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About

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PNARS advisors, supporters, staff are very welcoming
Credit: Mistral

The Progressive Non-Animal Research Society (PNARS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing New Approach Methodologies (NAM) which are innovative, human-relevant alternatives to animal-based research. Formed in 2020 during the COVID era, its roots are closely tied to the BC Foundation for Non-Animal Research (BC FNAR), which was founded in 1970 honoring the legacy of Evelyn Martin RN and has long supported scientists in biomedical research, testing, and training without harmful animal use.

PNARS builds on this legacy by:

  • Promoting NAM (eg organ-on-a-chip, in silico modeling, AI-driven drug discovery) to the scientific and healthcare communities.
  • Commissioning reports, such as the 2023 analysis of the environmental impacts of animal experimentation, particularly regarding Vancouver’s new St. Paul’s Hospital and Health Campus.
  • Facilitating collaboration among scientists, advocates, and policymakers to replace animal-based models with ethical, effective alternatives.
  • Engaging in advocacy and education, including participation in events like the 2024 Humane Canada’s Summit for Animals.

PNARS serves as a resource hub for breakthroughs in human-relevant technologies, providing a platform for the exchange of ideas and the development of non-animal methods in medical research.