We are seeding the science community of today to create a more just science of tomorrow.
IFER is founded as a joint venture by the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS), American Anti-Vivisection Society (AAVS), and New England Anti-Vivisection Society (NEAVS) to support the development of practical, viable non-animal methods and models. While AAVS and NEAVS later funded their own ventures, NAVS made a commitment to continue with IFER and support the scientific grants awarded each year.
IFER’s Scientific Advisory Board is established, comprising experts from the fields of academia, industry and government.
The first IFER research grant is funded. Ruy Tchao, PhD, received a grant in support of his project, “Development of a Trans-epithelial Permeability Assay as an Alternative to the Draize Eye Test.”
The World Congress on Alternatives and Animal Use in the Life Sciences is established in Baltimore, Maryland. Every two to three years, this group brings together researchers and advocates from academia, industry, government, and non-profit organizations to advance the 3Rs—the replacement, reduction, and refinement of animal use in the life sciences. IFER becomes a regular sponsor at the Third World Congress in 1998.
IFER shifts its focus to funding early career researchers rather than principal investigators. Five grants were awarded to IFER Fellows that year.
IFER funds its 50th fellow, Kaihua (Chloe) Chen, for her project: “In vitro studies of biophysical and molecular determinants of the blood-brain barrier during sepsis and systemic inflammation.”
IFER has provided more than $1.9 million in funding since its inception.
Funding the Future of Humane Science
Recipients of the annual Graduate Fellowships for Alternatives to the Use of Animals in Science recognize the significance of humane science. Through their work, these talented early career researchers are developing more human-relevant models to advance science and lessen reliance on animal experimentation. We are committed to support the outstanding graduate students who are working to promote the advancement of these methodologies that will spare animal suffering.
The International Foundation for Ethical Research is guided by a Board of Directors who volunteer their time and expertise to ensure the resources of IFER are used in the most efficient, professional and effective ways possible. Working together, they bring decades of experience in nonprofit management, finance, and legal expertise to the Foundation.
Senior Lecturer, Department of Biology at Loyola University Chicago
Scientific Advisor, NAVS and IFER
Dr. Pamela Osenkowski earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Michigan and her PhD in cancer biology from Wayne State University. She completed her postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School, where she focused on Alzheimer’s disease research. She is currently a senior lecturer in the Department of...
Dr. Pamela Osenkowski earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Michigan and her PhD in cancer biology from Wayne State University. She completed her postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School, where she focused on Alzheimer’s disease research.
She is currently a senior lecturer in the Department of Biology at Loyola University Chicago, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of scientists. With her strong foundation in cancer biology, genetics, and neuroscience, Pamela plays a key role in guiding IFER’s scientific programs and promoting research that aligns with the organization’s mission to eliminate the use of animals in science through innovative alternatives.
Peggy served on the Board of Directors when NAVS founded IFER and has continued to support the Foundation. Formerly the executive director of the National Anti-Vivisection Society, Peggy has also served as president of the National Council for Animal Protection and worked with numerous coalitions of animal advocacy organizations. Prior...
Peggy served on the Board of Directors when NAVS founded IFER and has continued to support the Foundation. Formerly the executive director of the National Anti-Vivisection Society, Peggy has also served as president of the National Council for Animal Protection and worked with numerous coalitions of animal advocacy organizations. Prior to her work in animal advocacy, she was a city planner in the City of Chicago’s Department of Development and Planning.
Sylvia’s professional career stands in testament to the contributions of women leaders within the legal community. She was a vice president in the Personal Trust Administration of The Northern Trust Company who helped to advise her clients on their long-term financial plans and how to wisely invest for their future...
Sylvia’s professional career stands in testament to the contributions of women leaders within the legal community. She was a vice president in the Personal Trust Administration of The Northern Trust Company who helped to advise her clients on their long-term financial plans and how to wisely invest for their future and their legacy. Previously she was a partner in a large national law firm focusing on estate planning and tax strategies. While she is lending her professional expertise to ensure that IFER is managed by the highest professional and ethical standards, she is ensuring that her own legacy reflects her commitment to advancing humane, ethical science.
President, IFER
Former Executive Director, NAVS
Kenneth joined the NAVS Board of Directors in 1999 and served as its President from 2001 to 2018. Before joining IFER and NAVS, he was a professor of law and the director of the Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution at the John Marshall Law School (now the UIC College...
Kenneth joined the NAVS Board of Directors in 1999 and served as its President from 2001 to 2018. Before joining IFER and NAVS, he was a professor of law and the director of the Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution at the John Marshall Law School (now the UIC College of Law). His expertise extended to the fields of formal litigation, negotiation, arbitration, and mediation.
Thomas is a highly respected attorney who successfully represents his clients with skill, experience and passionate advocacy. He is also an advocate for the underdog and understands that animal protection is a logical extension of other respected social justice movements.
Thomas is a highly respected attorney who successfully represents his clients with skill, experience and passionate advocacy. He is also an advocate for the underdog and understands that animal protection is a logical extension of other respected social justice movements.
John has extensive experience as a litigator and successful negotiator who wholeheartedly endorses the mission of IFER. He especially appreciates that it serves as an effective bridge between people who care passionately about animals and those who work in science. He believes that implementing new advancements in technology offers the...
John has extensive experience as a litigator and successful negotiator who wholeheartedly endorses the mission of IFER. He especially appreciates that it serves as an effective bridge between people who care passionately about animals and those who work in science. He believes that implementing new advancements in technology offers the greatest opportunity for ending the use of animals as research tools and for finding solutions to serious human health problems.
