Josh Slater
University of Melbourne
Rate Professor Josh Slater
Brings real-world relevance to learning.
Encourages students to think independently.
Always fair, encouraging, and motivating.
Encourages students to think independently.
Great Professor!
About Josh
Professor Josh Slater serves as Professor of Veterinary Medicine and Head of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Faculty of Science. He graduated with a BVM&S from the University of Edinburgh in 1985, followed by four years in equine practice. He then completed a residency and PhD in equine infectious diseases at the University of Cambridge in 1994, advancing to lecturer and senior lecturer in equine medicine. In 2005, he became Professor of Equine Clinical Studies at the Royal Veterinary College, London, before joining the University of Melbourne in late 2018 in his current role.
A Diplomate of the European College of Equine Internal Medicine (DipECEIM) and MRCVS, Slater's research centers on equine infectious diseases. He investigates how viral and bacterial pathogens, such as herpesviruses and streptococci, cause disease via virulence genetics and host immune responses. His findings have shaped international equine biosecurity procedures, advanced disease detection, control measures, diagnostics, and vaccine development. Key publications include the chapter 'Equine Herpesviruses' (2007), 'Horse sector participants' attitudes towards animal sentience, welfare, and well-being' (2024), 'Spatiotemporal patterns in British racing and equestrian sports: Implications for pathogen transmission' (2025), and studies on antimicrobial use and horse welfare practices. His work has garnered 3,373 citations with an h-index of 32.
Slater has provided exemplary leadership as past President of the British Equine Veterinary Association, European College of Equine Internal Medicine, and Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations. He chaired the Horse Trust, served as biosecurity advisor for the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Equestrian Games and the 2014 World Equestrian Games, co-founded BARTA, and acts as veterinary representative on the UK National Fire Chiefs Council Animal Rescue Practitioner Forum. These accomplishments underscore his profound impact on equine veterinary medicine, welfare, and global biosecurity.
Professional Email: jdslater@unimelb.edu.au