August 9, 2024
Veterinary Research Scholars Program recognizes scholars and mentors
Summer veterinary student research projects took center stage on the first day of August for the presentation of posters and recognition of scholars and mentors. The 2024 session of the Veterinary Research Scholars Program, VRSP, accepted 25 students who collaborated with research mentors both inside and outside the College of Veterinary Medicine. The group also included visiting scholars from other veterinary colleges and countries.
"In this program, veterinary students are paired with experienced research faculty from the College of Veterinary Medicine, across the K-State campus and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to gain hands-on experience with veterinary research," said Kate KuKanich, professor of small animal internal medicine and director of the Veterinary Research Scholars Program. "Scholars also participate in interactive weekly activities, tour research facilities, and meet a variety of veterinary researchers to learn about veterinary career opportunities."
KuKanich said the objective of the Veterinary Research Scholars Program is to introduce veterinary students to biomedical research through an engaging summer experience and to encourage talented veterinary professional students to enter veterinary careers involving research.
"At the end of the summer, scholars presented their research posters for K-State faculty, research colleagues, students, alumni, and corporate friends and donors," KuKanich said. "We were delighted to present this year’s mentoring award with thanks to our award sponsor, Elanco. This award is special because mentors are nominated by their veterinary scholars, and each year we have such wonderful mentors in our program. This year's recipient is Dr. Jeba Chelladurai, who was nominated by Amanda Roth."
“Dr. Chelladurai is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly kind, always offering support and encouragement to those under her guidance. Her exemplary mentorship has profoundly impacted my academic and personal journey, making her truly deserving of this award,” Roth said.
Student projects this year included studies such as the use of a virtual cow herd to evaluate the efficiency and sustainability of cows with diverse genetics, assessing mosquito problems on swine farms, evaluating risk factors for cruciate ligament ruptures in dogs and more.
The VRSP and USDA hosted veterinary students from Michigan State University, Texas A&M University, the University of Missouri and Utrecht University. Other mentors in attendance included scientists from the K-State's entomology department and the USDA Agricultural Research Service.
The VRSP will culminate with the Veterinary Scholars Symposium from Aug. 8-10 in St. Paul, Minnesota, where the scholars will share research posters with other veterinary scholars from across the globe. The symposium is cosponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim and the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges.