Core Facilities
Introduction

The Non-Human Primate Facility at the International Center for Primate Brain Research is a state-of-the-art research environment designed to support high quality non-human primate (NHP) research across all ICPBR groups. The facility brings together modern infrastructure, advanced technical capabilities, and a strong commitment to animal welfare.

The integrated housing unit enables the social housing of up to 40 macaque monkeys. Dedicated laboratories provide space for behavioural training and electrophysiological experiments, while the level 100 surgical suite is built and equipped to clinical standards and is available for booking by all affiliated research groups.

The facility is supported by a multidisciplinary team of trained professionals who recognise and actively uphold the ethical and moral responsibilities associated with the care and use of non-human primates. Working closely with the institute's animal welfare officer, the facility team has established a range of targeted animal welfare programmes and is continuously refining both the living conditions of the animals and the working environment for facility staff and scientists.


Animal Housing Facility

A central component of the NHP Facility at ICPBR is the housing facility, which is designed to meet the behavioural and social needs of non-human primates. The facility can accommodate up to 40 macaque monkeys in social groups of two to three conspecifics.

The enclosures are several metres wide, long and tall, offering ample space for jumping, climbing, foraging and the expression of natural behaviours. Each enclosure is equipped with a variety of enrichment elements, including trees, swings and toys, which further stimulate physical activity and cognitive engagement.

This combination of social housing and an enriched environment actively promotes species-typical behaviour and substantially reduces the occurrence of abnormal behaviours. Animal care is provided by a dedicated team of qualified animal caretakers who ensure the daily maintenance of the facility. The health of the animals is overseen by a team of trained veterinarians, while their overall well-being is safeguarded by the institute's animal welfare officer.