The British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) is delighted to announce Ms Esme Logan as the winner of the Undergraduate Thesis of the Year Award 2025. The award celebrates excellence in undergraduate research and highlights the critical contributions students are making to the advancement of animal science.

Esme, who completed her undergraduate degree in Veterinary Bioscience at Aberystwyth University, impressed the judging panel with her thesis entitled “Characterisation of the vacuolar protein sorting 13 (VPS13) in liver fluke: a potential novel target for parasite control.” Her research explored the growing challenge of anthelmintic resistance in liver fluke, a parasite of major global importance that causes significant health and productivity issues in livestock.

By successfully identifying and characterising the novel VPS13 protein target in the parasite, Esme’s work provides a valuable foundation for the development of new control strategies at a time when resistance to existing treatments is threatening livestock health and farm sustainability worldwide.

Reflecting on her award, Esme said:

“I feel truly honoured to receive this award. It’s very rewarding to have my work recognised in this way, and I’m grateful for the guidance and support I’ve had throughout my project. The recognition inspires me to continue pursuing research alongside my veterinary studies and future career.”

Esme is now continuing her academic journey by studying Veterinary Science at the University of Liverpool, where she hopes to combine her clinical training with future research in parasitology and livestock health.

Maggie Mitchell, CEO of BSAS, congratulated Esme on her achievement:

“The Thesis of the Year Award showcases the depth of talent and innovation among undergraduate students in animal science. Esme’s work addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing the livestock industry and demonstrates the real-world impact of student research. We are thrilled to recognise her outstanding contribution.”

The BSAS Thesis of the Year Award is open to undergraduate students in animal science and related fields across the UK and Ireland. It provides a platform for early career researchers to share their work, gain recognition, and inspire the next generation of scientists working to improve the health, welfare and sustainability of animals in food, companion, and natural systems. Esme will present her research to the animal science community at the BSAS Annual Conference in York from 14-16th April 2026.

For further information about BSAS awards, events and opportunities, please visit www.bsas.org.uk