Veterinary science is a field of research that involves studies of diseases and pathogens in terrestrial and aquatic animals, utilizing multiple disciplines. The field attempts to explain the cause, progress and distribution of diseases, as well as the interaction of pathogens and hosts. The predominant aspects of the activities of The Institute for Experimental Pathology, University of Iceland at Keldur are on research, surveillance and diagnostic service in veterinary medicine at laboratory level.

The institute has created a unique position in the field. Due to the geographical isolation of the country there are well defined animal breeds that have different sensitivity to several diseases than other breeds. Due to the relatively small size of the country, limited number of animal species, well defined health system and control of production, there are multiple possibilities for unique research projects.