About this episode
This episode discusses the quest for alternatives to lab animals in scientific research and the ethical implications involved.
Humans have done experiments on animals for thousands of years — but animal testing has always been controversial because of the concerns for animal welfare. Recently, there have been more and more efforts to find alternatives to lab animals. So how is this quest going? What's on the horizon – and will we ever get rid of lab animals completely? You can binge more episodes of the Lab Notes podcast with science editor and presenter Jonathan Webb on the ABC Listen app (Australia). You'll find episodes on animal behaviour, human health, space exploration and so much more. Get in touch with us: labnotes@abc.net.au Featuring: Darren Saunders, New South Wales deputy chief scientist and engineer This episode of Lab Notes was produced on the lands of the Gadigal and Menang Noongar people.
People in this episode
Host: Jonathan Webb
Guest: Darren Saunders
Topics covered
- animal testing
- animal welfare
- lab animals
- scientific alternatives
- ethics in science
Keywords
- lab animals
- animal testing
- alternatives
- animal welfare
- scientific research
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: ABC Australia
Places: Gadigal, Menang Noongar
More episodes of The Science Show
- Kris sword with an intriguing history, echidnas, tropical forests and Australia’s energy potential · June 12, 2026 · 55 min
- Lab Notes: Tallest tree in East Asia · June 11, 2026 · 11 min
- The First Inventors · June 5, 2026 · 55 min
- Lab Notes: Plants can hear you · June 3, 2026 · 11 min
- AI tools in ocean research and a tribute to Dame Bridget Ogilvie · May 29, 2026 · 53 min
- Lab Notes: Lead may be hiding in your clothing · May 28, 2026 · 11 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Science Show podcast page.