Opportunities
The VPRF is dedicated to expanding career development opportunities for young veterinarians, by showcasing the variety of opportunities available to those who hold a veterinary degree. Beyond more traditional roles in clinical practice, veterinarians play pivotal roles in various industries (including but not limited to non-governmental organisations, pharmaceutical companies, the civil service, and the food industry) and are equipped with skills applicable to diverse sectors such as public health, research and academia, and policy-making. The VPRF aims to empower aspiring and qualified veterinarians to explore and pursue fulfilling, life-long careers within the veterinary world.
EMS Opportunities
Open to all UK veterinary students from their third year onwards.
We host an EMS policy placement in conjunction with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) for UK-based veterinary students interested in policy and regulation.
This placement offers students the opportunity to explore the wider applications of their veterinary degree and exposure to the legislative and regulatory side of animal health and welfare, and the veterinary profession.
The one-week placement is split between the House of Lords in Westminster and the RCVS Office on Hardwick Street, central London. During the week, students will shadow the organisations' staff, attend various meetings, carry out a range of activities integral to the organisations' functions and objectives, and carry out a short policy-related research task.
If you live outside of London and are successful in your application, suitable accommodation close to the office will be available for you alongside being reimbursed for travel to and around London.
Please note you must be in the third year of your veterinary medicine degree or above to apply.
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Placements will be available in 2026 during the following weeks:
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w/c 26th January
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w/c 2nd March
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w/c 11th May
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w/c 6th July
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We will assess applications on demonstrable interest and experience in any or all the following:
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Improving animal health and welfare
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Veterinary public health, trade and biosecurity
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Improving the diversity of the profession and widening participation
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One Health, sustainability and climate change mitigation
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Relevant policy or research experience.
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Understanding of the VPRF, their activities and the role of veterinarians in policy making
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To apply, please submit the following to Mark Sundhu (m.sundhu@rcvs.org.uk) before 12th December 2025:
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A one-page cover letter to the VPRF and RCVS stating why you would like to join us, the policy areas you are most interested in and what you would hope to learn from the placement
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Confirmation of enrolment on your veterinary medicine course from your university
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Your available dates from the list above (can include multiple)
If you have any questions, please email Martha Rushbrooke (rushbrookem@parliament.uk) or Mark Sundhu (m.sundhu@rcvs.org.uk).
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Deadline for applications 12th December 2025. ​​
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Occasionally we take independent EMS placements outside of the joint RCVS scheme for those who enquire directly to us with a cover letter on why they wish to apply. Financial assistance for travel and accommodation will be considered on request.
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