Research Forward Podcast | Javier Guillén

Episode 20 Javier Guillén

Research Forward

August 1, 2025

01:39:34

AAALAC International: Converging Excellence in Animal Welfare and Science with Dr. Javier Guillén

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IN THIS EPISODE

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.

About Javier Guillén

Dr. Javier Guillén is a veterinarian and senior expert in laboratory animal science with over three decades of experience. He earned his veterinary degree from the University of Zaragoza, Spain (1985–1990), and led the Director of Laboratory Animal Services at the University of Navarra for 17 years (1991–2008), where he also served as an external member of the Ethics Committee. Since 2008, he has been Senior Director for Europe and Latin America at AAALAC International, also overseeing activities in Africa and the Middle East, having previously served on its Council on Accreditation from 2003 to 2008. Dr. Guillén held prominent leadership roles including Secretary and President of FELASA (2002–2010), President of SECAL (2013–2015), and member of the ICLAS Governing Board (2011–2019). He currently serves on the Boards of Laboratory Animals Ltd. and the European Animal Research Association (EARA). His work includes significant contributions to European Commission Expert Working Groups for implementing Directive 2010/63/EU and promoting the Spanish Transparency Agreement on animal research. He is a prolific author on legislation, ethics, and quality in laboratory animal science, and co-chairs sessions for the AALAS–FELASA Liaison Body to harmonize health monitoring standards and develop ethical harm-benefit analysis guidelines. His career demonstrates a profound commitment to advancing ethical standards, regulatory harmonization, and quality in laboratory animal care and use internationally, advocating for performance-based and outcome-focused approaches.

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