Prof. David J. Maggs, BVSc (Hons), Diplomate ACVO, is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine, one of the world's leading veterinary institutions. Internationally recognized as one of the pioneers of modern veterinary ophthalmology, he has dedicated more than three decades to advancing the field through clinical excellence, research, education, and mentorship.
Prof. Maggs graduated with Honours from the University of Melbourne in 1988 before spending five years in mixed veterinary practice in Australia and the United Kingdom. He subsequently moved to the United States to pursue advanced specialty training, completing internships and a residency in comparative ophthalmology before joining the faculty at UC Davis in 2000, where he established an internationally distinguished academic career.
A Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (DACVO), Prof. Maggs is internationally renowned for his expertise in feline ophthalmology, corneal disease, ocular surface disorders, uveitis, ocular pharmacology, and infectious eye diseases. His pioneering research on feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1), antiviral therapy, and corneal disease has significantly influenced the diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic diseases in companion animals worldwide.
Prof. Maggs has authored and co-authored hundreds of peer-reviewed scientific publications, textbook chapters, and clinical reviews, and is the lead editor and principal author of Slatter's Fundamentals of Veterinary Ophthalmology, the world's most widely used textbook in veterinary ophthalmology and the standard reference for veterinary students, residents, and specialists around the globe. He is a highly sought-after invited speaker and has delivered keynote lectures at major veterinary congresses across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
Although now Professor Emeritus, Prof. Maggs remains actively engaged in advancing veterinary ophthalmology through international lecturing, clinical education, research collaboration, and mentorship. His outstanding contributions to veterinary science have earned him worldwide recognition as one of the profession's most respected educators and one of the leading authorities in veterinary ophthalmology.
