Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

RVC professor scoops prestigious research award
Professor Harriet Syme.

Professor Harriet Syme named winner of Petplan Charitable Trust Scientific Award 2020.

Royal Veterinary College (RVC) Professor Harriet Syme has won a prestigious award for her outstanding contributions to veterinary research.

Professor Syme was named winner of the Petplan Charitable Trust Scientific Award 2020, which honours the work carried out by organisations and individuals to further the health and welfare of companion animals. The award is presented annually to a scientist, selected from nominations submitted by the UK's eight veterinary schools and the Animal Health Trust (AHT).

Professor Syme's research concentrates on the pathophysiology and epidemiology of feline hyperthyroidism and the endocrinological diseases that lead to hypertension in cats. Hypertension and hyperthyroidism are common conditions that particularly affect older cats, and Dr Syme's work has advanced clinical practice in their diagnosis and management.

Professor Syme has also made contributions to RVC's research into feline chronic kidney disease and the endocrinology of bone mineral disturbances associated with this common feline medical condition.

Commenting on her award, Professor Syme said: “I am thrilled to receive this award. It is made particularly special by the fact I was nominated by my peers.

“It is important to emphasise though that research is a team effort, and I am just one of many people, vets and nurses alike, working together at the RVC to try to further our understanding of the diseases that old cats get so that we can improve their quality of life.”

RVC vice-principal for research and innovation, Professor Jonathan Elliott, said: “We are delighted that Professor Syme has won this prestigious award. Her research has made such a difference to the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term monitoring of common medical problems in both dogs and cats.

“On top of this, she is also a great inspiration to her colleagues and students, particularly those who have benefitted from her mentoring and supervision over the years, many of whom are now winning research funding and leading their own research projects from clinically active posts in veterinary schools.”

Image (C) RVC.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.