World-leading rabies researcher awarded 2026 Plowright Prize

Professor Katie Hampson, of the University of Glasgow, has been awarded the 2026 Plowright Prize for her research on eliminating dog-mediated rabies and advancing global disease control strategies.

The biennial prize, awarded by RCVS Knowledge, recognises individuals in Europe or the Commonwealth who have made significant contributions to controlling or eradicating infectious diseases in animals.

Hampson’s work has helped shape international efforts to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies, including contributions to the ‘Zero-by-30’ global strategy. Her research combines field epidemiology, contact tracing and modelling of rabies transmission in large dog populations, alongside capacity-building for disease surveillance and control in endemic regions.

A key element of her work has been a long-term study tracking rabies spread in a population of around 80,000 dogs, providing one of the most detailed datasets of its kind. Her wider One Health collaborations have supported training and mentorship for scientists and public health teams across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Rabies remains a major public health issue in parts of the Global South, where it is almost always transmitted through dog bites. The disease causes thousands of human deaths each year, despite being preventable through vaccination and coordinated animal health programmes.

Hampson said she plans to use the £100,000 prize to support rabies elimination efforts in endemic regions, with a focus on strengthening One Health networks, training programmes and vaccination strategies.

“I am truly delighted to be awarded the Plowright Prize,” she said. “I hope it will help accelerate progress towards rabies elimination and support communities directly affected by the disease.”

Katie Mantell, Chief Executive of RCVS Knowledge, said Hampson’s work stood out for its global influence and impact on both research and on-the-ground disease control.

Previous recipients of the Plowright Prize include researchers working on cattle, poultry and antimicrobial resistance, reflecting its focus on impactful veterinary science across species and diseases.

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