WILLIAM M. BERKOWSKI, JR., DVM, MS, DACVO®
Board-certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist
William M. Berkowski, Jr. is a Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist who joined VEI Gainesville in January 2023.
Dr. Berkowski attended Michigan State University in Lansing, MI, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology with a concentration in Animal Behavior and Neurobiology. He then went on to earn his Doctoral degree in Veterinary Medicine from the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2010. Following graduation, Dr. Berkowski worked as a primary care veterinarian in private practice for several years. He subsequently returned to his alma mater in 2013 to complete a small animal rotating internship and prepare for specialty training.
In 2018, Dr. Berkowski began his residency in comparative ophthalmology at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville, FL. At this time, he also resumed his academic studies, earning a master’s degree in Comparative Ophthalmology from the University of Florida as well. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Comparative Ophthalmology at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, on track to graduate in 2023.
Dr. Berkowski has presented research at annual meetings of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO), the European College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ECVO), and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO). In addition, he has served as a laboratory instructor of eye surgery many times at the NAVC Veterinary Meeting and Expo (VMX). He is the recipient of several awards for clinical research, public speaking, and academic achievement at both Michigan State University and the University of Florida. His publications and contributions to the veterinary profession are numerous.
An eyeball enthusiast through and through, when asked about his favorite part of practicing veterinary medicine, Dr. Berkowski cites building long-term relationships with families and their pets. The most rewarding part of his day is being able to restore vision to pets who have become blind or restore comfort to patients experiencing pain.
When not with patients, you’ll find Dr. Berkowski kayaking, bicycling, hiking, or spending time outside with his wife, young son, and daughter.
EDUCATION:
- Bachelor of Science in Zoology: Michigan State University
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine: Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Small Animal & Surgery Internship: Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Residency in Comparative Ophthalmology: University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
- Masters Degree in Comparative Ophthalmology: University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences