Prof James Gilkerson

BVSc, BSc(Vet), PhD

Professor James Gilkerson is a name that resonates across the global veterinary community, not only as a leader in equine infectious disease research but also as a dedicated educator, policy influencer, and champion for antimicrobial stewardship.

As Professor of Veterinary Microbiology and Director of the Centre for Equine Infectious Disease at the University of Melbourne, Gilkerson has spent decades advancing our understanding of animal health with an unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and public good.

Academic Roots and Early Focus

Prof. James Gilkerson began his distinguished veterinary journey at the University of Sydney, earning a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc), a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Medicine (BSc Vet), and later, a PhD in Veterinary Virology.

His doctoral work, focused on the epidemiology of equine herpesviruses, laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong pursuit of protecting horses and other animals from infectious disease threats.

Championing Equine Health

At the University of Melbourne, Prof. Gilkerson leads Australia’s preeminent centre for equine infectious disease. His research has been instrumental in identifying and managing key infectious threats affecting horses, helping to shape national policy and clinical practices alike.

Under his direction, the Centre has become a critical node of collaboration, innovation, and international exchange in equine veterinary science.

Prof. Gilkerson’s contributions extend beyond the lab. He has served as President of Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA) and the Victorian Division of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), guiding professional development and advocacy efforts that have strengthened the veterinary field across the country.

Expanding Horizons: Stewardship, Poultry, and Wildlife

While equine disease remains a core passion, Prof. Gilkerson has expanded his focus to address some of the most pressing challenges in veterinary and public health.

As a key contributor to the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship at the University of Melbourne, he plays an essential role in shaping responsible antimicrobial use in animal care, a critical issue in the global fight against antibiotic resistance.

His research portfolio also includes poultry health and an increasing body of work in wildlife disease, underscoring his versatility as a scientist and his holistic understanding of One Health, the intersection of human, animal, and environmental well-being.

Recognised Excellence

Prof. Gilkerson’s dedication and impact have earned him widespread recognition. He received the prestigious AVA President’s Prize in 2008 and was named a Fellow of the Australian Veterinary Association in 2009, one of the Association’s highest honors. In 2020, his international contributions were celebrated when he was awarded the Spirit of SAEVA Award by the South African Equine Veterinary Association.

More recently, he was appointed Vice President of the AVA Board in 2024, following a two-year term as the EVA’s nominee. These roles highlight his influence not just as a researcher and clinician, but as a strategic leader shaping the future of veterinary science.

A Trusted Voice for the Profession

Whether delivering keynote addresses, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, or mentoring the next generation of veterinarians, Prof. James Gilkerson is known for his clarity, compassion, and rigor. With over two decades of academic leadership and a global perspective shaped by collaboration, his voice remains vital to conversations around animal disease management, veterinary policy, and scientific integrity.

Why Prof. James Gilkerson Matters

In a time where infectious disease threats are increasingly crossing species and borders, leaders like Prof. James Gilkerson are more essential than ever. His work doesn’t just safeguard animal populations — it supports global biosecurity, informs evidence-based veterinary practices, and ensures the profession remains equipped for the challenges ahead.

For those seeking a speaker who can blend scientific depth with practical insight, global context, and an unmistakable passion for animal health, Prof. James Gilkerson stands in a class of his own.