Martin Ficken, DVM, Ph.D., resident director of TVMDL’s Gonzales laboratory, was awarded the Diagnostic Services Award. Ficken uses his invaluable expertise in poultry disease and pathology to serve the state of Texas and the nation, often assisting large commercial clients as well as backyard poultry owners. Ficken joined TVMDL in 2009 as a pathologist. Now, as a resident director, he splits his time between administrative and lab work. In 2022, Ficken used his diagnostic testing expertise to limit the harm caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza in Texas after he detected the first case in the state. His willingness to go beyond what is asked of him has protected the 700 million chickens in Texas. Ficken works continuously to share his knowledge with the public, his clients and his colleagues.
This except is originally from AgriLife Today.
In November, Ficken was also honored with a Regents Fellow Service Award.