Veterinary college students showcase innovative research in summer research program

Fifteen veterinary students presented cutting-edge research findings in the recent annual Summer Veterinary Student Research Program (SVSRP) presentations at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

Their projects — ranging from breakthrough ultrasound technology to wildlife disease management— showcased the breadth of veterinary research happening at Virginia Tech. After nine weeks of intensive, mentor-guided training, students from DVM classes 2026, 2027, and 2028 shared discoveries that could reshape animal healthcare.

Tackling some of veterinary medicine's biggest challenges

This year's cohort didn't shy away from tough problems. 

Michael Tetreault, Class of 2028, developed machine learning approaches to detect chronic pain in dogs without invasive procedures. 

"Our research was specifically looking at neuropathic pain in dogs," Tetreault explained. "What our project is trying to find out is if this neuropathic pain can be analyzed and diagnosed differently than what the current models are used today." 

His work with Cavalier King Charles Spaniels — a breed prone to painful neurological conditions— could revolutionize pain diagnosis. 

"We were looking for a noninvasive signal for diagnosing chronic pain, without having to even touch the animal or use biased questionnaires or physical and neuro exams that are used," Tetreault said.

Wildlife conservation got equal attention. 

Rylee Clark, Class of 2028, analyzed chronic wasting disease management strategies across all U.S. states. The stakes? Enormous.  

"Chronic wasting disease is a neurodegenerative disease that impacts members of the deer family," Clark said "It has been found that it can severely decline members of the deer population to the point of near extinction."

Her findings revealed troubling gaps. “We found many variations in management strategies across the U.S., some of which can impact the successes of containing the disease,” she said.

Game-changing technology takes center stage

One of the stars of this year's presentations? Histotripsy technology appeared in three separate projects.  

This focused ultrasound approach could transform veterinary medicine by offering precise treatments without traditional surgery. Virginia Tech's 2024 designation as a Focused Ultrasound Center of Excellence by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation positions the university as a leader in this promising field.

Several Class of 2026 students explored different applications.  

Briana Gleizer investigated spinal neurosurgery uses, showing how histotripsy offers "several theoretical advantages since it can be performed non-invasively with high precision to relieve disc associated neural tissue compression." The technology's real-time imaging capabilities could boost surgical confidence while protecting surrounding tissues.

Skylar Merkle took aim at canine osteosarcoma — a devastating bone cancer that typically means amputation. Her research explored histotripsy as a "limb-sparing, non-thermal ablation technique capable of destroying tumor tissue while preserving surrounding structures and stimulating an immune response." 

Other students tackled broader healthcare challenges. Jessica Gaine researched beneficial skin bacteria that could fight antibiotic resistance. Ryan Jordan investigated neuroprotective compounds to help animals recover from viral infections with fewer lasting neurological effects.

The secret sauce - collaboration

What made these projects successful? Students credit teamwork and mentorship. 

"I think the best thing that you can have to have a successful research project is collaboration," Clark reflected. "Having a good team behind you that can work with you, especially if you're working with something that you're a little unfamiliar with."

Tetreault agreed, identifying "teamwork, collaboration and animal welfare first and foremost" as research essentials. 

Building tomorrow's veterinary leaders

The SVSRP does more than fund research. Sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program, and VMCVM, it provides comprehensive training through weekly seminars with DVM scientists and an opportunity to network with DVM leaders at a large national/international Veterinary Scholars Symposium attended by over 750 registered participants.

“This summer research program offers DVM students invaluable hands-on research experience, exposure to diverse career paths, and the opportunity to present their findings at the Veterinary Scholars Symposium. I am always impressed by the high caliber of research projects of our SVSRP trainees. I view this program as a primer for DVM students to catch the ‘research bug,’ an experience that can significantly shape their career trajectories. Despite the funding uncertainties this year, we had a successful 18th year of the summer program. I am grateful for the continued support of not only our external sponsors (NIH and Boehringer-Ingelheim), but also to the Offices of the Dean and the Research and Graduate Studies of the college,” said Ansar Ahmed, Director, Summer Veterinary Scholars Research Program.

This training addresses a real need. Veterinarians with biomedical research backgrounds are increasingly sought after across academic, federal, biotech, and pharmaceutical institutions. 

What's next

These presentations proved something important: Today's veterinary students are already solving tomorrow's biggest animal health challenges. They're developing breakthrough diagnostic tools, tackling wildlife conservation crises, and pioneering technologies that could benefit millions of animals – and people as well.

Many plan to continue their research journeys, with several already working toward publication. The program's emphasis on collaboration and mentorship has given them both technical skills and professional networks to advance veterinary science throughout their careers.

Their work will contribute to improving animal welfare, advancing veterinary medicine, and strengthening connections between animal and human health through the One Health approach.