The need for veterinarians in biomedical research

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Biomedical Research
• Public Health

Background:

• A significant shortage of veterinarians exists in the United States.
• This deficit impacts critical areas such as biomedical research and public health.
• Societal needs are not being met due to insufficient veterinary professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the inadequacy of the current veterinarian workforce for national needs.
• To identify key areas where veterinary expertise is most needed.
• To propose solutions for increasing the number of veterinarians in biomedical research.

Main Methods:

• The study is a review and analysis of the current veterinary workforce landscape.
• It identifies critical sectors with unmet needs for veterinary professionals.
• It synthesizes expert opinion and identifies necessary changes in education and support.

Main Results:

• Greatest needs are in translational medical research, veterinary pathology, laboratory-animal medicine, emerging infectious diseases, public health, academic medicine, and production-animal medicine.
• Veterinarians possess unique skills valuable for interdisciplinary research teams in both animal and human health.
• There is a widespread shortage of graduate veterinarians across private practice, academia, government, and industry.

Conclusions:

• Increasing veterinarians in biomedical research requires creative solutions, priority shifts, and enhanced communication.
• Veterinary professional curricula need to integrate research education and highlight alternative careers.
• Support for junior faculty and improved graduate programs are essential for the profession's role in biomedical research.