Save the Date!

Dear members and friends of GV-SOLAS,

We are delighted, on behalf of the Society for Laboratory Animal Science (GV-SOLAS) and the organizing committee, to welcome you to the 62^nd Scientific Conference of GV-SOLAS, taking place from September 16 to 18, 2026, in the beautiful former federal capital of Bonn.

Bonn is internationally renowned both as the former federal capital and seat of government (1949–1999) and as the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven (born 1770). In addition, the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, founded in 1818, ranks among Germany’s most prestigious universities. Since 1949, the University Hospital’s campus has been located on the Venusberg. Here also lies the main site of the DZNE (German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases), a member of the Helmholtz Association. DZNE Bonn provides around 600 staff members with space and inspiration for their research, focusing primarily on basic science, clinical trials, and population studies in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.

Digitalization has fundamentally transformed the research landscape. Modern technologies enable faster, more precise, and better-connected research than ever before. Digital tools—such as artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and specialized software solutions—greatly facilitate data collection, processing, and analysis.

Through the use of digital technologies, animal movements, feed intake, health status, and environmental conditions can be monitored in real time. Sensors, cameras, and wearables continuously generate data that give researchers valuable insights into animal behavior and welfare. Digital systems also help to deploy resources more efficiently—for example, by automating feeding or optimizing husbandry conditions. In research, digitalization plays a key role: it supports efforts to improve animal welfare while simultaneously addressing economic considerations.

Despite all these opportunities, digitalization also brings challenges—particularly regarding data protection, the management of large data sets, and ethical questions. Therefore, a “culture of care” and the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) must continue to play an essential role in our everyday professional practice. This gives rise to the question: What does targeted promotion of digital competencies and the expansion of appropriate infrastructures look like in order to harness the full potential of digitalization in research—and specifically in animal husbandry?

We invite you to join us in exploring this and many other exciting questions through our presentations, workshops, and roundtables.

The scientific program will be held at the Maritim Conference Hotel. Situated in the Rheinaue park, its open layout fosters both personal exchange among colleagues and interaction with industry partners. The workshops will chiefly take place in the DZNE building. Another highlight will be the evening event at Godesburg, with its panoramic views over the Rhine Valley and the Siebengebirge hills.

We look forward to seeing you soon at the 2026 conference in Bonn.