VMCVM Faculty Spotlight: Kush Kumar Yadav
Kush Kumar Yadav
Postdoctoral Researcher, The Meng Lab of Molecular Virology
When did you join the veterinary college?
I joined the veterinary college at VT in June of 2024.
The best part of being a faculty is?
- Independent Researcher: One of the most rewarding aspects of being a faculty member is the opportunity to conduct independent research. Dr. Scott Kenney, a former postdoctoral fellow in Dr. X.J. Meng’s lab at Virginia Tech and currently a faculty member at The Ohio State University, mentored me throughout my graduate studies (both Master's and Ph.D.). I have always admired him and aspired to follow in his footsteps. Under his mentorship, I was given the freedom to take ownership of my project, formulating hypotheses and directing research to achieve meaningful objectives. I was never confined to a single project or narrow focus. This flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of being a faculty member: the ability to pursue diverse and innovative research that addresses real-world problems and makes significant contributions to the scientific community.
- Mentoring the next generation: Throughout my graduate studies, I had the privilege of mentoring numerous undergraduate students and a few graduate students. Watching my mentees excel, whether as graduate students or veterinary students, has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my academic journey. I look forward to continuing to mentor aspiring scientists and playing a role in shaping the next generation of researchers.
Best advice I've gotten...
Since childhood, my father often told me, “Always aim for the moon, and if you fail, don’t worry, you’ll fall among the stars.” Although this may sound like a cliché, it is one of the most valuable pieces of advice I have ever received, and it has stayed with me throughout my life.
In high school, I aspired to attend medical school. Unfortunately, I was not able to secure a spot in a government-funded medical college in Nepal, which would have significantly reduced the financial burden. However, I had also applied to veterinary school and was accepted. At the time, I felt a deep sense of disappointment and defeat for not achieving my initial goal. Looking back, my journey through veterinary school equipped me with a range of both hard and soft skills that proved essential for success in graduate studies. Today, I truly believe I have chosen the right path that is both personally and professionally fulfilling. My father's advice helped me see setbacks as redirections toward opportunities which I might not have otherwise discovered.
How would you capture the essence of your work in a newspaper headline?
"The Pig Connection: Pig serves as Middleman for the Zoonotic Transmission of rat hepatitis E virus (rat HEV)”.
During my graduate studies, I discovered that pigs may serve as the intermediate hosts for the potential zoonotic transmission of rat HEV.
My hidden talent...
My father was a national-level volleyball player, and through him, I developed a deep appreciation for sports and the values of sportsmanship from an early age. As a result, I became skilled in several sports, including cricket, volleyball, and table tennis (ping-pong). Participating in sports has been an important part of my life, helping me build discipline, teamwork, and resilience, qualities that have also positively influenced my professional journey.
A person who has inspired me...
Menuka Bhandari, my wife. I feel she has some supernatural powers when it comes to love, life, and happiness. She has been a major motivation in my life while continuing my academic journey. I take her inspiration to overcome the obstacles that follow me in my career and life.
Words of encouragement to a current veterinary college student...
Securing a spot in a veterinary college in such a prestigious college as VT is a challenging and commendable achievement. Reaching this point reflects your sincerity, dedication, and hard work. As you continue on this journey, remember to prioritize your mental and physical well-being alongside your academic goals. Taking care of yourself is just as important as achieving academic success.
One misconception that all students seem to have is?
A common misconception is that graduate school is solely about studying. In reality, it is a long and demanding journey that requires students to strike a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives. Finding joy in both aspects is essential to avoid burnout, long-term success, and mental well-being.
If I had a superpower, it would be...
I would become PATHOMAN (a superhero I introduced at a Halloween party at The Ohio State University in 2024). Dressed as PATHOMAN, I imagined having the power to eliminate all harmful pathogens from the world. If I truly had a superpower, I would use it to eradicate disease-causing agents and make the world a healthier place for all.
This excites me the most about the future of my industry...
The potential to integrate AI in determining the pathogenicity of viruses and preventing future outbreaks of pathogenic viruses.
A cause I'm most passionate about...
I am deeply passionate about addressing real-world problems, particularly in the realm of infectious diseases. My goal is to contribute to the eradication of harmful pathogens and promote global health and prosperity through scientific research.
Favorite way to end the day...
Enjoy a nice dinner with my family while watching a movie.
Top of my bucket list...
Traveling to Africa with my wife is at the top of my bucket list to explore the continent’s diverse cultures, wildlife, and landscapes.
My favorite quote...
“Failing is the first step of learning.” This quote reminds me that setbacks are an essential part of growth and should be embraced as opportunities for further growth and improvement.
Anything else to add?
Never hesitate to start a conversation. You never know where it might lead. Good friends and mentors can inspire, motivate, and support you in ways you never expected.
