Christopher Thomson

Former ISU Student Awarded 2013 AMP / Michael D. Hayre Fellowship in Public Outreach Chris Thomson, a former Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences student, has been awarded the 2013 AMP/Michael D. Hayre Fellowship in Public Outreach. Chris’ program will focus on student-to-student outreach at veterinary schools and conferences across America. Through campus presentations, workshops, and media initiatives via veterinary education programs throughout America, Chris will build and maintain informed understanding and acceptance of the importance of animals to biomedical research. The project, “The Veterinary Impact,” will also feature a robust website and series of posters. Chris graduated from Iowa State University with degrees in Animal Science and International Agriculture. While at ISU, Chris got his start in research from working in the labs of Dr. Matthew Ellinwood. Chris assisted with the research testing an enzyme replacement therapy for mucopolysaccharidosis disease. "Coming to ISU, I had no interest in a future in research. It wasn't until meeting with Dr. Ellinwood that I began to see the incredible opportunities surrounding the world of biomedical research," said Mr. Thomson. "I owe a majority of my current involvements to the initial encouragements through his lab." “All students preparing for careers in veterinary medicine should understand how integral research animals are to medical advances, critical to both people and animals. Chris’ program will highlight opportunities for careers in research animal medicine – and give those students who choose private practice a new appreciation for the development of the treatments that they will use to heal animals throughout their professional lives,” said Jacquie Calnan, President of Americans for Medical Progress. “We at AMP are delighted to welcome Chris and assist him in this outreach. The Michael D. Hayre Fellowship in Public Outreach, established by Americans for Medical Progress in 2008, promotes peer education about humane and responsible animal research among students and young adults aged 18-30. Named in memory of AMP's former Chairman, Michael D. Hayre, DVM, DACLAM, the fellowship provides support for outreach and advocacy projects in the United States.