An introduction to animal biology

Gaining an understanding of the basic biology and behaviour of the species that you work with is critical to the success of your research work. The ways in which we breed, house, transport and handle animals, and the way in which we conduct procedures, can all influence animal welfare. These factors can also influence the animals’ physiology and their responses to specific research procedures. This can bias research data, or increase the variability of the data, so increasing the number of animals needed for an appropriately powered study.