WSAVA Michael J. Day Scholarship

Name: WSAVA Michael J. Day Scholarship

Award Amount: Up to $15,000

Information And Eligibility:
The WSAVA Michael J. Day Scholarship is an internationally recognized research scholarship designed to advance global knowledge in small companion animal infectious diseases, clinical vaccinology, and immunology. Established in memory of Emeritus Professor Michael J. Day, this scholarship honors his extraordinary contributions to veterinary science, education, and evidence-based vaccination practices worldwide. The program is administered by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and supported by MSD Animal Health, a long-standing partner of the WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group.

Professor Day served as Chair of the WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group from 2009 to 2020 and was instrumental in transforming vaccination standards for companion animals across the globe. His work helped educate thousands of veterinarians and improved the health and welfare of millions of pets. This scholarship was created to continue his legacy by encouraging high-quality, student-led research that contributes meaningfully to clinical practice, public trust, and animal welfare.

The scholarship supports veterinary students who are studying toward a registrable veterinary degree and wish to undertake a focused research project in companion animal infectious disease, vaccinology, or immunology. Projects are typically completed within one year, though extensions of up to two years may be approved in special circumstances. During the project period, the successful applicant is expected to spend approximately 8 to 12 weeks actively engaged in research at a host university or academic institution of their choosing, which may include their home veterinary school.

Funding of up to $15,000 may be used to cover direct research costs such as reagents and consumables, as well as essential travel-related expenses including flights, visas, health insurance, and accommodation. Other incidental costs are generally the responsibility of the student. Funds are awarded directly to support the execution of the approved research project, making this scholarship particularly valuable for students seeking international or cross-institutional research experience.

Applications are evaluated through a highly competitive, merit-based review process conducted by members of the WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group, the WSAVA Scientific Committee, and representatives from MSD Animal Health. Reviewers assess the scientific quality, feasibility, originality, and clinical relevance of the proposed project, as well as its potential societal and animal welfare impact. Projects that simply assess the efficacy or safety of licensed medicines are discouraged.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a veterinary student enrolled in an accredited veterinary school within a country that has a WSAVA member association.
• Must be pursuing a registrable veterinary degree such as DVM or BVSc.
• Must identify a principal academic supervisor prior to application.
• Must be able to commit to a minimum of 8–12 weeks of active research.
• Must be able to travel internationally, if required.

Application Requirements:

• Completed application form submitted in English.
• Research proposal including aims, methods, timeline, and budget.
• Project summary of no more than 500 words.
• Curricula vitae of the student applicant and principal supervisor.
• Letter of good standing from the Dean or Head of the veterinary school.

Deadline: June

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