The ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Campus (ARC-OVR) has a long tradition of veterinary research, dating back to its founding in 1908 by Sir Arnold Theiler. It is internationally recognized as a veterinary centre of excellence and is a flagship campus of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

ARC-OVR provides scientific support for veterinary services and focuses on animal health and welfare through world-class research, including the development of vaccines and diagnostic tests using advanced molecular techniques. It also provides veterinary diagnostic services and produces vaccines against diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease and tick-borne diseases. The campus serves as a collaborating centre for the WOAH (formerly OIE) and the FAO in animal disease surveillance, control, and emergency preparedness in Africa.