Queensland's only veterinary radiologist, Associate Professor Carol Carlisle of the School of Veterinary Science at the University of Queenslands, been appointed president of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists.
The College was established in 1971 to advance the study of veterinary science.
Ms Carlisle, the first woman to hold the position, said the College provided the opportunity for the recognition of advanced professional skills in a range of areas in veterinary science.
A confessed animal lover, Ms Carlisle graduated bachelor of veterinary science from the University of Queensland in 1958 and started work as a clinician in 1963.
She received a masters from the University in 1969 and a diploma of veterinary radiology from the Royal Veterinary College in London in 1974. In 1982, Ms Carlisle undertook membership and fellowship exams at the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists.
'When I graduated, radiology on animals was virtually unknown as a discipline. There were only four women in the faculty and the men were all studying with the aim of working on larger animals,' she said.
'After working as a clinician for some years, a position in radiology was advertised at the University and an applicant from England failed to show. It was combined with a lectureship in surgery, which I enjoyed, so I took it.
'I realised there were many people doing surgery and specialisation was being encouraged so I opted to specialise in radiology when it was at a very embryonic stage.
'The area has really grown. Veterinary radiology now encompasses CT and ultrasound, and there are always referrals from clinics.'
Ms Carlisle's interest in medicine obviously runs in the family.
Daughter Melissa Carlisle-Nowak is a veterinary pathologist after graduating bachelor of veterinary science with first-class honours in 1983 and gaining her PhD in 1990.
Son Shane Carlisle graduated bachelor of medicine and surgery in 1985.
For more information contact Ms Carlisle on telephone 07 3365 3465
