The Drug Science Podcast 142. Animal Research and the Future of Depression with Prof Emma Robinson
Dec 10, 2025
Join Prof Emma Robinson, a leading psychopharmacology expert from the University of Bristol, as she discusses the vital role of animal research in understanding depression. She tackles the ethical nuances of animal testing and shares insights on how psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine could revolutionize mental health treatments. Emma also highlights innovative animal models for studying emotional memory and the nuances of drug effects. Discover her perspectives on the future of psychiatry, focusing on emotional biases and the path to integrating social factors into mental health care.
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From Activist To Animal Researcher
- Emma Robinson started as an animal rights activist and wanted to be a vet but pivoted to pharmacology after a mice alcohol study fascinated her.
- She found animal behavioural research kinder and more fitting than clinical vet work because she struggled with procedures that caused visible suffering.
Rigorous Controls Around Animal Research
- UK animal research is tightly regulated with licensing, ethical review, statisticians and vets involved before experiments begin.
- Researchers follow the three R's: need, right numbers and refinement to minimise harm and maximise scientific value.
Refine Handling To Reduce Animal Stress
- Do prioritise refinement: use palatable oral dosing, non-aversive handling and training to reduce stress and improve welfare.
- Train staff thoroughly and supervise new handlers for months before allowing independent procedures.