SfN Releases Best Practices for Protecting Researchers and Research

On Feb. 6, SfN released a new document, Best Practices for Protecting Researchers and Research, to encourage better protection of academic researchers who face intimidation, harassment, and physical attack by fringe anti-animal research extremists. The document recommends a set of specific and proactive steps that research institutions can take to protect their employees, while still advancing scientific knowledge and medical progress.

The SfN Committee on Animals in Research developed Best Practices to support members who have already experienced threat or intimidation from anti-research extremists, as well as to help members preempt such attacks through partnerships with their university administrations. Members can use Best Practices as a resource to start conversations with university leadership, and SfN staff and volunteer leaders stand ready to assist members to prepare for those meetings. If you schedule a meeting with your administration, please notify SfN staff.

We have also compiled a list of questions you, as a neuroscientist, may be asked about Best Practices and about animal research in general. To obtain the list, or if you are contacted by the media or others about your research, contact SfN's Government and Public Affairs department for assistance.