Our training meets all requirements under EU Directive 2010/63/EU and is recognised by the HPRA for individual authorisation.
Courses are developed and delivered by leading veterinarians, researchers, and animal ethics specialists with decades of experience.
We go beyond compliance, equipping students and institutions with the knowledge and mindset to lead in humane, responsible animal research.
The Core Module is a cohort-based, blended learning course designed to meet the mandatory training requirements set out by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and aligned with EU Directive 2010/63/EU.
Whether you’re a student, lab technician, or research lead, this course equips you with the knowledge, legal context, and ethical tools required to work confidently and compliantly with animals in research.
By the end of the Core Module, participants will be able to:
Certificates are issued upon successful completion and are required before progressing to any Species-Specific Module.
The Core Module delivers a comprehensive foundation in ethical animal research, aligned with EU Directive 2010/63/EU and required by the HPRA.
Explore the historical context and philosophical foundations of animal research ethics, including the development of the 3Rs and their global impact.
Understand the origins of animal welfare laws and the key drivers behind modern regulatory frameworks.
Understand species differences and their influence on data reliability, welfare, and study outcomes.
Learn humane methods of euthanasia, including welfare implications and technical considerations.
Gain the ability to identify subtle behavioural and physiological signs of discomfort, and respond appropriately.
Focus on experimental design that reduces animal use while maintaining scientific validity.
Understand species differences and their influence on data reliability, welfare, and study outcomes.
Learn how to classify and assess procedure severity, a key component of HPRA licensing and monitoring.
Internal guidance on safe, responsible, and welfare-conscious working practices in research facilities.
A guided session on addressing public concerns, transparency, and communicating the ethical rationale behind animal research.
Core Module: €150
Textbook Bundle (Optional): €85 + €5 P&P
Our FAQs cover the most common queries, but if you need personalised advice, we're always happy to help.
No. The Core Module is a mandatory prerequisite for all species-specific modules. It provides the foundational knowledge on ethics, legislation, and research practices required by the HPRA before working with any species in a research setting.
Unfortunately not. Attendance at both scheduled Zoom sessions is compulsory. These sessions are interactive, include essential guidance, and are required for certification. If you can’t attend, we recommend waiting for the next available cohort.
You should allocate a full study week, including:
Please notify your supervisor in advance to ensure you have uninterrupted time for the course.
Once you’ve completed the Core Module and passed the assessment, you’re eligible to proceed to a species-specific module (e.g., Rodent, Wildlife, Aquatic). Completing both modules is required to apply for HPRA individual authorisation. You’ll also receive a certificate of completion to include in your application.
Thousands of researchers across Ireland have begun their training with LAST Ireland’s Core Module, ensuring their work is compliant, compassionate, and credible.
Course
Dates
Format
Price
Enrol
Core Module - November
12th Nov 2025 – 14:00–15:30 (Online via Zoom)
19th Nov 2025 – 14:00–16:30 (In-person at TCD)
Self-directed + In-person
€150
Note: Core Module includes ~17 hours of self-directed online learning. Attendance at both live Zoom sessions is mandatory.
