David Sargan

Dr. David Sargan is an Associate Professor in Molecular Pathology at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, where he also serves as Director of Graduate Education and Chair of the Training Committee for both the BBSRC Cambridge Bioscience DTP and SBS Cambridge Bioscience DTP.

His research program focuses on comparative genetics of disease using canine models, with particular emphasis on understanding how genetic disorders in dogs can inform human medical conditions while simultaneously improving veterinary care and breeding practices. Dr. Sargan's work spans several interconnected research domains:

• Comparative genetics of inherited diseases in companion animals
• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) pathogenesis and genetics
• Breed-specific predisposition to cancers
• Pathogenesis of retinal and other ocular inherited diseases
• Secondary epigenetic and somatic genetic changes in complex inherited diseases
• Technical development of genetic mapping and analysis methods

As a principal investigator, Dr. Sargan leads research within the Cambridge BOAS Research Group, which has investigated respiratory disorders in brachycephalic breeds for over a decade using non-invasive techniques like whole-body barometric plethysmography. His research aims to define the genetic basis of BOAS to improve long-term breed health while optimizing current treatment options through evidence-based medicine.

Dr. Sargan's research is supported by funding from the Isaac Newton Trust and the Kennel Club Charitable Trust. He actively supervises PhD students and has contributed to public discourse on canine health with an opinion piece titled 'How to save inbred, short-faced dogs such as pugs and bulldogs from poor health.' His collaborative network includes researchers such as Dr. Cathryn Mellersh, Dr. Eleanor Raffan, Dr. Fernando Constantino-Casas, Dr. Jane Dobson, and Dr. Sally Ricketts.