This Laboratory Animal Science 2.0 conference has been organized to mark the occasion of the Central Animal Facility’s foundation at the Radboud University Medical Center 60 years ago. This conference focuses on the past, present and future role of animal studies in science and healthcare. What have animal studies brought us? What is their value for human healthcare? What is the future of animal studies?

Animal studies are one step in the development of new therapies for humans and help to establish the efficacy and safety of new treatments. Is this translation process successful enough? Recent international reports have indicated that the translation process is underperforming, raising scientific, medical and social dilemmas. Do we need to change perspective?