معرفی
Carl Kirker-Head is a Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine and a Professor in Biomedical Engineering. He joined Tufts University in 1987, progressing through academic ranks to his current position. He also holds the Marilyn M. Simpson Chair in Equine Medicine and serves as associate chair for the Department of Clinical Sciences.
His educational background includes a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Arts from Cambridge University. He is board-certified as a Diplomate of both the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) and the European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS).
Dr. Kirker-Head's research spans two primary domains:
- Orthopedics: Bone and cartilage growth and remodeling, skeletal tissue engineering, bone biomechanics, ligament and tendon physiology, orthopedic device development, animal models of orthopedic disease, and equine podiatry
- Cardiovascular: Percutaneous treatment of cardiac disease, animal models of cardiac disease, and interventional cardiology
His recent publications (2020-2021) focus on novel legwear for horses with detailed biomechanical analyses, continuing his longstanding research in equine orthopedics and biomechanics. His work demonstrates a progression from basic tissue engineering studies to applied clinical solutions for equine patients.
Dr. Kirker-Head has secured over four million dollars in research funding as principal investigator, with 70% industry-sponsored. His grants support research on orthopedic databases, equine rehabilitation devices, and critical bone defect models.
He actively teaches multiple courses including Core Equine & Camelid Medicine & Surgery, Clinical Surgery Rotation, and Skeletal Pathobiology. His dual appointment reflects his interdisciplinary approach to veterinary medicine and engineering solutions.
Professional activities include international conference presentations, a patent for a Limb Protection device, and leadership roles including Vice-President of the University Faculty Senate. He also owns Ross Haven Farm, an equine boarding and rehabilitation center, and has founded/consulted for multiple biotech companies.
