Celebrated infectious disease specialist Prof. Joe Brownlie CBE has been confirmed as the keynote speaker at the British Veterinary Association (BVA) Members’ Day at Clare College, University of Cambridge on Thursday, September 29.

In his speech, ‘The Veterinary profession – how sustainable is our future?’, Prof. Brownlie will discuss the vital importance of sustainability in the profession and its wider impacts on UK food safety and, in turn, the UK economy.

The keynote will also highlight new and emerging diseases, including zoonotic disease, and what contribution the profession can have in safeguarding against such risks, now and in the future.

Prof. Brownlie, who was once awarded BVA’s Centenary Award for a paper on the pathogenesis of mucosal disease in cattle, said:

"In my short address, I will look at our future opportunities, responsibilities and capability to control infectious diseases.”

Prof. Brownlie is an Emeritus Professor of Veterinary Pathology with the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) as well as director of the Southern African Centre Infectious Diseases and Surveillance.

A Bristol Veterinary School graduate, much of his 50-year career has been dedicated to researching infectious disease, in particular Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD). His work in the field has helped develop a BVD vaccine which is now protecting cattle.

BVA president Justine Shotton said: “Prof. Brownlie’s vital work in the field of infectious disease research is an inspiration and it’s a real privilege to welcome him as the keynote speaker at this year’s British Veterinary Association Members’ Day.

"This is sure to be a highlight for many attendees.”