Episode 26: The Psychology of Animal Research: An Ethical Reckoning
In this engaging episode of the AFSA Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Lawrence Hansen, a distinguished neuropathologist and advocate for animal-free research. We delve deep into the issues of animal experimentation in neuroscience research, addressing some of the ethical and scientific implications. The episode highlights how outdated methodologies persist despite advancements in human-relevant research techniques, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in scientific research practices. Dr. Hansen outlines the challenges inherent in studying neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s with animal models, pointing out that these models fall short of replicating the human condition. He passionately argues for a shift towards human-based research applications that show promising advancements and efficacy over traditional animal testing methods. The discussion also uncovers systemic issues in scientific communities and funding bodies that sustain outdated practices, highlighting ethical concerns and potential pathways for advocacy and change. *Note: The first two questions include quite scientific explanations—but don’t worry, the conversation quickly opens up into broader ethical issues, so we encourage all listeners (even those without a science background) to stay tuned!For more info visit AFSA. Click here to read more about primate experimentation in Australia.Read the transcript here.
--------
49:39
--------
49:39
Episode 25: Compassion Over Cruelty: Dr Faraz Harsini on Empowering the Next Generation to be Animal Advocates
In this episode of the AFSA Podcast, we speak with Dr. Faraz Harsini, a leading voice in animal rights and biomedical engineering. The conversation dives deep into Dr. Harsini's inspiring journey from an omnivorous upbringing in Iran to founding Allied Scholars for Animal Protection and leading the college campus movement toward veganism. Key discussions revolve around the importance of educating young minds on animal use and the interconnectedness of animal rights with broader societal issues such as climate change and public health. Dr. Harsini shares his insights on the inefficacies of animal testing, revealing its limitations and highlighting the potential of non-animal methods (NAMs) to revolutionize scientific research. His candid reflections on the challenges he overcame in reconciling personal and cultural beliefs with his current advocacy work offer listeners a unique perspective into the moral urgency of veganism and animal rights. Read the episode transcript here. If you would like to support Allied Scholars for Animal Protection (ASAP), or if you're a student interested in starting a chapter, visit their website to learn how you can get involved!
www.alliedscholars.org/
www.instagram.com/alliedscholars
Connect with Dr. Harsini:
https://www.instagram.com/dr_faraz_harsini/
https://www.youtube.com/c/DrFarazHarsini
--------
47:12
--------
47:12
Episode 24: Discovering Non-Animal Methodologies in Research with Dr. Susi Seibt
This episode of the AFSA podcast features Dr. Susi Seibt, an expert in microfluidics and science communication. Dr. Susi walks us through the revolutionary advancements in non-animal research methods (NAMs) and their applications in medical research and drug development. Her discussion provides a glimpse into a future where research may no longer require animal testing.In the conversation, Dr. Susi elaborates on innovative techniques such as microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip technologies. The conversation covers the strengths and limitations of these technologies, their implementation in personalized medicine, and the global movement towards reducing animal experimentation. Investing in NAMs not only promotes ethical scientific practices but also paves the way for more accurate and human-relevant data. Click here for more information on NAMs. To hear more from Dr. Susi visit:www.shelium.nethttps://www.youtube.com/@sheliumTikTok: @shelium.scienceInstagram: @shelium.scienceRead the podcast episode transcript here.
--------
39:43
--------
39:43
Episode 23: Rehoming Animals From Research
In this episode, Rachel welcomes Paula Wallace, Founder and Director of the Liberty Foundation Australia to discuss the inspiring mission of her organisation. Liberty Foundation is at the forefront of creating a viable transition for domestic animals from research facilities into loving homes. Tune in as Paula unfolds the foundation’s progress, challenges, and future aspirations, including the exciting opening of a rehoming centre on the Central Coast of New South Wales.View videos of the happy endings for adopted animals thanks to the Liberty Foundation on YouTube.Read the episode transcript.
Nicole Groch, Australian Programs Manager at Cruelty Free International and a vegan hair and makeup artist, shares insights on ending animal testing globally, the rigorous Leaping Bunny certification process, and the evolution of cruelty-free and vegan products. She discusses the transformative impact of major Australian brands like Kmart and Sukin committing to cruelty-free practices. Nicole’s personal and professional journey highlights the power of consumer choices in driving industry change, and offers practical tips for identifying genuinely cruelty-free products. Tune in to learn how your choices can support a cruelty-free future.Search for Cruelty free products | Cruelty Free InternationalNicole Groch Cruelty Free, Vegan Hair & Makeup
Campaigning for a future where no animals are harmed in the name of science, and scientific progress is advanced through animal-free research methods. Opinions expressed by guests in the AFSA podcast are their own and independent of AFSA.
Australia