Jon graduated from the RVC in 2011 with degrees in both Veterinary Sciences and Veterinary Medicine. After several years in small, exotic and wildlife animal veterinary practice, he gained an MSc in Wild Animal Health, which led onto a PhD studying the innate immune system of Asian elephants. Clearly enjoying the diversity that the veterinary profession has to offer, Jon joined the VMD in 2021 as part of the team responsible for assessing applications for pharmaceutical veterinary medicinal products and clinical trials of veterinary medicines. He is also involved in the VMD’s internal pharmaceuticals in the environment (PiE) group. Jon still undertakes part time small animal first opinion practice and has a strong interest in engaging with veterinary professionals to inform them of the little-known but crucial ‘behind-the-scenes’ work of the VMD, and how it impacts daily life in practice.