Research Forward Podcast

In this special and heartfelt episode of Research Forward, we honor the life and legacy of Pete Willan, a remarkable leader whose five decades of service transformed biomedical research facilities and advanced the standards of animal welfare across the UK. Host David Mayo and guest Alison Hopkins reflect on Pete’s extraordinary career—from his strategic leadership at the University of Leicester’s Division of Biomedical Services to his unwavering commitment to humane care, ethical practice, and the technicians who uphold them.
We explore Pete’s groundbreaking 2001 study examining emotional conflict among animal care technicians, his leadership in advancing the 3Rs, and his influential innovations in environmental enrichment—such as nest packs and the seesaw—that improved welfare for research animals and working conditions for staff. Through data-driven insights, compassionate inquiry, and practical solutions, Pete elevated the role of the animal technician and shaped a more transparent, humane, and resilient research community.
This episode pays tribute to a pioneer whose impact continues to guide biomedical services today.

In this episode of Research Forward, we sit down with Tommy Jackson, CEO of Prelude, to explore how technology is transforming clinical research. Tommy shares his journey from finance and Silicon Valley startups to leading one of the most trusted eClinical platforms in animal health—and now expanding into human health trials. We discuss:
How Prelude’s Electronic Data Capture (EDC) system accelerates trial timelines by up to 50% and reduces database build times by 75%.
Lessons human health research can learn from decades of optimization in veterinary trials.
Why user-friendly design and integrated modules like ePRO and eConsent are critical for trial success.
The role of robust customer success teams in overcoming resistance to digital adoption.
How modern EDC systems support compliance, improve data quality, and even help advance the “Three Rs” in animal research.
If you’ve ever wondered how clinical data management can evolve to be faster, more accurate, and more humane, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo welcomes Dr. Michael Florea, co-founder and CEO of Olden Labs, a Harvard-trained synthetic biologist revolutionizing longevity research. Michael shares his journey from teenage lab work in Estonia to developing whole-body gene delivery systems at Harvard Medical School, and ultimately founding Olden Labs to tackle the bottlenecks of animal studies.Discover how Olden Labs is building the world’s first automated animal research lab using AI-powered smart cages and robotics to transform data collection, reduce costs, and improve animal welfare. From non-invasive health monitoring to accelerating disease model development, this conversation explores the intersection of engineering, biology, and artificial intelligence in modern biotech.Learn how automation is reshaping reproducibility, ethical standards, and the future of preclinical research—one smart cage at a time.

In this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David sits down with Arantza Muriana, Chief Investigational Officer and CEO of Biobide’s American affiliate. Arantza shares her inspiring journey from clinical trials in Spain to pioneering preclinical research using zebrafish and other aquatic models. Together, they explore how Biobide is transforming drug discovery, toxicology, and environmental safety testing through innovative, ethical, and high-throughput methods.
Learn how zebrafish are helping reduce animal testing, accelerate rare disease research, and improve regulatory science. From AI-driven image analysis to personalized medicine and environmental impact assessments, this conversation dives deep into the science, challenges, and promise of alternative models in modern biotech.

In this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo sits down with Dr. Eleanor Raffan, veterinary surgeon and geneticist at the University of Cambridge, to explore the surprising genetic links between obesity in dogs and humans. Through her groundbreaking work with pet Labradors and other breeds, Dr. Raffan reveals how genes like POMC and D1B influence appetite, metabolism, and weight gain—offering insights that challenge the conventional wisdom that obesity is simply a matter of willpower. Her research not only highlights the biological complexity of obesity but also underscores the shared health challenges between humans and their canine companions.
Dr. Raffan also discusses the ethical and practical importance of studying dogs in their home environments rather than in kennels, and how her team’s findings are reshaping how veterinarians and pet owners approach obesity prevention. From the role of polygenic risk scores to the impact of neutering on appetite, this episode dives deep into the science of obesity while advocating for compassion and understanding—both for pets and people. Whether you're a dog lover, a health professional, or just curious about the genetics of weight, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on a growing global issue.

In this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo welcomes Javier Guillén, Senior Director at AAALAC International, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of laboratory animal science and global accreditation. Javier shares his personal journey from a veterinary graduate in Spain to a global leader in animal welfare and research ethics. He reflects on the early challenges of entering the field without formal training, the importance of ethical oversight, and how international collaboration has shaped the standards we see today.
Gain insight into the mission and impact of AAALAC International, the value of voluntary accreditation, and the role of a “culture of care” in advancing both science and animal welfare. Javier also discusses the importance of harmonization—not standardization—across global research environments, and how institutions can continuously improve through peer review, self-evaluation, and commitment to the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement). Whether you're a researcher, veterinarian, or simply curious about the ethics behind scientific progress, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring perspective.

In this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo sits down with Professor Paul Flecknell, a global authority on laboratory animal welfare, anesthesia, and pain management. With over four decades of experience, Professor Flecknell shares his journey from aspiring large-animal vet to pioneering researcher and educator in lab animal care. He discusses the critical importance of refining anesthesia and analgesia practices—not just for ethical reasons, but to improve the quality and reliability of scientific data.
Whether you're a researcher, veterinarian, or simply curious about the ethics behind scientific discovery, you'll find valuable insights into how thoughtful care and modern technology can elevate both animal welfare and research quality. It's a powerful reminder that even small improvements in practice can lead to meaningful change.

In this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Professor Jan-Bas Prins, a prominent figure in lab animal science and an advocate for transitioning away from animal testing. Professor Prins shares his journey from zoology to becoming a leading voice in lab animal science, discussing his roles at the Leiden University Medical Center and the Francis Crick Institute.
They delve into the European directive on animal research, the principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), and the challenges of implementing these principles in scientific research. Professor Prins emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative methods and technologies, such as organoids, 3D cultures, and AI, to reduce reliance on animal models.
The conversation also covers the ethical and practical aspects of transitioning to animal-free research, the role of international collaboration, and the impact of societal attitudes towards animal use in science. Professor Prins highlights the need for continuous improvement in research practices and the significance of engaging with stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
Listeners will gain insights into the complexities of lab animal science, the progress made towards animal-free innovations, and the ongoing efforts to balance scientific advancement with ethical considerations.

In this powerful episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo sits down with Dr. Dvir Mintz, Director of the Preclinical Research Authority at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, to explore what it means to lead a critical animal research facility during a time of war. While on vacation abroad, Dr. Mintz was thrust into crisis management as conflict erupted back home, forcing him to coordinate operations remotely under extreme conditions.
Through candid storytelling, Dr. Mintz shares how his team’s preparedness, adaptability, and deep sense of community enabled them to maintain animal welfare and research continuity despite missile threats, disrupted supply chains, and staffing challenges. He discusses the importance of radical self-reliance, the mental health of animal care workers, and how lessons from events like Burning Man helped shape a resilient, self-sustaining operational model.
This episode is a masterclass in leadership under pressure, offering valuable insights for anyone involved in research, crisis planning, or team management.

In this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Dr. Lily Iskhakova, a leading neuroscientist from the Weizmann Institute. They delve into the intricate world of neuronal networks, exploring the mysteries of learning, memory, and neurological disorders. Dr. Iskhakova shares her innovative work on the rehabilitation of animals used in Parkinson's disease models, highlighting her research on the electrophysiological fingerprints of aberrant neuronal activity in primate models.The conversation covers the development of surgical methods to address medication-resistant neurological and psychiatric disorders through deep brain stimulation and neurofeedback algorithms. Dr. Iskhakova explains the potential of these techniques to reformat pathological brain activity and improve patient outcomes. They also discuss the unique environment of the Weizmann Institute, which fosters collaboration and innovation among researchers from diverse backgrounds.Additionally, Dr. Iskhakova emphasizes the importance of animal care and training in research, detailing her approach to building trust and positive reinforcement with primates. The episode concludes with insights into the future of neuroscience research and the potential for new treatments for Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the groundbreaking work being done at the Weizmann Institute and its implications for the field of neuroscience.