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Pirbright appoints new Chair to Trustee Board
Pictured: Professor Vince Emery, Chair of the Pirbright Institute's Board of Trustees.

Professor Vince Emery takes over the role.

The Pirbright Institute has appointed a new Chair to its Trustee Board, following the passing of Professor John Stevenson earlier this year.

It has been announced that Professor Vince Emery will be taking on the role, after three years on Pirbright's Trustee Board. 

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Emery said: “It is a great honour to have been appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Pirbright Institute. 

“Having been a member of the Board for 3 years I have seen the fantastic work that the Institute does in the virology, immunology and epidemiology of animal viruses, contributing to the UK national capability, but also internationally, in applying cutting-edge research to prevent and control viral disease, protecting animals and human health and the economy.”

Professor Emery, emeritus professor of Translational Virology at the University of Surrey, has had a long and accomplished career in research. He has a particular interest in using an interdisciplinary approach to understand viral infections in immunocompromised hosts, such as transplant patients and those with HIV. 

Alongside this, Professor Emery is president of the University of Hertfordshire's branch campus hosted by the Global Academic Foundation in Egypt. He has also taken on the role of deputy director of UCL-led consortium i-sense, focusing on developing novel sensing methods for infectious diseases. 

“The Board, under my leadership, will ensure the Institute continues to go from strength to strength and remains a world leading centre of excellence in research and surveillance of farm animals and viruses that spread from animals to humans,” said Professor Emery. 

Celebrating the appointment, Professor Bryan Charleston, director of the Pirbright Institute, commented: “I look forward to working with Professor Emery and the rest of the Trustee Board to ensure the Institute continues to deliver excellent science, remain financially sustainable and operate safely as a major hazard site.”

 

Image (C) The Pirbright Institute

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.