WildAP is a resource for researchers for the measurement of phenotypes including, but not limited to, morphology, behaviour, physiology, communication as well as measurements relevant to animal welfare. Our equipment is usually transportable and can be located at the Viikki campus or biological stations.
‘Big data’ use is common in many research fields, but animal phenotype data collection lags behind due to its persisting manual, often non-digital, nature. This results in small sample sizes, research on few species and populations, and a bias towards ‘easy to measure’ traits and/or species. WildAP supports the transition of phenotype recording to the digital age and enables higher precision in measurements and greater volumes of data.
WildAP adheres to the 3R principles of animal research ethics (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement). Replacement by allowing the substitution of animal handling by modern advances for noninvasive and remote measurements, reduction by allowing substantially more efficient datacollection and use by simultaneous measures of multiple phenotypes from the same individuals and the use of open data, and refinement by development and application of phenotypingadvances for monitoring and enhancing animal welfare.
By supporting high quality research on animals in variable environments, WildAP supports the green transition via research contributing to climate change adaptation; sustainable use, re-use and protection of water and marine resources; and protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems and supports multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals.
How will the proposed purchase facilitate excellent science (breakthroughs, new avenues of research, quality of data)? (30% weighting)
What do you estimate will be the utilization rate for the procurement (% working days / year in use). (15% weighting)
How much time is available for other users? (15% weighting)
Is the proposed procurement equipment transportable? If not, what is the proposed location of the equipment and what is the justification for locating it in the proposed place. (20% weighting)
How will the purchase adhere to or aid the 3R principle of animal research ethics (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) (5% weighting)
How will the purchase aid the Green transition (energy efficiency, carbon solution and environment (5% weighting)
Added value to the region (Lahti, Helsinki, Lammi) (5% weighting)
How will the proposed purchase facilitate digital transition? (5% weighting)