A key reason for poor translation from animal models to humans is the inadequate use and understanding of these models. Rodents are often treated as either small humans or mere test tools, ignoring their unique sensory perceptions and natural behaviors.

This project aims to improve translation by evaluating how different handling (none, passive, active) and housing conditions (standard, enriched, naturalistic) affect behavior in mice and rats.

Standard and novel tests for anxiety, memory, and other behaviors will be used, including tests on disease models.

The goal is to develop more naturalistic, less stressful testing methods using machine learning, which could reduce animal use and improve research relevance to human conditions. The host lab specializes in innovative behavioral testing and data-driven modeling.

This project will be hosted primarily at Radboud University, and secondments are planned at Idorsia and the University of Porto with Patricia.

You can find out more about Lisa’s research here: www.genzellab.com