The award, now in its fourth year, is open to qualified poultry veterinarians who are under the age of 35 on 1 January, 2015.

The winner will be selected by a global panel of judges and will receive a US$5,000 contribution towards attending international scientific or continued professional development meetings.

The WVPA is calling for nominations to be made on behalf of young veterinarians who have excellent poultry diagnostic and advisory skills, are effective communicators and transferors of their knowledge and can demonstrate a real passion for their industry.

"We continue to be impressed by the calibre of entries for this award, and we are confident that this year will be no exception," said Nigel Horrox, vice president of the WVPA.

"We are looking for an individual who is not only invaluable to their local poultry industry, but who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty and is a credit to their profession," he added.

Hector Badillo, group director of global marketing at Zoetis, said the contribution made by young poultry veterinarians is vital to the future of the industry.

"We are proud to support this award, which recognises top new talent in the global poultry industry and the outstanding contribution made by an individual."

Entries for the award are to be made via the dedicated web site: www.wvpa-award.com.

Nominees/applicants are asked to describe in 500 words or less their role and achievements in the industry and why they feel they should win the award.

The award will be presented at the XIX Congress of the World Veterinary Poultry Association, Cape Town in South Africa from 7 to 11 September, 2015.

Closing date for entries is 31 March 2015.