Tara is a dedicated advocate for cruelty-free science, committed to transforming research and innovation through ethical, animal-free methods. With nearly a decade of experience in strategic leadership and advocacy, she has built strong partnerships within the animal science and research community to drive meaningful, lasting change. Bringing a unique blend of scientific insight and ethical commitment, Tara is widely respected for her ability to foster impactful collaborations. Her strategic vision and ability to engage with the research industry have made her a key figure in advancing ethical scientific practices. With a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and a deep commitment to animal advocacy, human rights, and environmental protection, Tara has been at the forefront of making progress for animals used for science in NZ since 2015.

Dr Jodi Salinsky is the Animal Welfare Officer (aka Attending Veterinarian overseas) at the University of Auckland, where she oversees animal research, including openness and 3Rs initiatives. With over 25 years of experience dedicated to advancing animal welfare and research practices within scientific, industry, and educational settings, she has been formally recognised for both her teaching and leadership. Dr Salinsky currently serves on the UoA Animal Ethics Committee, Executive Committee of the New Zealand Laboratory Animal Association (ANZLAA), as Chair of the Unitec School of Environmental and Animal Sciences Industry Advisory Committee (Animal Health Care & Vet Nursing), and Chair of Understanding Animal Research Oceania (UARO). While on the board of ANZCCART New Zealand, Dr Salinsky championed openness and chaired the working group that developed NZ’s Openness Agreement on Animal Research and Teaching, launched in 2021. This made NZ the first country outside of Europe to establish an Openness Agreement.

With a PhD in Neurobiology and Behavior, Dr. Buckmaster has over 30 years of experience in research and in the care and use of animals in science. Her extensive work includes roles in education, advocacy, and public outreach, and she is a trusted media expert on animal research and animal care in research environments. Dr. Buckmaster is also on the Board of Directors of the National Animal Interest Alliance, Spokesperson and Past-Chair of Americans for Medical Progress, and President of the Texas Society for Biomedical Research.

Dr. Jim Webster is an animal welfare scientist and ethics consultant with a PhD from the University of Otago and postdoctoral training from the University of Michigan. He directs EthicoNZ Ltd and serves on the boards of the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC) and the International Council for Laboratory Animal Science (ICLAS). He chaired AgResearch’s Animal Ethics Committee for 20 years, leading welfare research with a global impact. Dr. Webster has contributed to over 100 scientific publications and helped shape international welfare standards through roles with the Global Animal Partnership (GAP), the Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART NZ), and the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). Dr Webster also serves on New Zealand’s National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) and is Deputy Chair of the Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa (VAWA).

Dr. Sally Thompson-Iritani, DVM/PhD, is a veterinarian and scientist dedicated to promoting ethical and responsible animal research. She strongly supports all three pillars of the 3Rs—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement - and works to embed these principles into research culture to improve both animal welfare and scientific outcomes. With experience in both academic and industry settings, she brings expertise in regulatory oversight, program development, and compassion fatigue, with a particular focus on implementing Refinement strategies that support animal well-being. Dr. Thompson-Iritani collaborates with national and local organisations that focus on the care and support of animals in both research and community settings. She is committed to openness and values honest, constructive dialogue about the role of animals in advancing science. She looks forward to serving as an advisor to BAR - working together through shared commitment and collaboration to reduce and replace the use of animal models in the pursuit of improved health for both people and animals.