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Award for young bioveterinary scientist
Undergraduate wins competition with research paper

A UK veterinary student has won the Alltech Young Scientist Award competition for her bright scientific thinking.

Bioveterinary science student Becca McLean, from Harper Adams University in Shropshire, won by submitting a scientific paper on Strepococcus equi superantigens (bacterium).

The study had been part of her final year project, which showed that she is capable of writing a sound academic research paper.

Ms McLean will receive a trophy, certificate and a commemorative memory stick in recognition of her achievement.

"I entered the competition after Alltech came to speak to students at the start of the academic year," she said. "I was also encouraged by my lecturer, Dr Sandy Mackenzie."

Describing herself as "extremely chuffed" about winning against numerous UK undergraduate competitors, Ms McLean hopes the award will benefit her in the future.

"I want to peruse a career in research, therefore I hope this award will be recognised when I apply for PhDs at various universities."

Every year the competition takes place at the annual International Animal Health and Nutrition Symposium, at the Alltech headquarters in Kentucky, USA.

Entrants are asked to submit their paper on either veterinary science, animal nutrition, feeding technology, agricultural developments or agricultural management.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
Applications open for BEVA Back in the Saddle

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has opened applications for its 'Back in the Saddle' coaching programme.

The online scheme offers structured group coaching for members wanting to reflect on their career path and regain clarity. Members may be returning to work after leave, uncertain about next steps or reassessing direction.

Attendees will benefit from impartial guidance and practical tools to support their professional development. Members are encouraged to take a 'proactive, future-focused approach' to their careers.

The sessions, taking place on Wednesdays from 7.30pm-9pm, are open to BEVA members with more than five years' experience. The first session takes place on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

Applications will close on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.