Looking Ahead

This final chapter explores the evolving needs and activities of vivarium operations support over the next 20 years. As animal research becomes more complex, expensive, and controversial, the chapter addresses how intellectual and financial investments in laboratory animals will increase. It discusses the pressures to maintain laboratory animals in a cost-effective manner without compromising worker safety, animal welfare, regulatory compliance, or data integrity. The chapter also highlights the impact of a shrinking labor market on laboratory animal care and the increasing reliance on a smaller pool of more knowledgeable workers. Additionally, it examines the advancements in automated monitoring and mechanized processes to improve efficiency and quality in vivarium operations. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the potential of artificial intelligence and other innovations to enhance vivarium support processes and staffing.