World expert in animal epidemiology and preventative medicine receives Honorary Doctorate
Press release
19 December 2008
An internationally renowned expert in the diseases of agricultural animals, and former Faculty of Veterinary Science University of Melbourne lecturer, has been honoured for his outstanding achievements in the field of veterinary epidemiology and preventative medicine.
Dr Clive Gay was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Veterinary Science at the annual graduation ceremony held at the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus in early December 2009.
Clive was the former Director of Washington State University's (WSU) Field Disease Investigation Unit up until 2005, having joined WSU's Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery as a Professor in 1979. During his distinguished career there, he led the development of the Field Disease Investigation Unit, an applied veterinary epidemiology institution which soon became a model establishment for field-based veterinary institutions around the world.
Prior to relocating to the US, Clive spent 14 years at the University of Melbourne, having been recruited in 1965 as one of the foundation lecturers when the Veterinary School was re-established.
During his visit to Melbourne this month, the Faculty was also privileged to have Dr Gay present the ‘D.C. Blood Oration’ titled ‘The Price of Freedom is Ongoing Surveillance’. His oration highlighted the challenges that animal agriculture and veterinary science face, including public concern for food safety, zoonotic diseases and the welfare of farm animals to name a few.
Clive's achievements throughout his career have been many. Most recently he was the 2007 recipient of the prestigious Calvin W Schwabe Award for lifetime achievement in veterinary epidemiology and preventive medicine, awarded by the American Association of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed journal publications, contributed to numerous books, including the Merck Veterinary Manual and a number of veterinary textbooks.
Clive's research contributions have been fundamental in solving many practical issues faced by livestock producers. He is recognised as a dedicated and effective teacher and highly valued for his unique blend of clinical skills, self-effacing demeanor, practical knowledge and scientific ability.
Clive was surprised but very proud to receive his Honorary Doctorate. "It's an honour to receive this award from an institution such as the University of Melbourne, and I'm especially happy to be renewing my association with the Faculty," he said. "I would like to thank Associate Professor Parry and Professor Hinchcliff for proposing me for this honour, and the University community for being so welcoming."
For further information please contact the Marketing Manager, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, Tel: 8344 7844 or email: vet-communications@unimelb.edu.au