Dr David Williams

Dr Williams began his veterinary career in 1988, qualifying from Cambridge, knowing he wanted to concentrate on ophthalmology, with a foundation in animal welfare and ethics. He began as an assistant in the ophthalmology unit in the Animal Health Trust, then undertook a PhD in ocular immunology at the RVC, continuing to a postdoctoral position in ocular pharmacology there. He moved back to the AHT but left at the turn of the Millennium working part time at Cambridge and also getting a taste of general practice for 18 months. From there he set up an ambulatory referral service in ophthalmology for nearby clinics, also providing a clinical and research input at Cambridge where he became a Fellow and director of studies at St John's College. He studied for his FRCVS working on ocular abnormalities in farmed halibut, associated with his interest in exotic animal ophthalmology, and a VetMD at Cambridge on age-related cataract. Given his continuing interest in animal welfare and ethics he took the CertWEL and later became a diplomate of the ECAWBM. He is also passionate about veterinary education and took an MEd, now soon to complete a EdD focussing on the teaching of ethics to veterinary students. His faith drives his interests in animal and student welfare and he is studying for licensed lay ministry in the church of England just in case he might have any spare time left over!