The chief veterinary officer and an author, broadcaster and professor of physics are set to address the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) members at this year’s Fellowship Day.
The event in October is the third annual Fellowship Day and will celebrate a new cohort joining the Fellowship and the achievements of RCVS members.
The keynote speakers are Jim Al-Khalili, author, broadcaster and professor of physics and professor of public engagement in science at the University of Surrey; as well as the UK’s recently appointed Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss.
Al-Khalili will speak about public engagement in science, including its importance, how it has evolved over time and its potential pitfalls, while Middlemiss will discuss the challenges facing the veterinary profession over the next 10 years.
Fellowship Day highlights
The event will also see 33 veterinary surgeons being officially welcomed as fellows of the RCVS, of whom 17 are being recognised for their contributions to clinical practice, eight for their contributions to knowledge and eight for meritorious contributions to the profession.
During the event, there will be the opportunity for current fellows to give a 10-minute presentation on an enlightening and interesting topic of their choice in the world-famous Faraday Lecture Theatre, which is home of the famous Christmas lectures.
Prof. Nick Bacon, chair of the Fellowship Board said: “We are delighted that such an eminent scientist and public figure as Jim Al-Khalili, as well as the chief veterinary officer, have agreed to speak at this year’s Fellowship and we also look forward to a variety of interesting talks from fellows about their areas of interest and research.
However, while the fellowship is about celebrating and recognising the achievement of established members of the profession, it is also concerned with encouraging and nurturing scientific endeavour at all career stages.
“This is why we have written to each of the vet schools asking them to suggest both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are conducting interesting and original research so we can help give a platform to the next generation of veterinary surgeons.”
As well as inviting all RCVS fellows, the college is also encouraging any members of the RCVS who are interested in potentially applying for the fellowship to attend the event as guests.
Those who wish to attend can order their free tickets online.
