Board

  • Dr. Pierre Cadot

    General Director

  • Dr. Dr.h.c. Hans-Joachim Koch

    Veterinary Hospital in Birkenfeld, Germany.

  • Dr. Eric Tschirhart

    Professor of Physiology, University of Luxembourg.

  • Dr. Marc Vandevelde

    Veterinary School in Berne, Switzerland

Branch coordinators

  • Program Coordinator : Jean-Pierre Vaillancourt, DMV, MSc, PhD, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Montreal

  • Poultry Health and Production branch coordinator : Vincent Guyonnet, DVM, Ph.D, Dipl. ACPV.

  • Aquaculture coordinator : Alexandre Beljean, DVM

Our Poultry Course Masters

Dr. Jean-Pierre Vaillancourt

  • Dr. Jean-Pierre Vaillancourt holds a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and a Master's in Clinical Sciences from the Université de Montréal, as well as a Doctorate in Population Medicine from the University of Minnesota. He has extensive experience in applied sciences. Dr. Vaillancourt is distinguished as a specialist in biosecurity and infectious disease control strategies. In 2004, he was the very first recipient of the Lamplighter Award from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, honoring his outstanding contributions to the American poultry industry and his research on diseases of importance to the industry.

    Contribution to WVEPAH

    How can participation in your course contribute to the professional advancement of poultry industry experts?

    ''Unlike veterinarians who are mostly in the field, I have the time to investigate and validate useful and up-to-date information regarding diagnostic approaches and interventions, both at the farm level and regionally.''

Dr. Hilde Van Meirhaeghe

  • Dr. Hilde Van Meirhaeghe, DVM, earned her Veterinary Medicine Doctorate from the University of Ghent in 1982. Currently the President of the Belgian Hatcheries Association, she also serves as a global Poultry Consultant for Vetworks, offering technical support to poultry integrations and pharmaceutical industries worldwide. She has contributed as an advisor and trainer in the African Livestock Productivity & Health Advancement (ALPHA), initiative funded by Bill & Melinda Gates in Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda.

    She also has been involved on study projects related to hygiene, food safety, and health issues with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Ghent University in Ghent and ILVO (Instituut voor Landbouw, Visserij- en Voedingsonderzoek). Her multifaceted expertise reflects a deep dedication to advancing global poultry health.

    Seize the chance to benefit from her extensive knowledge! Notably, she is a Course Master in Spanish, English, and French at WVEPAH.

Dr. Paulo Raffi

  • With over 30 years of experience in the poultry sector, Dr. Paulo Raffi stands out as a Technical Specialist. He holds specializations in Economics, Strategic Policies, Quality, and Productivity, along with an MBA in Agribusiness.

    Having accumulated 13 years of experience in leading farms such as Ross, Cobb, and Hybro, Paulo has provided services to end customers, focusing on production practices and food safety in Latin America. In the last 5 years, he has worked as a poultry specialist for the Diamond V company within the Cargill group in Brazil & Latin America. Since 2023, he has been a professor in the Postgraduate Program in Poultry Management, Health, and Production (PPGVET) at the Faculty of Ampere – PR.

    Paulo was recognized as one of the 100 most influential figures in Brazilian Poultry Farming by Aveworld magazine in July/August 2015. Currently, he has over 33,000 followers on LinkedIn.

Dr. Stéphane Lemière

  • Stéphane Lemière brings over three decades of expertise in the field of avian health and management. Currently serving as the Global Technical Director for Avian at Boehringer Ingelheim, Stéphane oversees strategic initiatives and technical advancements to enhance avian health worldwide. His industry journey began in 1993 at Merial, where he ensured regulatory compliance and market access for avian products, rising through roles including Product Development and Technical Manager in France. Prior to his time at Merial, graduated in 1989 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Ecole nationale vétérinaire de Lyon. His passion for avian health and welfare led him to pursue various managerial positions in the industry, where he consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and excellence. With a career spanning multiple continents and encompassing diverse roles, Stéphane has established himself as a respected leader and expert in avian health. His dedication to advancing the field and improving outcomes for poultry producers globally is evident in his longstanding contributions to the industry.

Dr. Ian Rubinoff

  • Ian Rubinoff is a veterinary professional specializing in poultry health, currently serving as Director of Sales at Hy-Line North America L.L.C. With over a decade of global experience, he provides sales and technical support for various aspects of poultry health, including management, nutrition, data analysis, vaccination programs, welfare, and biosecurity. He is also a frequent presenter at customer seminars, industry meetings, university classes for undergraduate and graduate students, and scientific symposiums. He has completed his DVM/MPH degree at the University of Minnesota from 2005 to 2009, solidifying his foundation in veterinary medicine and public health. His expertise and dedication make him a valuable asset to the veterinary community and poultry producers worldwide.

Dr. Eric Gingerich

  • Eric Gingerich DVM, is an accomplished professional in the field of poultry health, with over 14 years of experience as a Technical Services Specialist at Diamond V, a leading provider of postbiotic feed additives for livestock and poultry. Eric earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Purdue University in 1977 and his expertise and dedication have earned him recognition as a respected member of the American Association of Avian Pathologists, where he has been actively involved for nearly five decades. With his extensive knowledge, experience, and commitment to advancing the poultry industry, Eric Gingerich continues to play a vital role in promoting the health, welfare, and productivity of poultry operations worldwide.

Dr. Mieke Matthijs

  • Mieke Matthijs, DVM, PhD, is a professional in the field of veterinary medicine, with a wealth of experience spanning over two decades. She embarked on her academic journey at Universiteit Gent, where she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1998. Following her passion for advancing veterinary science, Mieke pursued further studies and completed her PhD at the University of Utrecht in 2011. Throughout her career, Mieke has held various significant roles, including serving as an Associate Professor at Utrecht University, a position she has held since 2022. In this capacity, she leads the Sustainable Poultry Health section within the Division of Farm Animal Health, Department of Population Health Science at the Veterinary Faculty. Mieke's expertise extends to teaching both Master and Bachelor students in Veterinary Science, with a focus on poultry management and disease control. Beyond her academic pursuits, Mieke has played a pivotal role in the European College of Poultry Veterinary Science (ECPVS), serving as Treasurer from October 2016 to November 2022. Her contributions to the organization have been instrumental in fostering collaboration and advancing standards in poultry veterinary science across Europe. Mieke’s dedication to education and research extends globally, as she actively engages in the education of veterinarians worldwide. Her multifaceted expertise and leadership in the field make her a respected figure in both academic and professional circles. Furthermore, since 2023, Mieke has served as the Vice President of the ECPVS, further solidifying her leadership role within the organization.

Dr. Mike Petrik

  • Mike Petrik is a poultry welfare specialist with over two decades of experience in the industry. Currently serving as President of Petrik Veterinary Consultants Inc., Mike brings a wealth of knowledge in practical poultry production, science, and on animal welfare. With a strong background in local, provincial, and national policy development, Mike has spearheaded the development of welfare programs adopted nationwide.

    As Director of Technical Services at McKinley Hatchery Inc., Mike oversees all aspects of health and welfare for one of Ontario's leading laying hen hatcheries. He holds a Master's degree in Animal Welfare, with a specialization in Poultry, from the University of Guelph. Mike is known for his effective communication skills, dynamic presentation style, and collaborative approach to teamwork. His primary focus is bridging the gap between academia and practical farm application, ensuring progress while maintaining practicality in the poultry industry.

Dr. Samuel Roulleau

  • Samuel Roulleau is a Poultry Nutritionist with extensive experience in the field. Holding a Master of Science degree in Animal Nutrition from L'École Supérieure des Agricultures (ESA), Samuel has been actively involved in the poultry industry for over a decade. Currently serving as a Poultry Nutritionist at MG2MIX, Samuel provides technical support to feed manufacturers across France, West and North Africa, and the Middle East. He is responsible for overseeing poultry trials, formulating nutritional matrices, and developing new products and nutritional concepts. Additionally, Samuel leads the development of NIRs and XRF solutions. Prior to his current role, Samuel worked as a Poultry Advisor at Volailles de Challans, where he provided technical and sanitary support to poultry farmers, specializing in various avian free-range species. He was also responsible for the production of laying hens, including development, planning, and customer-supplier relationships. With his wealth of experience and expertise in poultry nutrition, Samuel is dedicated to advancing the industry and ensuring the health and welfare of poultry worldwide.

Dr. Robert Gauthier

  • Dr. Robert Gauthier is an experienced veterinary professional with a rich history of contributions to the industry. With a focus on veterinary medicine, vaccines, animal nutrition, and animal husbandry, Robert brings a wealth of expertise to his endeavors. Robert’s career spans several decades, starting as a Veterinary Diagnostician and Customer Service provider at K-Vet Limited. He later transitioned to positions of increasing responsibility, including Director of Veterinary Services and Animal Production at E.W. Caron & Nutribec Ltée and Vice-President of Research and Development at Jefo Nutrition Inc. In addition to his corporate roles, Robert has served as a Course Master at the World Veterinary Education in Production Animal Health (WVEPAH), contributing to the education and training of veterinary professionals worldwide. Robert holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal at St-Hyacinthe, Canada. He is also recognized as a Diplomate by the American College of Poultry Veterinarians. Throughout his career, Robert has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing veterinary medicine and improving animal health and welfare. His extensive experience and dedication make him a respected figure in the veterinary industry.

Dr. Cecilia Rosario Cortés

  • Dr. Cecilia Rosario Cortés is a distinguished academic figure, holding the position of Full Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry (FMVZ) at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). With a rich academic background, she obtained her degree as a Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry professional from FMVZ, UNAM. Continuing her academic journey, she pursued a Master's degree in Animal Production, specializing in Avian studies, also at FMVZ, UNAM. Her passion for research and academic excellence led her to attain a Doctorate in Animal Production and Health Sciences from the same institution. Dra. Cecilia's expertise lies in the field of avian health, with a particular focus on bacterial diseases. Her research endeavors encompass the study of virulence mechanisms in avian bacterial pathogens, addressing critical issues such as Avian Colibacillosis, Salmonellosis, and Antimicrobial Resistance. Through her dedicated research and scholarly contributions, she has significantly advanced our understanding of these diseases and their management within the avian health domain.

Our Aquaculture Course Masters

Dr. Francesca Carella

  • Francesca Carella is an Associate Researcher specializing in Comparative Pathology of Aquatic Organisms. With over 15 years of experience in the field, she focuses on the etiology, pathogenesis, pathology, and diagnosis of diseases affecting aquatic animal species. Her research has led to numerous publications on the first reports of various pathogens and parasites impacting the aquatic animal population of the Tyrrhenian Sea (Mediterranean), contributing significantly to understanding disease outbreaks. Francesca's expertise extends to the taxonomy and ecology of parasites in fish, shellfish, and corals, particularly in relation to environmental hazards and global climate changes. She also explores the dynamics between policy and industry in aquaculture. Additionally, she has worked on animals as potential models of neoplasia and developed image analysis tools for disease diagnosis. As a teacher at the University of Naples Federico II, Francesca instructs courses on Aquatic Animal Disease and Biosecurity and ONE health. Francesca's dedication to research and outreach is evident through her collaborations with prominent research centers specializing in aquatic animal diseases in Europe. Her effective communication skills cater to a broad range of audiences, including the scientific community, shellfish farmers, and the general public. Since 2015, Francesca has served as an Associate Editor for the Research Topic Fish and Shellfish Pathology in Frontiers, Section Marine Science and recently became Associate Editor of Frontiers in Veterinary Science. With her passion for aquatic pathology and commitment to advancing the field, Francesca is a valuable asset to the WVEPAH community.

Dr. Luca Bargelloni

  • Luca Bargelloni is a distinguished academic at the University of Padova, where he serves as a Full Professor of Animal Biotechnology. With a rich academic background, including a PhD in Evolutionary Biology and a BSc in Biology from the University of Padova, Luca brings extensive expertise to his role. His research interests span fish and shellfish genomics, immunology, and population genetics-genomics, leading to numerous publications in esteemed ISI journals. Securing substantial funding from prestigious institutions like the European Commission and the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio Padova e Rovigo, Luca's research aims to advance selective breeding in aquaculture and enhance Mediterranean aquaculture sustainability. Luca's extensive publication record and involvement in cutting-edge research projects demonstrate his significant contributions to the field. His dedication to advancing knowledge in animal genomics and aquaculture underscores his value to the scientific community. As a respected academic, Luca has made significant contributions to the field. He is currently the head of the Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science department. Since May 2024, he is also the coordinator of a large European research project (SHELLFISHBOOST), aimed at improving genetic selection of the most important shellfish species in Europe.

Dr. Alexandre Beljean

  • Veterinarian and expert specializing in Aquaculture with a focus on Health, Hygiene, and Biosecurity, Dr. Alexandre Beljean has shaped his life around water and fish. He directed his veterinary studies towards aquaculture and fish pathology at the Nantes School in France, then in Scotland for his veterinary thesis on the 'Stress' of farmed salmon. He stands out as a field veterinarian, as an innovative actor in the development and implementation of preventive strategies in Aquaculture, while contributing to the development and systematization of fish vaccination. He also contributed to the development of environmentally friendly hygiene products and the development of specifications for high-quality aquaculture products. His activity has allowed him to work in more than 25 countries in European, Nordic, Asian, South American, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean areas. In addition to his numerous achievements in the sector, Dr. Alexandre Beljean is the creator and developer of two companies specializing in fish, as well as the co-founder of a start-up in Aquaponics. As an inventor, he has also contributed to the development of innovative digital tools for auditing and evaluating limiting factors in aquaculture systems. His expertise demonstrates a global vision and in-depth knowledge of the aquaculture world.

Dr. Ignacio De Blas Giral

  • Dr. Ignacio de Blas Giral is currently Senior Lecturer at the University of Zaragoza, where he has been working since 2000 in different positions as researcher and teacher. With over 25 years of experience in academia, Dr. de Blas Giral has made significant contributions to the field of veterinary science. He earned his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Zaragoza in 2000, following his earlier degree in Veterinary Science, which he obtained in 1991 from the same institution. Throughout his academic career, Dr. de Blas Giral has demonstrated a strong commitment to research and education. He has been actively involved in teaching and mentoring students while also conducting groundbreaking research in veterinary epidemiology. Dr. de Blas Giral's research interests primarily revolve around aquatic epidemiology. He has developed and implemented epidemiological software including tools for epidemiological surveillance programs and has contributed to the development and validation of diagnostic tests and treatments in aquaculture. In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. de Blas Giral has served as an external advisor to governmental bodies such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of Spain, the European Commission, and OIRSA. He has also collaborated with renowned research institutions and aquaculture companies both nationally and internationally. With his wealth of experience and dedication to advancing knowledge in veterinary science and aquaculture, Dr. Ignacio de Blas Giral is a valuable Course Master for the Aquaculture Module at WVEPAH.

Dr. Kathleen Frish

  • Coming soon.

Dr. Bartolomeo Gorgoglione

  • Dr. Bartolomeo Gorgoglione, DVM, MSc, PhD, CertAQV, is a distinguished aquatic veterinarian and researcher studying pathogens and diseases of relevance for farmed and wild fish. He became a Veterinarian in Italy (Bari), subsequently specializing in Scotland (Master in Stirling, followed by Ph.D. in Aberdeen and CEFAS, England), and worked at VetMedUni in Vienna, Austria before moving to the US (Toledo and Dayton, Ohio). Since 2019 he leads the Fish Pathobiology and Immunology laboratory at Michigan State University, in East Lansing, Michigan. Dr. Bart reinvented and teaches the Clerkship in Aquatic Animal Medicine (PDI 636), uniquely providing updated knowledge on aquatic animals to DVM students. His expertise spans fish health and medicine, comparative pathobiology, and immunology. Dr. Gorgoglione's research focuses on polymicrobial infections, addressing issues about fish pathogens and disease management. As an Assistant Professor at MSU, he also mentors students and leads research projects funded by prestigious organizations. His leadership roles in professional associations, including serving as President of the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association in 2023, underscore his dedication to advancing knowledge in aquatic veterinary medicine and improving the aquatic veterinary education globally.

Dr. Olga Haenen

  • Olga Haenen, Dr.ir. (MSc, PhD), is a renowned expert in fish diseases with over 38 years of experience. She previously served as the head of the Dutch National Reference Laboratory for Fish, Shellfish, and Crustacean Diseases at Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR of WUR). Olga's expertise spans parasitic, bacterial, viral, and other diseases affecting various fish species. She is an Honorary Member of the European Association of Fish Pathologists (EAFP) since 2019 and has contributed significantly to international standards and guidelines for aquatic animal health. Olga has authored numerous scientific papers, books, and lectures on fish diseases and contact zoonoses from fish worldwide.

Dr. Patrick Kestemont

  • Patrick Kestemont is a distinguished Full Professor at the University of Namur (UNamur) and serves as President of the Research Institute Life, Earth & Environment while directing the Research Unit in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology. With a profound expertise in aquatic ecology, fish biology, ecotoxicology, and aquaculture, Patrick has supervised numerous Master theses and PhD students, fostering the next generation of scientists. He coordinates an International Master of Specialization in Aquatic Resources Management and Aquaculture, contributing to capacity building in developing countries. Patrick's research focuses on understanding how aquatic organisms adapt to changing environments, particularly in aquaculture. His pioneering laboratory, Environmental Physiology and Toxicology, employs molecular and physiological approaches to study stress responses and immune function. Patrick has authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications and serves as Editor-in-chief of Fish Physiology and Biochemistry, a pivotal role that underscores his leadership and influence in the scientific community. Beyond academia, Patrick lends his expertise as a consultant for esteemed organizations such as FAO and the Belgian Administration for Cooperation and Development, further solidifying his impact on a global scale.

Dr. Alain Lebreton

  • Coming soon.

Dr. Matthijs Metselaar

  • Dr. Matthijs Metselaar is a dedicated aquatic veterinarian and owner of Aquatic Vets Limited, a renowned veterinary clinic specializing in evidence-based fish medicine. Driven by a profound love for aquatic life, he established Aquatic Vets Limited as a global leader in providing exceptional veterinary services to aquatic species. With a DVM from the University of Utrecht and a PhD from the University of Stirling, UK, Dr. Metselaar is a diplomate of the European College of aquatic animal health and recognized as an RCVS Specialist in Fish Health & Production by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (UK), making him a distinguished authority in the field. At Aquatic Vets Limited, his commitment to evidence-based veterinary medicine ensures tailored treatment plans for every fish, promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and enhancing aquatic species welfare.

Dr. Amedeo Manfrin

  • Amedeo Manfrin is a seasoned expert in fish pathology, serving as the Head of the Fish Pathology Laboratory at the National Reference Lab for Fish and Crustacean Diseases in Italy. With over 20 years of experience, he specializes in aquaculture, fish/crustacean diseases, and vaccine production. Amedeo has contributed significantly to numerous national and international projects, focusing on fish health, welfare, and seafood safety. He is also skilled in project management, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. Amedeo is a prolific author with over 150 scientific publications and is actively involved in various working groups and platforms, including the European Medicine Agency and the EU Platform on Animal Welfare. His expertise and leadership make him a valuable asset to the aquaculture industry.

Dr. David Parfouru

  • David Parfouru is an expert in the field of aquaculture, with nearly 30 years of experience dedicated to sustainable development within the industry. As an independent consultant at BLEU BLANC VERT, he specializes in guiding aquaculture enterprises towards eco-responsible development. Previously, David worked in the rainbow trout industry in fresh water for over 25 years, managing operations that produced several thousand tons per year, from genetic selection to the transportation of live fish at commercial size to processing units. More recently, he served as the Director of Aquaculture Development and Sourcing at Delmas Poissons et Marée, Groupe Coopératif Maïsadour, where he spearheaded the creation of a new sustainable aquaculture breeding program using Recirculating Aquaculture Systems, covering the entire breeding cycle from egg to 3-4 kg. His expertise ranges from strategic planning and partnership building to the acquisition of production sites, modernization of breeding systems, operational management, team training, and stakeholder relations. With a background in research and development, he is committed to driving innovation and sustainability in the aquaculture industry. David's wealth of experience makes him a valuable Course Master for the Aquaculture Module at WVEPAH.

Dr. Andrew Shinn

  • Prof. Andrew Shinn is a dedicated expert in the field of aquatic animal health, particularly focused on parasites and their detection, taxonomy, management, and control within aquaculture systems. With a PhD in Veterinary Aquaculture from Stirling University, Scotland, Prof. Shinn possesses over 30 years of experience in aquatic parasitology and aquatic animal health. For the past ten years, he has been based in Thailand, working with INVE Thailand as part of the Benchmark group, conducting trials with whiteleg shrimp, tilapia, Asian seabass, grouper and other species. Additionally, Prof. Shinn holds positions as an Adjunct Professorial Research Fellow at James Cook University, Australia, and an honorary professorship at Stirling University, Scotland. As a co-founder and Overseas Director of the Fish Museum & Biodiversity Center in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, Prof. Shinn actively contributes to the advancement of aquatic animal health research and education. With a publication record of over 180 international peer-reviewed papers on parasites and aspects of aquatic animal health, Prof. Shinn is widely recognized for his expertise in the field. His passion for addressing global challenges in aquaculture underscores his commitment to advancing the health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

Dr. Anna Toffan

  • Highly experienced, Anna Toffan is an expert in aquatic animal virology, specializing in fish diseases. With over two decades of experience at the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, she currently leads the Aquatic Animal Virology Department and serves as the Head of the WOAH Reference Laboratory for Viral Encephalopathy and Retinopathy. Anna's expertise spans diagnostic activities, research on fish viruses, and in vivo experiments. She holds a Veterinary Medicine degree, a specialization in Fish Diseases, a PhD in Animal Health and she is diplomate at the European College of Aquatic Animal Health (ECAHH). Anna has authored numerous research articles and actively contributes to scientific working groups. Additionally, she participates in international and national projects aimed at improving aquaculture production and disease control. As a dedicated educator, Anna conducts courses on viral diseases of fish and supervises theses. She is a member of the European Association of Fish Pathologists and serves as the Secretary of the Italian Society of Fish Pathologists.