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New chair of RVC College appointed
“I am honoured to take on the role as chair of the RVC Council next year” – Lord Kakkar.
Lord Kakkar will take on the role in 2025.

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has appointed Lord Kakkar as the new chair of RVC Council.

He will succeed Baroness Young of Old Scone next year in leading the RVC’s governing body. The Council focuses on the veterinary school’s strategy and compliance requirements, risk and accountability.

A surgeon, academic, and cross-bench peer, Lord Kakkar currently holds several prominent roles, including emeritus professor of surgery at University College London, chair of King's Health Partners, chancellor of the University of Lincoln, and director of the Thrombosis Research Institute.

He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2022 for his contributions to healthcare and public service. Earlier this year, he was appointed Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of The Garter.

Lord Kakkar said: “I am honoured to take on the role as chair of the RVC Council next year. The RVC is a truly outstanding institution, and it will be a privilege to meet and work alongside such a talented and dedicated team of staff and students.”

Stuart Reid, principal of the RVC, added: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Lord Kakkar and look forward to welcoming him to Council next year. Lord Kakkar’s experience is extensive and is matched by his passion for advancing knowledge through world-class research, providing high quality and groundbreaking clinical services and educating the future generations of vets, scientists and researchers.

“Lord Kakkar joins us at an exciting time for the institution and I know we will benefit from his exceptional knowledge and experience. He takes over from Baroness Young who has led Council with dedication and commitment over the last five years for which we extend a heartfelt thank you.”

Image © Royal Veterinary College

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

Click here for more...
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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.