XCellR8 was thrilled to be a participant in Animal Aid’s Future of Science Conference 2025 last week, joining an exceptional line-up of researchers and innovators to showcase the transformative potential of animal-free science to hundreds of bright college and sixth form students.
Our CEO, Dr. Carol Treasure, and Senior Scientist, Tom Ward, delivered presentations on their career paths – journeys that demonstrate how ethical principles and scientific excellence can not only coexist but drive innovation forward.
A Fundamental Shift in the Industry
“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Dr Treasure. “These students are asking the right questions – not just ‘can we do science without animals?’ but ‘why wouldn’t we?’ They understand that human-relevant testing isn’t just more ethical; it’s better science.”
Tom Ward highlighted the business case for animal-free innovation: “We’re seeing a fundamental shift in the industry. Companies are recognising that investing in human-relevant methods isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements or consumer expectations – it’s about getting more reliable, predictive data that translates to human outcomes.”
Hands-on with Bright Young Scientists
For XCellR8, events like these represent an investment in the future of science itself. Many of the students in attendance will become the researchers, regulators, and industry leaders who will drive the transition away from animal testing in the coming decades.
Tom Ward and Senior Scientist Hannah Goldsby led students through a workshop developed by our scientists Isabel Fraser and Kirsten Headspith – a nifty hands-on pH demonstration using LUSH bath bombs and red cabbage extract. As students worked through serial dilutions, they watched the natural indicator shift through a spectrum of colours – making the principles of concentration and safety testing immediately visible – and pretty!
“I was really touched by their enthusiasm,” Tom reflected. “These young scientists aren’t conflicted about pursuing careers in animal-free research – they see it as the obvious path forward. That’s exactly the mindset shift we need.”
The event was livestreamed on Animal Aid’s YouTube channel, extending its reach beyond the hundreds of students in attendance to engage a global audience interested in the future of ethical, human-relevant science.
Part of a Powerful Movement
XCellR8 was honoured to share the stage with Professor Blanca Rodriguez from Oxford University, who presented groundbreaking work in computational medicine and digital twins, and Dr Dania Movia from Maynooth University, whose research into animal-free respiratory research demonstrates the power of data-driven innovation. Rebecca Ram’s presentation on non-animal methodologies (NAMs) provided students with insights into alternative approaches.
The conference also featured interactive workshops from LUSH, InterNICHE, and other organisations at the forefront of the animal-free movement, giving students practical experience with the tools and techniques shaping the future of research.
Looking Ahead
At XCellR8, we remain as committed as ever to demonstrating that animal-free testing isn’t just viable – it’s the best approach from a scientific perspective. Events like the Future of Science Conference are crucial in building the community of researchers, advocates, and innovators who will make the transition to animal free alternatives a reality.
“This is what the future looks like,” said Carol. “A generation of scientists who won’t accept ‘we’ve always done it this way’ as an answer. We’re excited to be part of their journey.”
