From May 21 to 23, 2024, the University of Tübingen became the meeting point for around 200 participants from science, industry, politics, and authorities: The second 3R LÄND Conference took place under the motto „Towards the Future of Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Research“ and made a significant impact on the advancement of animal-free research approaches in Baden-Württemberg.
Organized by the 3R-Center Tübingen, the event provided a dynamic platform for knowledge transfer, interdisciplinary exchange, and networking around the 3R principles. The five internationally renowned keynote speakers, Dr. Josef Penninger, Dr. Daniela Salvatore, Dr. Simone Mayer, Dr. Marcel Leist, and Dr. Peter Loskill formed the foundation of the diverse program.
In seven broadly themed sessions, additional researchers presented their current research work. The focus was on both the development of innovative New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) such as Organ-on-Chip, Organoid, and In-Silico models, as well as their application in industry, basic research, toxicology, and personalized medicine.
Highlights of the 3R LÄND Conference 2024: Poster Presentations, Panel Discussion, and Networking Opportunities
In addition to the over 70 poster presentations,where especially young researchers had the opportunity to present and discuss their latest findings, a round table discussion on training and education in the field of 3R models was held. Dr. Silke Rieger from the 3R-Center Tübingen discussed challenges and perspectives in 3R-related training with Lucia Selfa Aspiroz (European Commission, JRC EURL ECVAM), Sandra Paschkowsky (Bundesnetzwerk 3R, VDI/VDE Innovation + Technik GmbH).und Dr. Daniela Salvatori (Transition Program to Animal-free Innovations, Utrecht University). Das Bundesnetzwerk 3R was not only represented on the panel but also provided participants with information about its current activities, goals, and offerings at an info booth. Attendees had the chance to ask questions and engage directly in discussions.
Further networking opportunities fostered exchange among participants in a relaxed atmosphere. These interactions played a key role in building new connections, initiating interdisciplinary collaborations, and strengthening existing networks. In the context of the 3R principles, an open dialogue between research, industry, and authorities is essential to recognize synergies, solidify knowledge, and develop shared strategies for advancing alternative methods. A special highlight: The conference was accredited by the veterinary office as an education event, further emphasizing the importance of the conference in promoting alternative methods in biomedical research.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors who supported the 3R LÄND Conference 2025! Our special thanks go to our Platinum Sponsor, the Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts Baden-Württemberg. We also sincerely thank our Gold Sponsors Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, OLS OMNI Life Science GmbH & Co KG, and Scientific Volume Imaging B.V., as well as our Bronze Sponsors PyroScience GmbH, InSphero, PL BioScience GmbH, and Carl Zeiss AG.
The 3R LÄND Conference 2024 clearly demonstrated that collaboration between science, industry, and authorities plays a central role in the development and implementation of alternative methods. Due to the positive feedback and high attendance, a continuation of the conference is already planned for 2026, aiming to further advance the dialogue and development of the 3R principles.
