The American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP) aims to advance scientific knowledge to improve poultry health, well-being, and productivity, thereby ensuring a safe and abundant global food supply. Since its inception in 1957, AAAP has served as a platform for those involved in avian disease research and management, facilitating knowledge exchange through conferences, publications, and educational materials, while also supporting the next generation of poultry medicine specialists through scholarships and awards.
The AAAP Foundation/Merck Animal Health Veterinary Student Scholarship Program focuses on promoting scientific awareness for the health and well-being of poultry and ensuring a secure food supply. It supports veterinary students demonstrating outstanding dedication to the poultry field. The program awards $50,000 annually, distributing $5,000 scholarships to ten second and third-year veterinary students, thereby encouraging them to pursue careers in poultry health, well-being, or food safety. This scholarship program exemplifies Merck Animal Health's commitment to the future of veterinary science, particularly in poultry health.