Plowright prize nominations sought for infectious diseases fight
Nominations are now being sought for the biennial Plowright Prize, awarded for significant contributions to the eradication of infectious diseases.
The award, named in memory of eminent veterinary virologist Walter Plowright (above left) and his wife, Dorothy Plowright, offers £75,000 to recognise an individual working in Europe or the Commonwealth who has made a significant impact on the control, management and eradication of infectious diseases of animals.
Walter Plowright (1923-2010) was an acclaimed veterinary scientist whose major breakthrough in the battle against rinderpest – the tissue culture rinderpest vaccine (TCRV) – provided the key to eliminating the disease.
In the year of Walter’s death, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations officially announced the complete eradication of the disease, only the second such feat in human history, alongside smallpox.
Eligible candidates’ work must demonstrate animal, humanitarian or economic benefit and the prize money is intended to support the individual’s ongoing work in the field.
‘Vital research’
Potential recipients of the prize include veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and research scientists. Awardees may be working in a research setting, in academia, in practice or in other related sectors. Individuals must be nominated for the award, and the prize is not open to organisations.
Executive Director of RCVS Knowledge Chris Gush said: “We are delighted to open the second Plowright Prize in memory of one of the world’s most exceptional veterinary surgeons and scientists, and in celebration of decades of dedication to an area of substantial societal significance.
“We look forward to receiving nominations from throughout Europe and the Commonwealth that will further vital research in area of infectious disease within the veterinary profession, benefiting animals, the public and society worldwide.”
Potential recipients of the prize include veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and research scientists. Awardees may be working in a research setting, in academia, in practice or in other related sectors. Individuals must be nominated for the award, and the prize is not open to organisations.”
Last year’s winner was Professor Ivan Morrison, who is Professor of Immunology at The Roslin Institute Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, for his research into creating a cost-effective vaccine for the cattle disease East Coast Fever.
Full criteria for the Plowright Prize can be found on the RCVS Knowledge website.
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