Have you considered pursuing a PhD?
As vets, we are incredibly well placed to pursue a PhD. As individuals, we are motivated, resilient, and collegial. As scientists (and believe me, we're all scientists!), we are curious, analytical, and already have a broad knowledge base!
The number of vets pursuing a PhD, compared to other similar professions, is woefully low. This limits our ability to influence decisions that directly affect our industry and, more importantly, the future of agriculture in Europe. As PhD graduates, not only can you command a higher wage, but you can also broaden your employability to include industry, research, academia, consultancy, government and much more (or if you're a glutton for punishment, all of the above)!
Our research group at the University of Glasgow has several PhD positions at the intersection of animal production, health, and agricultural sustainability.
NWB: Investigating the effects of grazing biosolids fertilised pasture on ruminant gastrointestinal health and efficiency
College Futures Themes PhD Programme: Quantifying the exposure and effect of dietary microplastics on bovine nutrient utilisation
However, there are many more options, including those related to diagnostic development, disease, and food security!
If you're interested in any of the projects or would like to discuss PhDs in general, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Although challenging, it's incredibly rewarding!
Dr Rheinallt Jones (he/him) BVMS Cert AVP PhD MRCVS
Lecturer in Animal Nutrition
Research Lead Cochno Farm and Research Centre
School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine
College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences
University of Glasgow