-time monitoring
- Strong adherence to the 3Rs for ethical and efficient research
- Validated models that enable earlier disease detection and reduce animal use
- Development of rich datasets and digital models for in silico experimentation
- Controlled environments for high-quality, reproducible data
Get in touch
For more information on our high-tech animal models contact our expert.
Related focus areas
One Health
The One Health concept highlights the inseparable link between human, animal, and environmental health. Key challenges include zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the climate-driven rise of vector-borne infectious diseases. We address these issues by conducting multidisciplinary research at the intersection of humans, animals, and ecosystems.
One Health
The One Health concept highlights the inseparable link between human, animal, and environmental health. Key challenges include zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the climate-driven rise of vector-borne infectious diseases. We address these issues by conducting multidisciplinary research at the intersection of humans, animals, and ecosystems.
Diagnostics for animal diseases
We deliver high-quality veterinary diagnostic services for the early detection and control of infectious animal diseases. Diagnostics safeguard animal and public health by preventing the spread of pathogens and supporting effective control measures.
Animal health and disease prevention
We aim for livestock farming systems in which animal welfare and health are the foundation. Animal diseases threaten this goal. WUR addresses these challenges through research focused on preventing disease and strengthening animal health.
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