David graduated as a veterinary surgeon from the University of Edinburgh, and after a period in general practice moved to the University of Cambridge to complete a PhD in molecular genetics of inherited eye diseases. This was followed by a clinical residency in veterinary ophthalmology at the University of Bristol, after which he remained as lecturer. He later joined Davies Veterinary Specialists, where he became Director and Head of their Ophthalmology Service. David has previously served as Chair of the ECVO Examination Committee, as a member of the Working Party of the UK BVA/KC/ISDS Hereditary Eye Scheme, as eye examiner for the UK Guide Dogs breeding stock and Editorial Board member for Veterinary Ophthalmology and the Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery. He is co-editor of the BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Ophthalmology.