About
Darrell Abernethy is a Professor and the founding Head & Chair of the School of Veterinary Science at Aberystwyth University, the first veterinary school in Wales, established in partnership with the Royal Veterinary College. He has held leadership roles including Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria and Head of the Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases. His career spans over three decades in veterinary epidemiology, public health, and wildlife conservation.
- University: Aberystwyth University
- School: School of Veterinary Science
- Department: Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases
- Academic Rank: Professor
- Email: daa47@aber.ac.uk
His research is deeply interdisciplinary, focusing on bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis, wildlife-poverty linkages, and avian and ecosystem health. He investigates zoonotic disease transmission, develops control frameworks, and explores how rural communities interact with wildlife. He has established international collaborations on the health of endangered birds, particularly African penguins and vultures.
The recent publications reflect a strong trend in zoonotic disease epidemiology, wildlife health surveillance, and One Health applications. Topics include rabies in Mozambique, avian influenza in seabirds, brucellosis in cattle and wildlife, and vaccine development for penguins. The work combines field epidemiology, molecular diagnostics, and policy engagement.
Scientific Contributions:
- Lead researcher on bovine TB and brucellosis control strategies.
- Established a multidisciplinary platform for avian health research.
- Advises Welsh Government on veterinary policy.
- Contributor to UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly poverty and health.
He mentors several students and leads externally funded projects, including those with the Welsh Government and international partners. His work bridges veterinary science, public health, conservation, and social science, emphasizing real-world impact through training, policy, and community engagement. He is actively involved in media and public discourse on global health and wildlife conservation.
Research fields
