BusinessAnimal diagnostics company CEO awarded US honour

Animal diagnostics company CEO awarded US honour

THE CEO of MI:RNA, an Edinburgh veterinary diagnostics company, has been honoured with an industry accolade in Orlando, Florida.

Recognised for her contributions to the animal health industry, particularly her focus on women in the field, Dr. Eve Hanks was presented with the inaugural Entrepreneurial Spirit Feather in Her Cap award.

Established in 2017, the Feather in Her Cap Awards aim to celebrate the achievements of women in animal health and serve to inspire the next generation of industry leaders.

Eve has been recognised for the new category amid several other women who were honoured at the awards.

Headshot of Dr Eve Hanks
Dr Eve Hanks and MI:RNA have?developed a novel early disease detection technology for the petagriculture and equine sectors veterinary market that uses microRNA biomarkers and predictive modelling to accurately identify the presence and stage of a disease.

Eve has played a role in developing a strong pipeline of female talent within MI:RNA which is headquartered in Edinburgh, and across the industry.

Lisa Lee, senior vice president of US Petcare, and Feather In Her Cap director, said: “Eve’s impact on the veterinary world is substantial, with her visionary leadership and innovative approach transforming the landscape of veterinary diagnostics.

“Her commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace has been instrumental in MI:RNA’s success.

“This award is testament to her exceptional career achievements and her tireless efforts to inspire the next generation of women leaders in animal diagnostics.”

This recognition comes during an exciting period as the company embarks on a period of significant growth in the United States and globally.

Earlier this year MI:RNA opened a new lab facility incorporated into the University of Georgia in Athens to enhance access to advanced diagnostics across the southeastern United States, meeting the growing needs of veterinarians, animal health professionals, and pet owners.

Dr Eve Hanks said: “ MI:RNA is proudly female-led, and with just 29% of women in STEM careers, we’re working in a very male-dominated industry.

“I understand the obstacles many women leaders encounter, having experienced them myself, and I am passionate about playing my part to help more women in a similar position to advance into leadership roles.

“It was an incredible honour to be presented with the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award at the 2025 Feather in Her Cap award celebration by my peers in the animal health industry, on what was a hugely inspiring night which left me full of hope and excitement for the paths many women are forging forward in this field.”

Related Stories

WordPress Cookie Plugin by Real Cookie Banner