Ivan Ravera joins veterinary college, supporting growth of dermatology service

As a part of the expansion of its dermatology service, Ivan Ravera joined the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine as assistant professor of veterinary dermatology. This strategic hire is part of the college's commitment to expanding its dermatology service and enhancing the quality of education and research in veterinary medicine.

International Experience and Passion for Teaching

Ravera brings a wealth of international experience and an evident enthusiasm for teaching to the college. His educational journey includes a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Universidad del Salvador in Argentina, a Master of Science in Immunology, and a Ph.D. in Animal Health and Medicine, both earned at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona in Spain. He is also a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Dermatology.

“After earning my Ph.D., I worked in the private sector, but after a while, I began to miss the university environment and the interactions with students,” Ravera said. This led him back into the world of academia with faculty positions at Catholic University of Valencia and Louisiana State University.

A Collaborative Approach to Teaching

Ravera views teaching as a collaborative process: "I learn a lot from my students,” he said. “I like making connections with them. I get to know them, and it helps make lectures more comfortable.” Ravera's approach emphasizes the importance of making each class not just a session of knowledge transfer, but a shared learning experience.

Dedication to Dermatological Research

On the research side, he is focused on learning more about demodicosis, a parasitic skin disease caused by Demodex mites; otitis externa, a condition causing inflammation of ear canals; antibiotic resistance; and innovative laser surgery techniques. 

“I mainly focus on Demodex, but I also love ear canals,” he explained. “It’s a sub-specialty in my specialty. To me each case is a personal challenge because I know that the patient and the owners have been struggling for a long time.”

A Personal Connection to the New River Valley

The decision to join the veterinary college was also influenced by the allure of the New River Valley's natural beauty. Ravera and his wife, avid outdoor enthusiasts, have embraced the local landscape, exploring it with Bruno, their German wirehaired pointer, while their cat Bayou rests at home. The couple's commitment to experiencing the region's hiking trails reflects their love for adventure and the outdoors. 

“When we moved here, my wife bought me a book with 40 different local hiking trails,” he said. “My goal is to complete all of them.”