Controlling Antibiotic Resistance

Guest Bio: Christine Heaver, DVM, MPH

Following a successful career as an analytical chemist in pharmaceutical research and development, Dr. Chris Heaver received both a doctorate in veterinary medicine and master’s of public health through the University of Minnesota’s dual degree program and became certified in public health. Dr. Heaver’s work now focuses on providing technical and scientific expertise for regulatory implementation, management, and compliance for agriculture as well as policy development, advocacy, legislative and other initiatives in key areas of public health and food safety such as antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Heaver’s professional career has been dedicated to the advancement of food safety and public health, promoting scientifically sound decisions, policies, and programs. In addition, Chris has lead multiple efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance and promote public health, animal health and well-being, through educating and collaborating with an array of groups both nationally and internationally. Dr. Heaver is regularly sought after by local, national, and international media, has testified before Congress on numerous occasions, and recently received the distinguished award of Food Safety Veterinarian of the year. Dr. Heaver’s recent work includes regulatory issues such as the elimination of over the counter animal antibiotics and implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act; expert consult for litigation; and zoonotic disease outbreaks such as Ebola.

Notable Affiliations: Codex Alimentarius, Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Veterinary Medical Association, US Animal Health Association, National Pork Producers Council, American Association Avian Practitioners, American Association of Swine Veterinarians, American Association of Bovine Practitioners.