Description

Dear Colleagues,

The BCLAS working group EC platform is delighted to invite you to an engaging seminar organized in cooperation with the University of Antwerp, on Statistics in Animal Research on Monday afternoon, 2 March 2026 at the Life Sciences Campus “Drie Eiken” of the University of Antwerp.

Why Attend?

Sound statistical design is fundamental to ethical and scientifically robust animal research. This seminar offers a unique opportunity to strengthen your understanding of critical statistical concepts that directly impact the quality and validity of animal studies, while ensuring the ethical use of animals in research.

Expert Speaker

Professor Stefan Van Dongen from the University of Antwerp will guide us through essential statistical considerations that every researcher and ethics committee member should master.

Topics Covered

· Randomization and Blinding: Best practices for eliminating bias

· Using Both Sexes: Practical implications for study design

· Including Pilot Project Data: When and how to integrate preliminary findings

· Statistical Significance vs. Clinical Significance: Understanding what truly matters

· Pseudo-replication: Recognizing and avoiding common pitfalls

· Interim Analysis: Strategic considerations and ethical implications

· Experimental Unit: animal, cage or whole animal room?

Practical Details

Date: Monday, 2 March 2026 Time: 14:00 – 17:00 Location: Life Sciences Campus “Drie Eiken”, University of Antwerp (No livestream or other online participation possible. Exact room location will be communicated after registration.)

Target Audience: Members of Animal Ethics Committees (ECs) and researchers

Language: English