OVC Announces New Chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences 

The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Craig Bailey as Chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, for a five‑year term beginning September 1, 2026.

Bailey is well known to many across OVC and the University of Guelph. A member of the Department of Biomedical Sciences since 2012, he brings deep knowledge of the department, a strong commitment to its people, and a collaborative approach to leadership grounded in shared decision‑making, transparency, and respect.

Over the years, Bailey has taken on several key leadership roles within the department and the University. Most recently, he served as Graduate Program Coordinator for the Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) program and Chair of the Department’s Graduate Program Committee. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, Bailey led the MBS program through a period of significant disruption, working closely with students, faculty, staff and College partners to ensure flexibility and continuity while maintaining academic rigour. The program has continued to grow and has since expanded to serve multiple departments.

Bailey is also an accomplished and highly collaborative researcher, leading an internationally recognized program focused on the physiology of neurons involved in learning, memory, and attention, supported by sustained Tri‑Council funding. His work reflects the department’s strong role at the intersection of fundamental discovery and translational biomedical research. In addition, he is deeply engaged in teaching and graduate mentorship across undergraduate, professional, and graduate programs, and is widely recognized for his dedication to student success.

“On behalf of the Search Committee, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Craig Bailey as Chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences,” said Dr. Jeff Wichtel, Dean of the Ontario Veterinary College and Chair of the Search Committee. “Dr. Bailey brings a thoughtful, collaborative leadership style, a strong commitment to academic excellence and a deep understanding of the department’s unique role within OVC and the broader University. The Committee was confident in his ability to lead the department forward while building on its many strengths.”

Bailey succeeds Dr. Tarek Saleh, who has served as Chair with dedication and care for the department and its community since joining U of G in 2016. Under Saleh’s leadership, the department continued to strengthen its teaching and research profile and its contributions to OVC’s academic mission.

“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences and to work alongside such dedicated faculty and staff,” said Saleh. “I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Bailey into this role and am confident that his leadership will serve the department well as it continues to grow and evolve.”

Reflecting on his appointment, Bailey emphasized his appreciation for the department and the people who make it what it is.

“I am honoured to be appointed Chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences and grateful for the confidence placed in me by my colleagues and the Search Committee,” said Bailey. “The department has an exceptional community of faculty, staff, and students, and I look forward to working together to support excellence in teaching, research, and graduate training, while continuing to foster a collegial, inclusive, and supportive environment.”

OVC extends its sincere appreciation to Saleh for his leadership and service, and warm congratulations to Bailey on his appointment. The College looks forward to supporting a smooth transition and to working with Bailey as he begins this important role.