A Bermudian professor living in Scotland has been appointed the new head of veterinary studies at the University of Edinburgh.

Lisa Boden will take up the role at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies after interim head Dylan Clemens, who held the position since last month, and David Argyle, who was in the post from 2011.

She will become the first Bermudian and second woman to lead the college in its 200-year history. Dr Boden said: “I am excited and honoured to take on this role.

Dr Boden said: “I am excited and honoured to take on this role. It is a privilege to be able to lead this school, which has such extensive history and tradition, but remains a beacon of excellence for research-led teaching and innovation in clinical veterinary medicine, agriculture, and biomedical research.

“I look forward to this opportunity to help shape the future of our veterinary profession.”

Dr Boden, who graduated from Warwick Academy in 1989, has a PhD in veterinary epidemiology and a Master of Law degree in medical law and ethics.

Her career has focused on the relationship between animal, human and environmental health and sustainability.

She holds a personal chair of population medicine and veterinary public health policy, and is currently the co-director of the Scottish Government’s Centre for Expertise in animal disease outbreaks.

Through her positions, Dr Boden offers the government access to scientific data and advice to prepare against animal disease outbreaks.

Dr Boden has also founded the One Health Field Network, which offers access to education and training to those in leadership and healthcare roles in politically tense or fragile societies.

Dr Boden is a professor of population medicine and veterinary public health policy at the college’s Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems.

She is also the senior vice-president of the European College of Veterinary Public Health.

Dr Boden is a member of the Scottish Science Advisory Council, Scotland’s highest level science advisory body, which offers independent advice and recommendations on science strategy, policy and priorities to the Scottish Government.

David Argyle, the previous head of the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, said: “I am delighted that Professor Boden will be the next Head of the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies.

“She is an exceptional and inspirational veterinary academic leader and I know the school can look forward to a bright future and continued success.”

She will start her position as head of the school in September.

The Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies was founded in 1823 by William Dick, becoming Scotland’s first veterinary school. It has gone on to become one of the top ten veterinary schools in the world.