The newly-renamed University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) recently welcomed scientist Erdal Erol, DVM, MSc, PhD, as the laboratory's new head of diagnostic microbiology.

Originally from Turkey, Erol’s unique background in both field veterinary medicine and a variety of microbiology disciplines made him a rare candidate for the position, according to VDL director Craig Carter, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVPM.

“We are extremely fortunate to recruit Dr. Erol, as he brings us strong research and service experience in microbiology and rich clinical experience as a veterinarian,” Carter said. “He’s a very valuable person because he not only has postgraduate training and experience but also is a veterinarian and can bring the clinical picture together. He has both sides of that equation.”

At the VDL Erol oversees bacteriology, virology, and molecular genetics departments, working with the scientists and technicians in each area to provide timely and accurate test results for clients and farmers. He is also developing and validating new tests that can be offered to help diagnose and treat various animal diseases