Rigorous experimental design and analysis is crucial for successful and reproducible animal research. However, the logic of experimental design is deeply rooted in statistical theory and thus can be challenging for non-statisticians to adopt correctly in practice.

This course offers a two-day hands-on introduction to key features of rigorous design and reproducibility such as randomization, blinding, and multi-factor experiments. Through a series of short introductory lectures paired with various practical exercises, the participants understand the fundamental principles of experimental design and its importance for reproducibility and learn to employ different design and reporting methods effectively.

This course does NOT require any mathematical training, preparation, or homework. However, active participation during the course is needed to receive full accreditation.

Learning objectives

- Understand the role of randomization, blinding and blocking in animal research for reproducible research

- Practice and employ different randomization and blinding schemes to increase reproducibility

- Understand the link between experimental design and analysis of experiments

- Understand the importance of transparent reporting of experimental design and analysis

The participants must be involved in animal experimentation (as experiment, study director, Cantonal commission, KVET, …).

For this course, 2 continuous training days are submitted for authority accreditation (Federation of Swiss Cantonal Veterinary Officers /VSKT).

Universities in Switzerland: CHF: 500.-
Industry, external person and institutions from abroad: CHF 760.-

Please note that we will charge you the full fees in case of a late cancellation of the course (within 3 weeks before start of the course) or in case of absence. It is the responsibility of the participant to inform the organizer of the course about the cancellation before the deadline of 3 weeks before the course to avoid the billing of the course. To charge for cancellations is common practice by other providers, too. The new proceedings for education courses became necessary due to an increasing extent of short term cancellations in training modules.

Insurance is responsibility of each participant.