Critical Needs for Research in Veterinary Science

Research in veterinary science is critical for the health and well-being of animals, including humans. Food safety, emerging infectious diseases, the development of new therapies, and the possibility of bioterrorism are examples of issues addressed by veterinary science that have an impact on both human and animal health. However, there is a lack of scientists engaged in veterinary research. Too few veterinarians pursue research careers, and there is a shortage of facilities and funding for conducting research. This report identifies questions and issues that veterinary research can help to address, and discusses the scientific expertise and infrastructure needed to meet the most critical research needs. The report finds that there is an urgent need to provide adequate resources for investigators, training programs, and facilities involved in veterinary research. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 The Role of Veterinary Research in Human Society 2 Progress and Opportunities in Veterinary Research 3 Setting and Implementing an Agenda for Veterinary Research 4 Resources for Veterinary Research 5 An Assessment of Current and Projected Resource Needs for Research in Veterinary Science References Appendix A Statement of Task Appendix B Committee Biographies Appendix C Workshop on National Needs for Research in Veterinary Science Appendix D Bioterrorism Agents Appendix E University Centers for Agricultural Biosecurity Appendix F Student Enrollment and Faculty Size in Colleges of Veterinary Medicine in the United States Appendix G Research Expenditures for 27 Colleges of Veterinary Medicine Appendix H Relationship Between Research Expenditures of Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Co-Location with Relevant Research Facilities Appendix I Institutions or Organizations that Contribute Major Resources to Wildlife and Aquatic Health, Food Safety, and Well-Being Appendix J R29, R37, and T32 Grants Awarded to Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Departments of Veterinary Sciences, FY 1993-FY 2003 Appendix K Research Facilities of the USDA Agricultural Research Service and Its Partners Appendix L Issues and Concerns about Recruiting Students for Research Careers in Veterinary Science from AAVMC Symposium on Veterinary Graduate Education Appendix M Recommendations in the NRC Report National Needs and Priorities for Veterinarians in Biomedical Research that Apply Broadly to Veterinary Research Appendix N Examples of Funding Opportunities for Veterinary Research