Animal Materials Working Group

The Animal Materials Working Group (AMWG)

The use of animal materials and animal-derived products is a complex and wide-ranging issue that affects many sectors, particularly research, education, and conservation. These materials differ widely in their source, type, and intended use, making it difficult to navigate the ethical, legal, and practical considerations involved.

This complexity often results in inconsistent approaches within and between organisations. Common challenges include the broad scope of materials and sourcing practices, the subjective nature of ‘ethical review’, limited or fragmented guidance, and a lack of transparency around suppliers and material provenance. These issues create uncertainty and make it difficult for institutions to apply consistent standards or carry out effective due diligence.

In response, the Animal Materials Working Group (AMWG) was established to bring together professionals from universities, research institutes, and other organisations across the UK. The group provides a collaborative forum for sharing expertise, addressing challenges, and developing practical guidance for the responsible acquisition and use of animal-derived materials from sentient animals. It’s primary aim is to produce clear, freely available resources that support transparency, consistency, and ethical awareness, while embedding animal welfare considerations into institutional decision-making.

The Ethical Framework for Obtaining Materials from Sentient Animals

The AMWG’s work resulted in the publication of the Ethical Framework for Obtaining Materials from Sentient Animals and accompanying User Guide in June 2025.

These documents are freely available and intended for widespread use across sectors. They are designed to be adaptable—organisations may choose to use the full framework or draw on specific sections as needed.

Access the Ethical Framework and User Guide

Organisations using the Framework are asked to acknowledge UKRIO by citing the webpage link. Feedback and suggestions for improvement are welcomed and can be sent to nagoya@sanger.ac.uk

Members of the Animal Materials Working Group

Conveners and contributors

  • Carol Smee (Wellcome Sanger Institute)
  • Catherine McCarthy (formerly at Wellcome Sanger Institute; former AMWG member)
  • Sarah Collison (Wellcome Sanger Institute)

Contributors

  • Andy Cunningham (University of Sussex)
  • Nia Dimond (formerly at Wellcome Sanger Institute; former AMWG member)
  • Sarah Long (Natural History Museum, London)
  • Nikki Osborne (Responsible Research)
  • Jenny Parks (University of Southampton)
  • Ros Rouse (University of the West of England)
  • Josephine Woodhams (UK Research Integrity Office)

Members of the AMWG have contributed their expertise, key information and substantial amounts of time to enable the compilation of the Ethical Framework. The conveners would like to thank the members of the AMWG for their significant contributions, support and guidance.

Participating organisations

The following organisations were observers of the AMWG during the development of the Ethical Framework:

  • Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
  • Medical Research Council (MRC)

Page last updated: 17/06/2025