Project evaluation in animal research - Possibilities for harmonization in Nordic countries

This paper is a report of discussion, between responsible persons involved in animal research project evaluation throughout the Nordic region, on the activities, issues and problems encountered with evaluating project applications for experimental work involving the use of animals. Harmonization of the actions of responsible authorities in the evaluation of animal experimental projects is encouraged by policy makers at the European level, and the possibilities to encourage this are discussed. While the processes of evaluation and the composition of the committees are broadly similar across the region there are also differences. Applications are often made with insufficient attention, with sometimes too much non-essential information (for example details on molecular biology) given which tends to mask the important question of 'what is actually proposed to be done to the animals?'. Better guidance and simplification of the application process, in particular simplification of information required in the application document, may improve this. Lack of training was identified as a common problem, although to share best practice and flag common errors and problems.