Dr Katja Isaksen is a research officer at the Massey University EpiCentre. Her work involves research into the health of working dogs, health and welfare of farm animals, and delivering epidemiology training to veterinary professionals. Before pursuing a PhD in New Zealand, she trained as a veterinary nurse, worked several years as a laboratory animal technician, and gained a masters degree in animal welfare science from the University of Glasgow. She is interested in research that can improve the health and quality of life of animals that fulfil crucial but often overlooked roles in our societies, such as search-and-rescue and other working dogs.