In the Siberian city of Novosibirsk, Russia, stands one of the world’s most unusual and moving monuments — a statue dedicated not to a famous scientist or a political leader, but to a humble little creature that has quietly shaped the future of humanity: the laboratory mouse.
The Monument to the Laboratory Mouse is located outside the Institute of Cytology and Genetics at the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Unveiled in 2013, it quickly became a symbol of both scientific progress and compassion. The bronze sculpture shows a mouse wearing glasses and knitting a strand of DNA, representing the countless generations of mice that have helped scientists uncover the mysteries of genetics, medicine, and human health.
A Symbol of Sacrifice and Discovery
Laboratory mice have been part of scientific research for more than a century. Their biological similarity to humans — sharing about 95% of the same genes — has made them essential in studying diseases, developing treatments, and testing new medicines safely before they reach people.
From cancer and diabetes research to vaccine development and organ transplantation, the contributions of mice are immense. Millions of discoveries, large and small, have depended on these small animals. Yet, their role has often gone unnoticed by the public.
The Novosibirsk monument changes that. It reminds the world that behind every medical breakthrough, there are silent sacrifices — lives that helped us understand our own.
The Story Behind the Sculpture
The statue was designed by artist Andrei Kharkevich and sculpted by Konstantin Gavrilichev. It depicts a wise, elderly mouse wearing small spectacles, sitting quietly as it knits a double helix of DNA. The mouse’s calm, thoughtful expression and the delicate DNA strand symbolize intelligence, patience, and the connection between all living things.
According to the artist, the monument represents “the collective image of all the laboratory animals that gave their lives for the sake of science.” It’s a blend of humor, humility, and deep respect. Visitors often find themselves unexpectedly emotional when they see it — some even leave flowers at the base.
A Monument That Speaks to the Heart
Tourists from all over the world visit the Institute’s courtyard just to see this statue. It has become one of Novosibirsk’s most photographed landmarks, appearing in scientific journals, travel blogs, and social media posts.
But more than being a tourist attraction, the monument carries a message. It asks us to think about the ethics of animal research, about finding better and more humane methods, and about recognizing the role that animals have played in saving millions of human lives.
The statue isn’t about guilt — it’s about gratitude. It’s a way for scientists and visitors alike to pause and say, “Thank you.”
A Global Message of Respect
While there are statues honoring doctors, inventors, and explorers around the world, few remember the tiny creatures that made many of those discoveries possible. The Monument to the Laboratory Mouse is unique because it bridges science and empathy.
It reminds us that science isn’t just about technology and data; it’s also about compassion and responsibility. Every experiment, every cure, and every step forward in medicine carries a story of cooperation between humans and animals.
Why This Monument Matters
In today’s fast-moving world of AI, genetics, and biotechnology, it’s easy to forget the foundation of modern science — the centuries of patient research built on the backs of creatures who never had a voice.
This small statue in Siberia stands as a quiet reminder of that legacy. It honors curiosity, courage, and kindness all at once. And in doing so, it brings together scientists, animal lovers, and ordinary people in shared respect for life in all its forms.
Visiting the Monument
If you ever find yourself in Novosibirsk, you can find the Monument to the Laboratory Mouse on the campus of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics, part of the Akademgorodok (Science City) district. It’s free to visit, open year-round, and a must-see for anyone interested in science, art, or simply a beautiful story of humanity’s connection to nature.
Visitors often take photos, touch the sculpture for good luck, and reflect on how much these small creatures have given to help humankind live longer, healthier lives.
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In the end, the Monument to the Laboratory Mouse isn’t just a statue. It’s a message — one that says even the smallest lives can have the biggest impact.
Source:
Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk
Wikivoyage / Wikimedia Commons – Photo by Qualte, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0