Dalen Agnew, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Department Chair, Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
agnewd@msu.edu
Reproductive pathology of animals, domestic and wild.
Agnew Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Jose Cibelli, DVM, PhD
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
cibelli@msu.edu
The Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory works toward understanding how cellular reprogramming works at the molecular level. Lab members use this knowledge to generate isogenic—fully immune compatible—stem cells, and to improve the efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Andres Contreras, DVM, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
contre28@msu.edu
Research interests include adipose tissue biology with special emphasis on the effects of lipolysis and other fat tissue adaptation mechanisms associated with negative energy balance and the onset of lactation on host immunity and disease susceptibility.
Contreras Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Robert Fowkes, BSc, PhD, PGCert, FHEA
Chair
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
fowkesg2@msu.edu
The Endocrine Signaling Group, run by Fowkes, works on the mechanisms underlying disorders that affect the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid in humans, cats, and dogs. The Lab uses patient samples from the clinic to examine gene expression changes in endocrine tumors and in vitro models to understand hormone signaling pathways in these tissues.
Endocrine Signaling Group
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Viviane Gomes, DVM, PhD, DACT
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
leitegom@msu.edu
The Gomes Laboratory research interests lie on comparative pregnancy physiology and fetal programming, with focus on adverse cardiovascular, metabolic, and reproductive outcomes in offspring prenatally exposed to maternal obesity and hypertension. Aligned with the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, researchers utilize mouse, dog, and horse animal models to investigate how the intrauterine environment may affect the health of future generations.
May be accepting students
—————
Bartolomeo Gorgoglione, DVM, MSc, PhD, CertAqV
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
BartGorg@msu.edu
The Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory at Michigan State University focuses on research about host-pathogen interactions, comparatively studying pathobiological and immunological mechanisms during heterogenous infections in fish.
Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Neal Hammer, PhD, MS
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
hammern2@msu.edu
The Hammer Laboratory seeks to understand the metabolism of Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance.
Hammer Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Jack Harkema, DVM, PhD, DACVP, ATSF
University Distinguished Professor, Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine, and Director of the Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology and the Mobile Air Research Laboratories (AirCARE1 and 2)
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
harkemaj@msu.edu
Mechanisms underlying airway epithelial injury, repair, and dysrepair caused by inhaled xenobiotics (air pollutants, allergens, viruses, microbial toxins).
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Gisela Soboll Hussey, DVM, MS, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
husseygi@msu.edu
The Soboll Hussey Laboratory uses in vitro models of the equine, feline, and canine respiratory tract to research respiratory immunity and modulation of immunity for protection from viral disease.
Soboll Hussey Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Andrea Johnston, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Associate Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john8926@msu.edu
Our lab has two overarching objectives: 1) to understand sexual dimorphism in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) & lipid metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 2) to develop diagnostic and therapeutic methods that will improve survival outcomes and quality of life in dogs and cats with hepatobiliary disease.
Currently accepting students.
—————
András Komáromy, DrMedVet, PhD, DACVO, DECVO, FARVO
Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
komaromy@msu.edu
The Komáromy Laboratory primarily studies achromatopsia (also called rod monochromacy or total congenital color blindness), an inherited retinal disease that primarily affects cone photoreceptors.
Komáromy Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Daniel Langlois, DVM, DACVIM
Associate Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
langlo21@msu.edu
Copper-associated liver disorders in dogs and companion animal endocrinology.
Langlois Research Program
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
James Luyendyk, PhD
Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
luyendyk@msu.edu
Fatty liver disease and hepatotoxicity.
Luyendyk Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Jane Manfredi, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS-LA, DACVSMR
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
manfred1@msu.edu
The Manfredi ENCORE Laboratory researches the intersection between metabolic and orthopedic disease in multiple species.
ENCORE Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Adam Moeser, MS, PhD, DVM
Matilda R. Wilson Endowed Chair and Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
moeserad@msu.edu
The Gastrointestinal Stress Biology Laboratory is dedicated to understanding how early-life adversity and biological sex influence disease risk across the life span, with a specific focus on the gut and brain. The Lab studies mast cells as major immune orchestrators that are influenced by early-life adversity and sex hormones, with an emphasis on the gastrointestinal and brain neuroimmune interactions. By investigating the interplay between these systems, the Lab aims to gain insight into the mechanisms underlying health and disease, with important implications for both human and animal health. Research is funded by both the NIH and USDA, providing graduate students with ample opportunities to develop their skills in cutting-edge research techniques and to work on projects that have the potential to make a real-world impact.
Gastrointestinal Stress Biology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Amelia Munsterman, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS, DACVECC
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
munster4@msu.edu
Munsterman's Laboratory investigates gastrointestinal diseases and disorders affecting primarily the horse. Her work has focused on the diagnosis and cardiovascular effects of intra-abdominal hypertension. In addition, she has developed non-invasive methods for monitoring changes in gastrointestinal motility.
Munsterman Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Simon Petersen-Jones, DVet Med, PhD, DECVO
Professor and Donald R. Myers and William E. Dunlap Endowed Chair in Canine Health
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
peter315@msu.edu
The Petersen-Jones Laboratory focuses on hereditary eye diseases in animals—primarily retinal degeneration phenotypes, and particularly the development of large animal models for retinal degeneration research. Current active studies include ocular melanosis, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts in papillons, and comparative gene therapy.
Petersen-Jones Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
James Pestka, PhD
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
pestka@msu.edu
Mechanisms for omega-3 fatty acid suppression of triggering the autoimmune disease lupus.
Pestka Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
————— Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
Karilyn E. Sant, MPH, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
santkari@msu.edu
Dr. Sant is a developmental toxicologist, specializing in environmental determinants of adverse birth outcomes and juvenile metabolic diseases. Namely, she examines how exposures to compounds impact endocrine systems, including the pancreas. She studies emerging environmental contaminants, namely surface and drinking water pollutants, using in vitro and zebrafish models. Dr. Sant has received funding from diverse federal, state, and foundation sources and has collaborators spanning across the public health, pharmaceutical, and wildlife veterinary (conservation) fields.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
schott@msu.edu
Equine urinary tract disorders; pleuropheumonia fluid and electrolyte balance in exercising horses.
Schott Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Brian Schutte, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pediatrics and Human Development
schutteb@msu.edu
The goal of the Schutte Laboratory is to identify genetic factors that are involved in craniofacial development and disease, primarily lip and palate. The Lab uses preclinical models to test hypotheses about the function of DNA variants and genes in relevant tissues at critical timepoints in development.
Schutte Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Cheryl Swenson, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
cswenson@msu.edu
Swenson is an ACVP-boarded veterinary clinical pathologist with special expertise in the areas of comparative virology, urology, and nephrology, as well as cytology, urinalysis, hematology, and clinical chemistry.
Swenson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
James Wagner, MBA, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
wagnerja@msu.edu
Investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of health effects caused by exposure to environmental and occupational air pollutants.
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Victoria Watson, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
watsonvi@msu.edu
The Watson Laboratory works to understand the interactive roles of pathogenic organisms, members of the gut microbiome, and barrier function of the intestinal tract in health and disease, as well as develop large animal models of infectious pediatric gastrointestinal diseases.
Watson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
—————
Kurt Zinn, PhD, MS, DVM
Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
zinnkurt@msu.edu
Zinn conducts research in the field of molecular imaging, including as part of cancer diagnosis and therapy and neuroimaging of drug delivery to the brain.
Zinn Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
Pedro Henrique Esteves Trindade, DVM, MS, PhD, MBA
Assistant Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
trinidad4@msu.edu
Dr. Trindade focuses on overcoming challenges in farm animal welfare and health using data science approaches, more specifically, optimizing the acute pain monitoring in farm animals. Specific research areas include applied ethology, machine learning, pain measurement, statistical analyses, and R programming language.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Beth Ventura, MSc, PhD, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
venturab@msu.edu
My research interests are focused on the human element of animal welfare, especially how various groups interpret animal welfare challenges and perceive barriers to resolution. My applied research interests include pain mitigation for routine procedures and application of environmental enrichment to improve behavior and welfare outcomes in a range of captive species.
Currently accepting students.
Dalen Agnew, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Department Chair, Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
agnewd@msu.edu
Reproductive pathology of animals, domestic and wild.
Agnew Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Chris Contag, PhD
James and Kathleen Cornelius Endowed Chair, Hannah Distinguished Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chair, and Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
contagch@egr.msu.edu
The Contag Laboratory develops macroscopic and microscopic optical imaging tools and uses imaging to assess tissue responses to stress, reveal immune cell migration patterns, understand stem cell biology, and advance biological therapies.
Contag Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Andrea Doseff, PhD
Professor
Department of Physiology
doseffan@msu.edu
Doseff studies the mechanisms that regulate apoptosis and cell fate.
Doseff Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Andrea Johnston, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Associate Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john8926@msu.edu
Our lab has two overarching objectives: 1) to understand sexual dimorphism in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) & lipid metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 2) to develop diagnostic and therapeutic methods that will improve survival outcomes and quality of life in dogs and cats with hepatobiliary disease.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Kurt Zinn, PhD, MS, DVM
Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
zinnkurt@msu.edu
Zinn conducts research in the field of molecular imaging, including as part of cancer diagnosis and therapy and neuroimaging of drug delivery to the brain.
Zinn Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
Dalen Agnew, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Department Chair, Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
agnewd@msu.edu
Reproductive pathology of animals, domestic and wild.
Agnew Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
John Buchweitz, PhD, MS, DABT
Associate Professor and Section Chief of Nutrition and Toxicology
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
buchwei2@msu.edu
Research emphasis in veterinary diagnostic toxicology.
Buchweitz Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jose Cibelli, DVM, PhD
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
cibelli@msu.edu
The Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory works toward understanding how cellular reprogramming works at the molecular level. Lab members use this knowledge to generate isogenic—fully immune compatible—stem cells, and to improve the efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Andres Contreras, DVM, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
contre28@msu.edu
Research interests include adipose tissue biology with special emphasis on the effects of lipolysis and other fat tissue adaptation mechanisms associated with negative energy balance and the onset of lactation on host immunity and disease susceptibility.
Contreras Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Loïc Déjardin, DVM, MS, DACVS, DECVS
W.O. Brinker Endowed Chair of Veterinary Surgery, Professor, Head of Small Animal Orthopedic Surgery, and ACVS Founding Fellow - MIS Orthopaedics Small Animals
dejardin@msu.edu
The Déjardin Laboratory focuses on surgical veterinary orthopedic solutions that may have future application in human medicine. This includes joint biomechanics, total joint replacement, implant design, and the use of robotics in surgery.
Déjardin Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Robert Fowkes, BSc, PhD, PGCert, FHEA
Chair
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
fowkesg2@msu.edu
The Endocrine Signaling Group, run by Fowkes, works on the mechanisms underlying disorders that affect the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid in humans, cats, and dogs. The Lab uses patient samples from the clinic to examine gene expression changes in endocrine tumors and in vitro models to understand hormone signaling pathways in these tissues.
Endocrine Signaling Group
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Viviane Gomes, DVM, PhD, DACT
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
leitegom@msu.edu
The Gomes Laboratory research interests lie on comparative pregnancy physiology and fetal programming, with focus on adverse cardiovascular, metabolic, and reproductive outcomes in offspring prenatally exposed to maternal obesity and hypertension. Aligned with the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, researchers utilize mouse, dog, and horse animal models to investigate how the intrauterine environment may affect the health of future generations.
May be accepting students
—————
Bartolomeo Gorgoglione, DVM, MSc, PhD, CertAqV
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
BartGorg@msu.edu
The Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory at Michigan State University focuses on research about host-pathogen interactions, comparatively studying pathobiological and immunological mechanisms during heterogenous infections in fish.
Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Valerie Johnson, DVM, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john7670@msu.edu
Current ongoing research involves use of regenerative technologies for wound healing, infectious disease, and treatment of osteoarthritis in domestic and exotic species.
Johnson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Andrea Johnston, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Associate Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john8926@msu.edu
Our lab has two overarching objectives: 1) to understand sexual dimorphism in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) & lipid metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 2) to develop diagnostic and therapeutic methods that will improve survival outcomes and quality of life in dogs and cats with hepatobiliary disease.
Currently accepting students.
—————
András Komáromy, DrMedVet, PhD, DACVO, DECVO, FARVO
Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
komaromy@msu.edu
The Komáromy Laboratory primarily studies achromatopsia (also called rod monochromacy or total congenital color blindness), an inherited retinal disease that primarily affects cone photoreceptors.
Komáromy Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jane Manfredi, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS-LA, DACVSMR
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
manfred1@msu.edu
The Manfredi ENCORE Laboratory researches the intersection between metabolic and orthopedic disease in multiple species.
ENCORE Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Amelia Munsterman, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS, DACVECC
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
munster4@msu.edu
Dr. Munsterman's Laboratory investigates gastrointestinal diseases and disorders affecting primarily the horse. Her work has focused on the diagnosis and cardiovascular effects of intra-abdominal hypertension. In addition, she has developed non-invasive methods for monitoring changes in gastrointestinal motility.
Munsterman Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
schott@msu.edu
Equine urinary tract disorders; pleuropheumonia fluid and electrolyte balance in exercising horses.
Schott Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Cheryl Swenson, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
cswenson@msu.edu
Swenson is an ACVP-boarded veterinary clinical pathologist with special expertise in the areas of comparative virology, urology, and nephrology, as well as cytology, urinalysis, hematology, and clinical chemistry.
Swenson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Simon Petersen-Jones, DVet Med, PhD, DECVO
Professor and Donald R. Myers and William E. Dunlap Endowed Chair in Canine Health
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
peter315@msu.edu
The Petersen-Jones Laboratory focuses on hereditary eye diseases in animals—primarily retinal degeneration phenotypes, and particularly the development of large animal models for retinal degeneration research. Current active studies include ocular melanosis, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts in papillons, and comparative gene therapy.
Petersen-Jones Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
Robert Abramovitch, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
abramov5@msu.edu
The Abramovitch Laboratory is researching how M. tuberculosis (Mtb) senses and adapts to environmental cues encountered by the bacterium during the course of disease.
Abramovitch Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Neal Hammer, MS, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
hammern2@msu.edu
The Hammer Laboratory seeks to understand the metabolism of Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance.
Hammer Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Dana Spence, PhD
Professor
Department of Biomedical Engineering
dspence@chemistry.msu.edu
The Spence Group applies analytical tools to solve problems in diabetes, sickle cell anemia, transfusion medicine, and platelet physiology.
Spence Group
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Amelia Munsterman, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS, DACVECC
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
munster4@msu.edu
Munsterman's Laboratory investigates gastrointestinal diseases and disorders affecting primarily the horse. Her work has focused on the diagnosis and cardiovascular effects of intra-abdominal hypertension. In addition, she has developed non-invasive methods for monitoring changes in gastrointestinal motility.
Munsterman Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
schott@msu.edu
Equine urinary tract disorders; pleuropheumonia fluid and electrolyte balance in exercising horses.
Schott Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
Ángel Abuelo, DVM, MRes, PhD, MSc, DABVP, DECBHM, FHEA MRCVS
Associate Professor of Cattle Health
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
abuelo@msu.edu
The Abuelo Laboratory's focus is on exploring strategies to improve host resilience during the periods of increased disease risk in dairy cattle: the neonatal and periparturient periods. The research team combines basic research on the lab bench using cells or tissues with applied research conducting epidemiological studies in the field.
Abuelo Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Ting-Yu Cheng, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVPM
Assistant Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
chengti9@msu.edu
Dr. Cheng’s main research interest is in strengthening the resilience and sustainability of the global food animal industry against diseases from the perspective of efficient diagnosis, early detection, and transmission-blocking. He aims to better understand how emerging and re-emerging diseases spread between livestock farms and, therefore, how to control and prevent them. He has combined social science, traditional epidemiology, and molecular diagnostic techniques to seek food animal disease prevention and control strategies under various contexts.
Currently accepting students.
—————
John Kaneene, DVM, MPH, PhD, FAES, FAVES
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
kaneene@cvm.msu.edu
Kaneene's research emphasis includes the epidemiology and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, surface water contamination, bovine tuberculosis, and disease surveillance.
Kaneene Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shannon Manning, PhD, MPH
MSU Foundation Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
mannin71@msu.edu
Manning studies molecular epidemiology and the evolutionary genetics of infectious diseases caused by bacterial pathogens, namely Escherichia coli and Streptococcus agalactiae.
Manning Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Meghan Milbrath, PhD, MPH
Assistant Professor
Department of Entomology
mpi@msu.edu
Research interests include honey bee disease epidemiology, risk assessment, and infectious disease risk.
Michigan Pollinator Initiative
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Bo Norby, CVM, MPVM, PhD
Associate Dean for Academic Programs-Pre-clinical Education and Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
norby@msu.edu
Bovine Leukemia Virus and its effect on disease frequency and wellbeing in cattle.
Norby Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Annette O'Connor, BVSc, MVSc, DVSc, FANZCVSc
Chair and Professor of Epidemiology
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
oconn445@msu.edu
O'Connor is interested in the application of epidemiology to better inform policy related to food safety, One Health, animal welfare, animal health, and veterinary clinical practice.
MERIDIAN
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Catalina Picasso Risso, DVM, MS, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
picasso1@msu.edu
My research program focuses on One Health and infectious disease epidemiology, with emphasis on zoonotic pathogens affecting animals, humans, and environment. I integrate field epidemiology, diagnostics, and biostatistical approaches to understand disease dynamics and transmission, with the goal of informing effective surveillance and control strategies that reduce health disparities in underrepresented populations and agricultural systems. This work supports science-based decision-making at the interface of public, animal, and environmental health.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Zelmar Rodriguez, DVM, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
zelmar01@msu.edu
I lead an integrated applied research and extension program to support sustainable and profitable dairy farming by improving milk quality, technology adoption and development, and disease control.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Pamela Ruegg, DVM, MPVM
David J. Ellis Chair in Antimicrobial Resistance and Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
plruegg@msu.edu
Ruegg’s Antimicrobial Stewardship and Dairy Health Management Laboratory's primary mission is to perform and communicate research that helps dairy farmers maintain healthy cattle and use antimicrobials in a way that is both economically and socially responsible.
Antimicrobial Stewardship and Dairy Health Management Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
John Buchweitz, PhD, MS, DABT
Associate Professor and Section Chief of Nutrition and Toxicology
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
buchwei2@msu.edu
Research emphasis in veterinary diagnostic toxicology.
Buchweitz Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
John Kaneene, DVM, MPH, PhD, FAES, FAVES
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
kaneene@cvm.msu.edu
Kaneene's research emphasis includes the epidemiology and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, surface water contamination, bovine tuberculosis, and disease surveillance.
Kaneene Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shannon Manning, PhD, MPH
MSU Foundation Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
mannin71@msu.edu
Manning studies molecular epidemiology and the evolutionary genetics of infectious diseases caused by bacterial pathogens, namely Escherichia coli and Streptococcus agalactiae.
Manning Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Linda Mansfield, MS, VMD, PhD, DACVM
University Distinguished Professor and Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
mansfie4@msu.edu
The Comparative Enteric Diseases Laboratory focuses on how host-microbiota-pathogen interactions govern enteric health and disease. The research team studies the inter-relationships among factors mediating diarrheal disease.
Comparative Enteric Diseases Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Bo Norby, CVM, MPVM, PhD
Associate Dean for Academic Programs-Pre-clinical Education and Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
norby@msu.edu
Bovine Leukemia Virus and its effect on disease frequency and wellbeing in cattle.
Norby Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Pamela Ruegg, DVM, MPVM
David J. Ellis Chair in Antimicrobial Resistance and Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
plruegg@msu.edu
Ruegg’s Antimicrobial Stewardship and Dairy Health Management Laboratory's primary mission is to perform and communicate research that helps dairy farmers maintain healthy cattle and use antimicrobials in a way that is both economically and socially responsible.
Antimicrobial Stewardship and Dairy Health Management Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
Cheryl Swenson, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
cswenson@msu.edu
Swenson is an ACVP-boarded veterinary clinical pathologist with special expertise in the areas of comparative virology, urology, and nephrology, as well as cytology, urinalysis, hematology, and clinical chemistry.
Swenson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP,
Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
Ángel Abuelo, DVM, MRes, PhD, MSc, DABVP, DECBHM, FHEA MRCVS
Associate Professor of Cattle Health
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
abuelo@msu.edu
The Abuelo Laboratory's focus is on exploring strategies to improve host resilience during the periods of increased disease risk in dairy cattle: the neonatal and periparturient periods. The research team combines basic research on the lab bench using cells or tissues with applied research conducting epidemiological studies in the field.
Abuelo Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Chris Contag, PhD
James and Kathleen Cornelius Endowed Chair, Hannah Distinguished Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chair, and Professor
Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics
contagch@egr.msu.edu
The Contag Laboratory develops macroscopic and microscopic optical imaging tools and uses imaging to assess tissue responses to stress, reveal immune cell migration patterns, understand stem cell biology, and advance biological therapies.
Contag Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Andrea Doseff, PhD
Professor
Department of Physiology
doseffan@msu.edu
Doseff studies the mechanisms that regulate apoptosis and cell fate.
Doseff Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Bartolomeo Gorgoglione, DVM, MSc, PhD, CertAqV
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
BartGorg@msu.edu
The Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory at Michigan State University focuses on research about host-pathogen interactions, comparatively studying pathobiological and immunological mechanisms during heterogenous infections in fish.
Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jack Harkema, DVM, PhD, DACVP, ATSF
University Distinguished Professor, Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine, and Director of the Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology and the Mobile Air Research Laboratories (AirCARE1 and 2)
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
harkemaj@msu.edu
Mechanisms underlying airway epithelial injury, repair, and dysrepair caused by inhaled xenobiotics (air pollutants, allergens, viruses, microbial toxins).
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Gisela Soboll Hussey, DVM, MS, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
husseygi@msu.edu
The Soboll Hussey Laboratory uses in vitro models of the equine, feline, and canine respiratory tract to research respiratory immunity and modulation of immunity for protection from viral disease.
Soboll Hussey Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Valerie Johnson, DVM, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john7670@msu.edu
Current ongoing research involves use of regenerative technologies for wound healing, infectious disease, and treatment of osteoarthritis in domestic and exotic species.
Johnson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Linda Mansfield, MS, VMD, PhD, DACVM
University Distinguished Professor and Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
mansfie4@msu.edu
The Comparative Enteric Diseases Laboratory focuses on how host-microbiota-pathogen interactions govern enteric health and disease. The research team studies the inter-relationships among factors mediating diarrheal disease.
Comparative Enteric Diseases Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Adam Moeser, MS, PhD, DVM
Matilda R. Wilson Endowed Chair and Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
moeserad@msu.edu
The Gastrointestinal Stress Biology Laboratory is dedicated to understanding how early-life adversity and biological sex influence disease risk across the life span, with a specific focus on the gut and brain. The Lab studies mast cells as major immune orchestrators that are influenced by early-life adversity and sex hormones, with an emphasis on the gastrointestinal and brain neuroimmune interactions. By investigating the interplay between these systems, the Lab aims to gain insight into the mechanisms underlying health and disease, with important implications for both human and animal health. Research is funded by both the NIH and USDA, providing graduate students with ample opportunities to develop their skills in cutting-edge research techniques and to work on projects that have the potential to make a real-world impact.
Gastrointestinal Stress Biology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Narayanan Parameswaran, BVSc, MS, PhD
Professor
Department of Physiology
narap@msu.edu
The Parameswaran Laboratory is interested in the area of innate immunity, inflammation and cell signaling in the context of gut and bone pathophysiology.
Parameswaran Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
James Pestka, PhD
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
pestka@msu.edu
Mechanisms for omega-3 fatty acid suppression of triggering the autoimmune disease lupus.
Pestka Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Margaret Petroff, MS, PhD
Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
petrof1@msu.edu
The Petroff Laboratory studies the defense of the fetus from the maternal immune system, key molecular pathways of maternal and fetal development, and immunomodulation and autoimmune disease in fertility.
Petroff Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
James Wagner, MBA, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
wagnerja@msu.edu
Investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of health effects caused by exposure to environmental and occupational air pollutants.
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
Robert Abramovitch, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
abramov5@msu.edu
The Abramovitch Laboratory is researching how M. tuberculosis (Mtb) senses and adapts to environmental cues encountered by the bacterium during the course of disease.
Abramovitch Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Ting-Yu Cheng, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVPM
Assistant Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
chengti9@msu.edu
Dr. Cheng’s main research interest is in strengthening the resilience and sustainability of the global food animal industry against diseases from the perspective of efficient diagnosis, early detection, and transmission-blocking. He aims to better understand how emerging and re-emerging diseases spread between livestock farms and, therefore, how to control and prevent them. He has combined social science, traditional epidemiology, and molecular diagnostic techniques to seek food animal disease prevention and control strategies under various contexts.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Victor DiRita, PhD
Rudolph Hugh Endowed Chair in Microbial Pathogenesis and Chair
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
diritavi@msu.edu
DiRita has focused his research on uncovering pathogenicity mechanisms in a range of bacteria including Vibrio cholerae, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Campylobacter jejuni. His research aims to develop and apply novel molecular and genetic technologies and to design innovative approaches for discovering new therapeutics.
DiRita Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Bartolomeo Gorgoglione, DVM, MSc, PhD, CertAqV
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
BartGorg@msu.edu
The Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory at Michigan State University focuses on research about host-pathogen interactions, comparatively studying pathobiological and immunological mechanisms during heterogenous infections in fish.
Fish Pathobiology and Immunology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Neal Hammer, PhD, MS
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
hammern2@msu.edu
The Hammer Laboratory seeks to understand the metabolism of Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance.
Hammer Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Gisela Soboll Hussey, DVM, MS, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
husseygi@msu.edu
The Soboll Hussey Laboratory uses in vitro models of the equine, feline, and canine respiratory tract to research respiratory immunity and modulation of immunity for protection from viral disease.
Soboll Hussey Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Valerie Johnson, DVM, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john7670@msu.edu
Current ongoing research involves use of regenerative technologies for wound healing, infectious disease, and treatment of osteoarthritis in domestic and exotic species.
Johnson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
John Kaneene, DVM, MPH, PhD, FAES, FAVES
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
kaneene@cvm.msu.edu
Kaneene's research emphasis includes the epidemiology and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, surface water contamination, bovine tuberculosis, and disease surveillance.
Kaneene Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Thomas Loch, MS, PhD
Director of MSU-AAHL Aquatic Animal Disease Ecology and Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
lochthom@msu.edu
Loch's research interests lie at the intersections between fish health/disease, fishery conservation, and aquaculture under the premise that a more thorough understanding of aquatic animal disease ecology will lead to improved health of both natural and farmed populations of aquatic organisms.
MSU-AAHL Aquatic Animal Disease Ecology Program
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Shannon Manning, PhD, MPH
MSU Foundation Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
mannin71@msu.edu
Manning studies molecular epidemiology and the evolutionary genetics of infectious diseases caused by bacterial pathogens, namely Escherichia coli and Streptococcus agalactiae.
Manning Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Linda Mansfield, MS, VMD, PhD, DACVM
University Distinguished Professor and Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
mansfie4@msu.edu
The Comparative Enteric Diseases Laboratory focuses on how host-microbiota-pathogen interactions govern enteric health and disease. The research team studies the inter-relationships among factors mediating diarrheal disease.
Comparative Enteric Diseases Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Meghan Milbrath, PhD, MPH
Assistant Professor
Department of Entomology
mpi@msu.edu
Research interests include honey bee disease epidemiology, risk assessment, and infectious disease risk.
Michigan Pollinator Initiative
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Bo Norby, CVM, MPVM, PhD
Associate Dean for Academic Programs-Pre-clinical Education and Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
norby@msu.edu
Bovine Leukemia Virus and its effect on disease frequency and wellbeing in cattle.
Norby Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Catalina Picasso Risso, DVM, MS, PhD
Assistant Professor
Large Animal Clinical Sciences
picasso1@msu.edu
My research program focuses on One Health and infectious disease epidemiology, with emphasis on zoonotic pathogens affecting animals, humans, and environment. I integrate field epidemiology, diagnostics, and biostatistical approaches to understand disease dynamics and transmission, with the goal of informing effective surveillance and control strategies that reduce health disparities in underrepresented populations and agricultural systems. This work supports science-based decision-making at the interface of public, animal, and environmental health.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Zelmar Rodriguez, DVM, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
zelmar01@msu.edu
I lead an integrated applied research and extension program to support sustainable and profitable dairy farming by improving milk quality, technology adoption and development, and disease control.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Artem S. Rogovsky, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVM
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
rogovsky@msu.edu
Rogovsky Lab focuses on host-pathogen interaction of Lyme disease and louse-borne relapsing fever spirochetes. His research also entails various clinical microbiology projects.
May be accepting students.
—————
Pamela Ruegg, DVM, MPVM
David J. Ellis Chair in Antimicrobial Resistance and Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
plruegg@msu.edu
Ruegg’s Antimicrobial Stewardship and Dairy Health Management Laboratory's primary mission is to perform and communicate research that helps dairy farmers maintain healthy cattle and use antimicrobials in a way that is both economically and socially responsible.
Antimicrobial Stewardship and Dairy Health Management Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
schott@msu.edu
Equine urinary tract disorders; pleuropheumonia fluid and electrolyte balance in exercising horses.
Schott Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Cheryl Swenson, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
cswenson@msu.edu
Swenson is an ACVP-boarded veterinary clinical pathologist with special expertise in the areas of comparative virology, urology, and nephrology, as well as cytology, urinalysis, hematology, and clinical chemistry.
Swenson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jean Tsao, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
tsao@msu.edu
Tsao has more than 20 years of experience studying Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, and its vector, the blacklegged tick.
Tsao Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Victoria Watson, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
watsonvi@msu.edu
The Watson Laboratory works to understand the interactive roles of pathogenic organisms, members of the gut microbiome, and barrier function of the intestinal tract in health and disease, as well as develop large animal models of infectious pediatric gastrointestinal diseases.
Watson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
—————
Zhiyong Xi, PhD
Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
xizy@msu.edu
Xi's long-term goal is to develop control strategies to block dengue virus transmission in mosquitoes.
Xi Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
Ángel Abuelo, DVM, MRes, PhD, MSc, DABVP, DECBHM, FHEA MRCVS
Associate Professor of Cattle Health
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
abuelo@msu.edu
The Abuelo Laboratory's focus is on exploring strategies to improve host resilience during the periods of increased disease risk in dairy cattle: the neonatal and periparturient periods. The research team combines basic research on the lab bench using cells or tissues with applied research conducting epidemiological studies in the field.
Abuelo Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Chris Contag, PhD
James and Kathleen Cornelius Endowed Chair, Hannah Distinguished Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chair, and Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
contagch@egr.msu.edu
The Contag Laboratory develops macroscopic and microscopic optical imaging tools and uses imaging to assess tissue responses to stress, reveal immune cell migration patterns, understand stem cell biology, and advance biological therapies.
Contag Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Andres Contreras, DVM, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
contre28@msu.edu
Research interests include adipose tissue biology with special emphasis on the effects of lipolysis and other fat tissue adaptation mechanisms associated with negative energy balance and the onset of lactation on host immunity and disease susceptibility.
Contreras Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Andrea Doseff, PhD
Professor
Department of Physiology
doseffan@msu.edu
Doseff studies the mechanisms that regulate apoptosis and cell fate.
Doseff Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jack Harkema, DVM, PhD, DACVP, ATSF
University Distinguished Professor, Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine, and Director of the Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology and the Mobile Air Research Laboratories (AirCARE1 and 2)
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
harkemaj@msu.edu
Mechanisms underlying airway epithelial injury, repair, and dysrepair caused by inhaled xenobiotics (air pollutants, allergens, viruses, microbial toxins).
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Valerie Johnson, DVM, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john7670@msu.edu
Current ongoing research involves use of regenerative technologies for wound healing, infectious disease, and treatment of osteoarthritis in domestic and exotic species.
Johnson Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
James Luyendyk, PhD
Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
luyendyk@msu.edu
Fatty liver disease and hepatotoxicity.
Luyendyk Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Jane Manfredi, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS-LA, DACVSMR
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
manfred1@msu.edu
The Manfredi ENCORE Laboratory researches the intersection between metabolic and orthopedic disease in multiple species.
ENCORE Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Adam Moeser, MS, PhD, DVM
Matilda R. Wilson Endowed Chair and Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
moeserad@msu.edu
The Gastrointestinal Stress Biology Laboratory is dedicated to understanding how early-life adversity and biological sex influence disease risk across the life span, with a specific focus on the gut and brain. The Lab studies mast cells as major immune orchestrators that are influenced by early-life adversity and sex hormones, with an emphasis on the gastrointestinal and brain neuroimmune interactions. By investigating the interplay between these systems, the Lab aims to gain insight into the mechanisms underlying health and disease, with important implications for both human and animal health. Research is funded by both the NIH and USDA, providing graduate students with ample opportunities to develop their skills in cutting-edge research techniques and to work on projects that have the potential to make a real-world impact.
Gastrointestinal Stress Biology Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Amelia Munsterman, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS, DACVECC
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
munster4@msu.edu
Dr. Munsterman's Laboratory investigates gastrointestinal diseases and disorders affecting primarily the horse. Her work has focused on the diagnosis and cardiovascular effects of intra-abdominal hypertension. In addition, she has developed non-invasive methods for monitoring changes in gastrointestinal motility.
Munsterman Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Narayanan Parameswaran, BVSc, MS, PhD
Professor
Department of Physiology
narap@msu.edu
The Parameswaran Laboratory is interested in the area of innate immunity, inflammation and cell signaling in the context of gut and bone pathophysiology.
Parameswaran Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
James Pestka, PhD
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology
pestka@msu.edu
Mechanisms for omega-3 fatty acid suppression of triggering the autoimmune disease lupus.
Pestka Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
James Wagner, MBA, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
wagnerja@msu.edu
Investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of health effects caused by exposure to environmental and occupational air pollutants.
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.
Andres Contreras, DVM, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
contre28@msu.edu
Research interests include adipose tissue biology with special emphasis on the effects of lipolysis and other fat tissue adaptation mechanisms associated with negative energy balance and the onset of lactation on host immunity and disease susceptibility.
Contreras Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Viviane Gomes, DVM, PhD, DACT
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
leitegom@msu.edu
The Gomes Laboratory research interests lie on comparative pregnancy physiology and fetal programming, with focus on adverse cardiovascular, metabolic, and reproductive outcomes in offspring prenatally exposed to maternal obesity and hypertension. Aligned with the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, researchers utilize mouse, dog, and horse animal models to investigate how the intrauterine environment may affect the health of future generations.
Gomes Laboratory (webpage coming soon)
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students
—————
Jack Harkema, DVM, PhD, DACVP, ATSF
University Distinguished Professor, Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine, and Director of the Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology and the Mobile Air Research Laboratories (AirCARE1 and 2)
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
harkemaj@msu.edu
Mechanisms underlying airway epithelial injury, repair, and dysrepair caused by inhaled xenobiotics (air pollutants, allergens, viruses, microbial toxins).
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Andrea Johnston, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Associate Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
john8926@msu.edu
Our lab has two overarching objectives: 1) to understand sexual dimorphism in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) & lipid metabolism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 2) to develop diagnostic and therapeutic methods that will improve survival outcomes and quality of life in dogs and cats with hepatobiliary disease.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Daniel Langlois, DVM, DACVIM
Associate Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
langlo21@msu.edu
Copper-associated liver disorders in dogs and companion animal endocrinology.
Langlois Research Program
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
James Luyendyk, PhD
Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
luyendyk@msu.edu
Fatty liver disease and hepatotoxicity.
Luyendyk Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
Rance Nault, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
naultran@msu.edu
The Nault Lab investigates how chemicals and drugs affect liver disease development and progression, with a focus on spatial and cell-specific mechanisms. By integrating cutting-edge experimental and computational methods, the lab seeks to uncover how genetic and environmental factors drive disease. This research aims to generate mechanistic insights that support the development of personalized strategies.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Karilyn E. Sant, MPH, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
santkari@msu.edu
Dr. Sant is a developmental toxicologist, specializing in environmental determinants of adverse birth outcomes and juvenile metabolic diseases. Namely, she examines how exposures to compounds impact endocrine systems, including the pancreas. She studies emerging environmental contaminants, namely surface and drinking water pollutants, using in vitro and zebrafish models. Dr. Sant has received funding from diverse federal, state, and foundation sources and has collaborators spanning across the public health, pharmaceutical, and wildlife veterinary (conservation) fields.
Currently accepting students.
—————
Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
schott@msu.edu
Equine urinary tract disorders; pleuropheumonia fluid and electrolyte balance in exercising horses.
Schott Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Dana Spence, PhD
Professor
Department of Biomedical Engineering
dspence@chemistry.msu.edu
The Spence Group applies analytical tools to solve problems in diabetes, sickle cell anemia, transfusion medicine, and platelet physiology.
Spence Group
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
James Wagner, MBA, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
wagnerja@msu.edu
Investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of health effects caused by exposure to environmental and occupational air pollutants.
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Zheng Zhou, MS, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Animal Science
zhouzz@msu.edu
The Zhou Laboratory utilizes molecular and omics approaches to study the impacts of nutritional interventions on production performance and health-related metabolic alterations.
Zhou Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
Viviane Gomes, DVM, PhD, DACT
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
leitegom@msu.edu
The Gomes Laboratory research interests lie on comparative pregnancy physiology and fetal programming, with focus on adverse cardiovascular, metabolic, and reproductive outcomes in offspring prenatally exposed to maternal obesity and hypertension. Aligned with the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, researchers utilize mouse, dog, and horse animal models to investigate how the intrauterine environment may affect the health of future generations.
May be accepting students
—————
András Komáromy, DrMedVet, PhD, DACVO, DECVO, FARVO
Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
komaromy@msu.edu
The Komáromy Laboratory primarily studies achromatopsia (also called rod monochromacy or total congenital color blindness), an inherited retinal disease that primarily affects cone photoreceptors.
Komáromy Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Simon Petersen-Jones, DVet Med, PhD, DECVO
Professor and Donald R. Myers and William E. Dunlap Endowed Chair in Canine Health
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
peter315@msu.edu
The Petersen-Jones Laboratory focuses on hereditary eye diseases in animals—primarily retinal degeneration phenotypes, and particularly the development of large animal models for retinal degeneration research. Current active studies include ocular melanosis, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts in papillons, and comparative gene therapy.
Petersen-Jones Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Hal Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
schott@msu.edu
Equine urinary tract disorders; pleuropheumonia fluid and electrolyte balance in exercising horses.
Schott Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Brian Schutte, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pediatrics and Human Development
schutteb@msu.edu
The goal of the Schutte Laboratory is to identify genetic factors that are involved in craniofacial development and disease, primarily lip and palate. The Lab uses preclinical models to test hypotheses about the function of DNA variants and genes in relevant tissues at critical timepoints in development.
Schutte Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
Dalen Agnew, DVM, PhD, DACVP
Department Chair, Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
agnewd@msu.edu
Reproductive pathology of animals, domestic and wild.
Agnew Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Jose Cibelli, DVM, PhD
Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
cibelli@msu.edu
The Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory works toward understanding how cellular reprogramming works at the molecular level. Lab members use this knowledge to generate isogenic—fully immune compatible—stem cells, and to improve the efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Viviane Gomes, DVM, PhD, DACT
Assistant Professor
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences
leitegom@msu.edu
The Gomes Laboratory research interests lie on comparative pregnancy physiology and fetal programming, with focus on adverse cardiovascular, metabolic, and reproductive outcomes in offspring prenatally exposed to maternal obesity and hypertension. Aligned with the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, researchers utilize mouse, dog, and horse animal models to investigate how the intrauterine environment may affect the health of future generations.
May be accepting students
—————
Keith Latham, PhD
Co-director of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and Adjunct Professor
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology
lathamk1@msu.edu
Latham's research is devoted to understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate early mammalian embryogenesis and how disruptions in early developmental events can lead to disease later in life.
Latham Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jane Manfredi, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS-LA, DACVSMR
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
manfred1@msu.edu
The Manfredi ENCORE Laboratory researches the intersection between metabolic and orthopedic disease in multiple species.
ENCORE Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Margaret Petroff, MS, PhD
Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
petrof1@msu.edu
The Petroff Laboratory studies the defense of the fetus from the maternal immune system, key molecular pathways of maternal and fetal development, and immunomodulation and autoimmune disease in fertility.
Petroff Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Janeen Salak-Johnson, MS, PhD
Professor and Meadow Brook Chair
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
john8880@msu.edu
The Salak-Johnson Laboratory is primarily dedicated to enhancing our understanding of maternal-fetal interactions concerning stress responsiveness, the microbiome-brain-immune axis, and the future progeny's well-being. This is achieved through a whole-animal biological approach that integrates elements from both basic and translational sciences, aiming to optimize the health and well-being of progeny through maternal modulation either in utero or post-natal. The long-term objective of the Lab is to advance scientific knowledge by implementing strategies that align with the One Health Mission, particularly focusing on goals #3 (Good Health and Well-being) and #12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Currently accepting students.
—————
Karilyn E. Sant, MPH, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
santkari@msu.edu
Dr. Sant is a developmental toxicologist, specializing in environmental determinants of adverse birth outcomes and juvenile metabolic diseases. Namely, she examines how exposures to compounds impact endocrine systems, including the pancreas. She studies emerging environmental contaminants, namely surface and drinking water pollutants, using in vitro and zebrafish models. Dr. Sant has received funding from diverse federal, state, and foundation sources and has collaborators spanning across the public health, pharmaceutical, and wildlife veterinary (conservation) fields.
Currently accepting students.
Robert Abramovitch, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
abramov5@msu.edu
The Abramovitch Laboratory is researching how M. tuberculosis (Mtb) senses and adapts to environmental cues encountered by the bacterium during the course of disease.
Abramovitch Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
Jack Harkema, DVM, PhD, DACVP, ATSF
University Distinguished Professor, Albert C. and Lois E. Dehn Endowed Chair in Veterinary Medicine, and Director of the Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology and the Mobile Air Research Laboratories (AirCARE1 and 2)
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
harkemaj@msu.edu
Mechanisms underlying airway epithelial injury, repair, and dysrepair caused by inhaled xenobiotics (air pollutants, allergens, viruses, microbial toxins).
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Gisela Soboll Hussey, DVM, MS, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
husseygi@msu.edu
The Soboll Hussey Laboratory uses in vitro models of the equine, feline, and canine respiratory tract to research respiratory immunity and modulation of immunity for protection from viral disease.
Soboll Hussey Laboratory
MSU Scholars
May be accepting students.
—————
John Kaneene, DVM, MPH, PhD, FAES, FAVES
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences
kaneene@cvm.msu.edu
Kaneene's research emphasis includes the epidemiology and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, surface water contamination, bovine tuberculosis, and disease surveillance.
Kaneene Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
James Pestka, PhD
University Distinguished Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
pestka@msu.edu
Mechanisms for omega-3 fatty acid suppression of triggering the autoimmune disease lupus.
Pestka Laboratory
MSU Scholars
Currently accepting students.
—————
James Wagner, MBA, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
wagnerja@msu.edu
Investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of health effects caused by exposure to environmental and occupational air pollutants.
Laboratory for Environmental and Toxicologic Pathology
MSU Scholars
Not accepting students.
—————
Shawn Zimmerman, DVM, PhD, DACVP, Postdoctoral Fellowship
Assistant Professor
Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation
zimme374@msu.edu
The Zimmerman laboratory endeavors to explore novel host-pathogen interactions with the ultimate goal of exploiting those interactions to identify new biomarkers, develop medical countermeasures, and establish improved animal models of infection. Her team focuses on studying bacterial pathogens with zoonotic potential or that are of high concern for antimicrobial resistance, and present studies are exploring Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli [ETEC] and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
May be accepting students.