OHSU to Explore Turning Primate Research Center into Sanctuary

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After years of pressure from animal rights activists, the board of directors at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) has voted to explore the possibility of transitioning the Oregon Primate Research Center into an animal sanctuary. The research center has long been the target of complaints and calls for closure from advocacy groups.

Why it matters

The Oregon Primate Research Center has been a point of contention for animal welfare advocates who argue the facility's experiments on primates are unethical. OHSU's decision to consider converting the center into a sanctuary represents a potential major shift in the university's approach to animal research.

The details

During a special meeting, the OHSU board voted to investigate whether the primate research center could be transitioned into a sanctuary that would provide a permanent home for the animals currently housed there. The research center has been the subject of numerous complaints and protests from animal rights groups over the years.

• The OHSU board held a special meeting on Monday, February 10, 2026 to discuss the future of the primate research center.

What’s next

OHSU will now begin an investigation to determine the feasibility of converting the primate research center into an animal sanctuary.