A veterinarian with an interest in infectious diseases James completed his veterinary studies at the University of Sydney, where he was awarded a BVSc, a BSc (Vet) and a PhD. James is currently a Professor of Veterinary Microbiology and Director of the Centre for Equine Infectious Disease at the University of Melbourne.

James is particularly interested in equine infectious diseases, but has recently become involved in the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship at the University of Melbourne. James’ research interests also include poultry infectious diseases and an increasing amount of wildlife work.

Professor Gilkerson is a Past-president of Equine Veterinarians Australia and the Victorian Division of the AVA. He was awarded the 2008 Australian Veterinary Association President’s Prize and in 2009 was made a Fellow of the Australian Veterinary Association. In 2020 James was awarded the Spirit of SAEVA award by the South African Equine Veterinary Association for his outstanding contribution to equine veterinary science.