A milestone for reproducibility
Our work with PETA Science Consortium International (PSCI) has been recognised as a winner of the NIH Replication Prize (Track 2: Replication Exemplars). The award ceremony was held virtually on 13 May 2026 and marked the first edition of this initiative focused on strengthening reproducibility in biomedical research.
A first-of-its-kind initiative
Launched in 2025, the US NIH Replication Prize recognises research that improves robustness and transparency in biomedical science. Around 35 winners were selected across two tracks, covering both innovative concepts and applied solutions addressing challenges in research reliability.
A broad multi-disciplinary collaborative effort
The work brings together SERS Scientists together with other partners across academia, industry and non-profit organisations.
Contributions included recombinant antibody development and ELISA optimisation (Abcalis & Unilever), large-scale transition to recombinant antibodies (Abcam), open-access antibody sequence resources (University of Geneva/ ABCD Antibodies), multi-site validation studies (FC3Rs and 3Rs Centres), and integration into education and training (Technical University of Berlin).
Unilever’s contribution
SERS Scientists, Ouarda Saib, Mark Fowler, and Samera Rafiq, contributed to antibody discovery and assay development through a collaboration with Abcalis, including the development of a recombinant, 100% animal-free IL‑8 ELISA.
This work supports the transition towards animal‑free in vitro research systems and more reliable, reproducible and human‑relevant tools for safety science.
The full NIH award ceremony can be watched here.
Related Links:
Announcing the Winners of the NIH Replication Prize: Shaping the Future of Rigorous Science