The award will honour the lead author of the best original research paper published over the past two years in the WVPA journal Avian Pathology.

The award was established in 1973 in memory of Dr Bart Rispens, who is known worldwide for the development of the CVI-988 vaccine to protect poultry against Marek’s disease. Marek’s disease affects young chickens all over the world and can result in tumors, paralysis and even death.

MSD Animal Health has sponsored the Dr Bart Rispens Research award since 2007 and has recently committed to supporting the award until 2025.

“We are grateful for MSD Animal Health’s continued support of the Dr Bart Rispens Research Award,” said WVPA’s Nigel Horrox.

“This important award honours the legacy of Dr Rispens in the best way possible – by continuing to foster the spirit of innovation that is exemplified by his work in poultry health.”

The award recipient will be selected by a committee that includes representatives from the Board of the WVPA, Avian Pathology and MSD Animal Health, as well as four appointed scientists. The winner will receive the Dr Bart Rispens Research Award medallion, as well as a monetary gift.

“MSD Animal Health is pleased to present the Dr Bart Rispens Research Award in partnership with the WVPA,” said Dr Rik Koopman, global technical director, MSD Animal Health.

“We are committed to improving the health and performance of poultry, and are proud to support and honour researchers that are making important advances in poultry health.”