About half of the studies published from research with animals are questionable because they can't be replicated. The research community has been trying to rein this unacceptable manifestation of sloppy science practices in for over a decade with limited success. A good deal of focus has been placed on strong, unbiased study design and complete, transparent reporting of findings. But no one is talking about the most central feature of all of these studies - the research animals themselves. How do their personal experiences and welfare impact research findings and contribute to this ongoing "reproducibility crisis"? And what factors should we be tracking to improve animal welfare, scientific integrity and hope for the sick and dying? Dr. Jeremy Turner, a researcher with decades of experience studying research animals, joins us today to share his experiences and offer solutions.

Why can’t we replicate published findings?

Rigor Mortis: how Sloppy Science Creates Worthless Cures, Crushes Hope, and Wastes Billions

Science has been in a “replication crisis” for a decade. Have we learned anything?

The reproducibility “crisis” - Reaction to replication crisis should not stifle innovation

How can we do better?

The ARRIVE guidelines 2.0: a step-wise approach to complete and transparent reporting

PREPARE: guidelines for planning animal research and testing

NIH Report: ACD Working Group on Enhancing Rigor, Transparency, and Translatability in Animal Research (see Theme 4)

The SENSORY SENTINEL allows research teams to measure, track and report on environmental factors impacting animal welfare - easily and reliably.

Room and cage level monitoring to recognize and mitigate stressful experiences for stronger science