Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Clinical Studies - A Survey of Equine Practitioners in Canada: Prevalence, Characteristics and Management of Wounds in Horses - Dr. Ben Curnow
Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph
Advisor
Project Overview
The equine industry represents a significant economic and cultural sector in Canada. In Ontario alone, the industry's economic output is $8.2 billion. Skin wounds are among the most common conditions encountered in equine veterinary practice and represent a substantial welfare concern as well as a financial burden to horse owners and the industry.
A descriptive survey of equine veterinarians in Australia reported that wound cases comprised approximately 22.5% of equine caseloads. Distal limb wounds are the most encountered and reported as the most costly to treat (Sole et al., 2015; Theoret et al. 2015). These findings highlight the significant clinical and economic burden of equine wounds in veterinary practice. However, despite the importance of equine wound management in everyday practice, there is currently limited national-level data describing the frequency, characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of equine wounds in Canada. Differences in climate, horse management practices, equine disciplines, and geographic distribution of veterinary services may influence wound incidence and management strategies.
The study will work with a research team led by Dr. Curnow to develop and distribute a survey to characterize the prevalence, management, clinical outcomes and cost of equine wounds encountered by equine veterinarians practicing in Canada. Based on these results, the student will:
- Determine the frequency of equine wound cases encountered by veterinarians in Canada relative to their overall equine caseload
- Describe the characteristics of wounds commonly encountered in equine practice
- Evaluate treatment practices
- Estimate economic impact
- Report on clinical outcomes and complications
- Compare regional differences among Canadian provinces
Program Details
Start date: Summer 2026
Funding: 2026 M.Sc. stipend is $21,000 per year (increasing to $22,000 in 2027)
Application deadline: April 1, 2026
Eligibility: Domestic students are preferred to ensure eligibility for available scholarships
Required Education Level and Background
We are seeking a highly motivated M.Sc. in Clinical Studies thesis candidate who has successfully completed a minimum of an undergraduate degree/baccalaureate, in an honours program or the equivalent in animal or equine sciences, biomedical sciences, veterinary medicine or a related field.
Who should apply
- Individuals with a minimum admission average of 70% (B-) in the last two years of full-time equivalent study
- Ability to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
- Excellent reading, writing, comprehension and communication skills in English
Program Details and Funding
- The successful candidate will enroll in the Summer 2026 semester.
- Student funding will follow the department's stipend guidelines. For reference, the minimum 2026 M.Sc. stipend is $21,000 per year (increasing to $22,000 in 2027).
- Domestic students are preferred to ensure eligibility for available scholarships.
Application
Interested candidates should submit the following documents to Dr. Ben Curnow (bcurnow@uoguelph.ca) by April 1st, 2026.
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Cover letter outlining research experience and interest in the project
• Copies of official or unofficial academic transcripts
This project presents a unique opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge advancement in orthopedic research with strong potential for clinical translation. If you have a passion for biomedical innovation and joint health, we encourage you to apply!
At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. We invite and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including those from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our institution.