FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Jenny Green
Public Affairs Specialist
jgreen@nmda.nmsu.edu | 575-202-4249
March 2, 2026
NMDA hires new director of Veterinary Diagnostic Services
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A former federal wildlife disease expert is now leading New Mexico’s Veterinary Diagnostic Services (VDS) Division, bringing specialized experience in animal disease protection and surveillance to the state’s agriculture agency.
Dr. Aaron Phillips, who served as a diagnostician with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, began his role Feb. 16 at the New Mexico Department of Agriculture’s (NMDA) Albuquerque facility. At USDA’s National Wildlife Research Center in Fort Collins, Colorado, Dr. Phillips led wildlife disease diagnostics, research and surveillance.
“Dr. Phillips brings valuable diagnostic expertise and leadership at a time when animal health surveillance and disease detection are more important than ever,” said Jeff Witte, New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture. “His background will strengthen the VDS mission to provide reliable, science-based diagnostics that help protect New Mexico’s agriculture industry.”
NMDA’s VDS Division provides accurate, timely diagnostic support for veterinarians, livestock producers, animal owners and agencies to determine the cause of disease or death in animals, including livestock, pets and wildlife. The division conducts laboratory analysis ranging from blood and tissue samples to full necropsies (animal autopsies), working closely with the New Mexico Department of Health’s Scientific Laboratory Division and other partners to support animal health across the state.
Visit the NMDA website for more information about its Veterinary Diagnostic Services Division, including news, policies, forms and veterinarian resources.
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