Meet Cruelty Free Biologist

How did I become the “Cruelty Free Biologist”?

I became the “Cruelty Free Biologist” in the third year of my studies in biology and chemistry. The animal physiology course and its lab practicals made me start thinking about ethics in biology.

The turning point came when I stumbled upon a video called “Save Ralph”. It completely changed the way I saw the issue.

At the start of secondary medical school, I defended the view that animal testing is justified because it benefits humans. However, after analysing the topic at university, I realised these were only selfish arguments and scientific myths, and I also saw how far science has ultimately advanced.

Before I shared my views on my personal profile for the first time, I spent several weeks researching the topic in depth. The deeper I went, the more strongly I wanted to get involved, to promote cruelty-free cosmetics and science, and to do everything I can to protect nature and animals. More than five and a half years have passed since then, and that desire still guides me.

The first and leading voice of modern, ethical industry and science in the region

My name is Nikolina Kanjer and I am a biologist from Zadar. I completed my master’s degree in biology, majoring in ecology and nature protection, at the Faculty of Science and Education (FPMOZ) and earned the title of Master of Ecology and Nature Protection. I also completed supplementary pedagogical, psychological, didactic and methodological education (DPPDMO) in biology at the Faculty of Science in Split. Through my education, I aim to connect scientific, ethical and ecological issues with the topic that interests me most: animal testing.

Through my platform, Cruelty Free Biologist (@crueltyfreebiologist), the first and only Adriatic and Balkan cruelty-free oasis, I educate individuals, groups, organisations and brands about non-animal methods (NAMs), cruelty-free science and cosmetics, animal welfare, ecology and STEM.

I am a member of the ethics committee for laboratory animals (animal welfare) and of the international network WORC.Community, which brings together experts dedicated to developing innovative non-animal methods in biomedicine and toxicology, such as organoids and organ-on-a-chip technology, for more ethical science that is more relevant to humans.

I am an expert associate of the association Prijatelji životinja (Friends of Animals), where I lead a newly established department dedicated to the issue of animal testing and to new research methods that do not involve animals. Besides my institutional and digital work, I work on science promotion projects and speak at professional panels, educational events and public events.

Through my work, I change consumer awareness and standards in the industry, with scientific credibility always coming first. I am a signatory of the Declaration on Better Influencing and I am certified by the Centre for Safer Internet (CSI.hr).

I am open to collaboration and projects with like-minded people and organisations. For collaborations, project enquiries or job opportunities, feel free to get in touch.