Page 42 - Eclipse - Autumn 2015

Class notes & news from you
Tammy Shadbolt (2013)
Tammy graduated from the RVC with an MSc in Wild Animal Health, we spoke to her about her career.
What are you doing now?
I am currently completing a PhD on Tasmanian devil facial tumour disease based at the RVC and in collaboration with the University of Tasmania, Australia. It is an absolute privilege to be able to work with this unique endangered animal in the wild and to contribute to research into this devastating novel transmissible cancer. I now also teach part time at the RVC and Zoological Society of London (ZSL) tutoring and facilitating on the undergraduate BVetMed courses and on the MSc in Wild Animal Health! At weekends I continue to work in private clinical practice in north London and am also a regular volunteer veterinary surgeon for the Worldwide Veterinary Service. Research, teaching and practice complement each other fantastically and I passionately enjoy the diversity of my work.
What did you think of the teaching staff on the course?
The number of expert external lecturers associated with the MSc courses in Wild Animal Health and Wild Animal Biology is outstanding. The diversity and quality of the lectures, practicals and eld trips not only fostered greater breadth and depth of understanding but also prepares graduates for a wide variety of careers thereafter.
What did you think of the learning and research facilities at the RVC?
The RVC offered a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Taught material was delivered through a combination of lectures, small group problem-based-learning sessions, practical rotations and via the RVC’s virtual learning environment. There was a strong emphasis on empowering students to direct their own learning and to develop independent thought through completion of the research project.
Has the course at the RVC supported your career goals as you had hoped?
Absolutely! My fascination with Tasmanian devil facial tumour was ignited whilst working as a veterinary surgeon in Australia in 2012. Completing the MSc in Wild Animal Health gave me the con dence to pursue this interest and a platform from which to develop a successful international collaboration and PhD research proposal. I am indebted to all the fantastic scientists and vets at the RVC, ZSL and externally who continue to support me in this hugely rewarding work.
We love to hear about what you have been up to since leaving the RVC ......
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