Laboratory animal science - Function B
The Function B course is compulsory for scientists responsible for designing scientific experiments involving laboratory animals. Function B competence is compulsory for those seeking to act as Principal Investigators on laboratory animal ethical applications.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the course, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) comprising at least 180 ECTS credits in biomedicine, biotechnology, cell and molecular biology, medicine, or a related field.
- Function A/C/D (i.e. species-specific competency and documented knowledge of Swedish law and ethics) or species specific FELASA Category B certification.
If you are unsure whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the Function B course, please contact the Named Training and Competence Officer (NTCO).
Read more about competence assessment in laboratory animal science.
Course content
The course content is based on the Swedish regulations (e.g. Animal Welfare Act, SJVFS 2025:28 saknr L151 and SJVFS 2025:29 saknr L152) and the EU framework for the education and training of personnel involved in the designing procedures and projects involving research animals.
The course concludes with a final assessment comprising a written examination and evaluation of group work. Assessment is on a pass/fail basis.
The course programme has been developed in collaboration with the Nordic Consortium for Laboratory Animal Science Education and Training (NCLASET) and is aligned with its educational framework
The course covers the EU modules 1-2 and 9-11:
- Regulations affecting the use of laboratory animals
- Ethics, animal welfare and the 3R´s (Replace, Reduce, and Refine)
- Short theoretical recap of procedures on animals
- Experimental design of animal studies
- Hands-on training on writing and evaluating ethical applications
- Good scientific practice in animal research
Course admission
The maximum number of participants is 24, and a minimum of 8 participants is required for the course to take place.
Priority will be given to postdoctoral researchers and senior researchers over doctoral students. Admissions will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Apply for the Function B course September 21-October 22
Credit points (CPD/ECTS)
The Function B course gives 3 ECTS for doctoral students and postdocs. Fundamental courses do not qualify for CPD points.
Cancellation policy
If the course is cancelled due to an insufficient number of registered participants, the LAS Education Unit will notify all registered participants as soon as possible and provide a full refund of the course fee.
For participants, a formal cancellation notification is required. No-shows and cancellations made within two weeks of the first course day will incur in a late cancellation fee.
Course fees
Please see the current price list for courses offered by the LAS Education Unit.