#United States #Boehringer Ingelheim #Spokane #Veterinary Research #Veterinary Scholars

Spotlight on Veterinary Research: 2025 Veterinary Scholars Symposium

The annual Veterinary Scholars Symposium, which took place from August 7 to 9 in Spokane, Washington, served as a remarkable platform for nearly 600 veterinary students to exhibit their research findings. Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc., this event allowed students to share insights from their summer research projects, fostering intellectual exchange among peers, educators, and industry leaders.

The Veterinary Scholars Program, established by Boehringer Ingelheim in 1989, is a robust initiative that offers veterinary students hands-on research experiences typically over a 10-12 week summer period. In 2025, this program attracted participants not only from across various U.S. states but also from countries including France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, and Vietnam, all collaborating at 40 research sites.

Dr. Monica Figueiredo, director of the Veterinary Scholars Program, emphasized the critical role these students will play in future veterinary medicine: “The knowledge and skills gained through their summer research experience will shape the future of veterinary medicine.” Such insights are vital as these students prepare to tackle issues in both animal and human health.

Emerging Technologies and Research Areas

This year's symposium highlighted pressing topics in veterinary medicine, including the integration of artificial intelligence in research, effective strategies for combating avian influenza, and the potential of gene editing to address diseases prevalent in food animals. These discussions underline a continued commitment to merging technological advancements with veterinary care.

One of the fascinating aspects of the symposium was the inclusion of a virtual reality (VR) experience, created in collaboration with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. This innovative tool provided participants with a realistic experience in swine care and disease monitoring, particularly focusing on the detection of African swine fever. Attendees navigated through biosecurity protocols, animal inspections, and the diagnostic process, offering insights into the complexities of animal health management.

Research Awards Saluting Excellence

The symposium also served as a platform to honor outstanding student researchers. Katelyn Kahler from Mississippi State University was awarded the 2025 Boehringer Ingelheim Research Award for Veterinary Students for her innovative work on a pneumococcal vaccine with a novel adjuvant to enhance mucosal immunity. Her dedication to bridging veterinary research and its implications for both animal and human health sets a benchmark for future veterinary scientists.

In addition, Melissa Leonard, a PhD candidate in Immunology at The Ohio State University, received the 2025 Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Research Award for Graduate Veterinarians. Her research delves into the molecular mechanisms governing T cell migration during influenza infection, with aspirations to develop new treatments benefiting both human and animal health.

A Future Shaped by Research

As students presented their innovative research through poster sessions and engaged in discussions about the future of veterinary medicine, it became clear that the next generation of veterinary professionals is being well-prepared for the challenges ahead. These scholars are poised to influence advancements in veterinary medicine, ensuring continued progress in animal health.

In summarizing the event, Dr. Figueiredo remarked on the immense dedication and passion observed among the 2025 Veterinary Scholars and their mentors, highlighting how such commitment is crucial to fostering curiosity and advancement in the field of veterinary research.

For more insights into the Boehringer Ingelheim Research Awards and how to apply for the 2026 awards, details can be found on their website, confirming that the pursuit of veterinary excellence continues unabated.

About Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to enhancing the health of both humans and animals. With a commitment to innovation in veterinary medicine, the company provides a broad range of products designed to prevent and treat diseases. Founded in 1885 and remaining independent, Boehringer Ingelheim consistently values sustainability and long-term health in its practices, aiming to make a significant difference in the health and well-being of society.

To learn more about their animal health initiatives and available products, visit Boehringer Ingelheim.