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RCVS honours vet’s commitment to fish welfare
Professor Richards
Professor Randolph Richards CBE.

Professor Richards praised for his contributions to the field of aquaculture

A renowned vet who has dedicated his life to advocating the importance of fish health and welfare is to be presented with the Queen’s Medal - the highest honour that the RCVS can award.

Professor Randolph Richards CBE, an Emeritus Professor at the Institute of Aquaculture at the University of Stirling, was nominated by by fellow veterinary surgeon,  Dr Peter Jeffries.

Dr Jeffries praised professor Richards for his contributions to the field of aquaculture, fish health and welfare, as well as his active role in representing the veterinary profession, industry, academia and international associations.

“I’m absolutely delighted and feel incredibly honoured to be the recipient of the RCVS Queen’s Medal,” said Professor Richards. “It is particularly satisfying to receive this recognition from my veterinary peers.”

The Queen’s Medal is open to all members of the RCVS and can be awarded to one veterinary surgeon each year.

“We are proud to to present Professor Richards with this recognition of his contributions to veterinary excellence," commented Dr Bradley Viner, president of the RCVS.

“His commitment to foregrounding fish health and welfare in particular is truly exemplary, and the bestowing of the Queen’s Medal is a testament to the value of his work.”

Dr Jeffries’ nomination was supported by Professor Julie Fitzpatrick OBE, scientific director and chief executive of the Moredun Research Institute, and Professor Peter Wells, honorary professor of veterinary pharmacology and therapeutics at the University of Nottingham.

Professor Richards will receive his medal at RCVS Day on Friday, 15 July at the Royal Institute of British Architects.  

Image (C) Denny Conway of the Institute of Aquaculture

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VMD invites students to apply for EMS placement

News Story 1
 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.

Students in their clinical years of study have until 28 February to apply for the placement, which takes place at the VMD's offices in Addlestone, Surrey, from 6-10 July 2026.

Through a mixture of lectures and workshops, the placement will explore how veterinary medicines are authorised, non-clinical career opportunities, and other important aspects of the VMD's work.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS members invited to question Council candidates

RCVS members have been invited to submit questions to candidates for this year's RCVS Council election.

With 15 candidates standing for three available positions, vets have been invited to submit a question of their choosing before voting starts. These questions will be collated, with each candidate answering one question of their choice.

It is recommended that members read the candidates' biographies and statements before submitting questions. One question per member can be submitted to vetvote26@rcvs.org.uk before Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

The RCVS Council election is due to start in March.

With only two candidates for two positions on the VN Council, there will be no VN Council elections this year. Meghan Conroy RVN and Lauren Hargrave RVN will begin their three year terms at RCVS' AGM in July.