Hi I'm
Fiona Howie

I am an experienced veterinary histopathologist (BVMS MVM FRCPath MRCVS) with more than three decades dedicated to advancing ruminant and wildlife pathology and veterinary forensics.

After graduating from the University of Glasgow in 1989, I combined mixed‑practice locum work with a three‑year pathology residency and an MVM focused on equine gastrointestinal disease. I joined SRUC Veterinary Services in 1993 and, in 1998, became a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists by examination in large‑animal pathology.

I have developed a strong reputation in bovine, ovine and wildlife pathology, publishing widely and delivering lectures across the UK. I undertake the majority of Scotland’s wildlife forensic post‑mortem examinations, thanks to Scottish Government funding that ensures investigations for the Police, SSPCA, RSPB and NatureScot are provided at no cost - creating one of the richest wildlife forensic caseloads in Europe.

My work also extends beyond Scotland, carrying out forensic post‑mortems for England, Wales and the Isle of Man, funded by bodies including the RSPB, the Forensic Analysis Fund and individual police forces.
I have played a key role in long‑term disease monitoring in the expanding Scottish beaver population, contributing vital evidence to conservation and welfare policy.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to veterinary forensics, I received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 36th Annual Wildlife Crime Conference in 2025.

I serve on multiple expert groups including the PAW Forensic Working Group, PAW Scientific Working Group, the Forensic Science Regulator’s Non‑Human Biology Specialist Group, and the Scottish SPCA Veterinary Working Group, and I'm also an examiner for the Royal College of Pathologists.