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Ana Clara Visits the Verocai Lab!

My name is Ana Clara, and I am a veterinarian currently in the third year of my Ph.D. at the Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC) in Bahia, Brazil. In November 2024, I had the privilege of joining Dr. Verocai’s lab at Texas A&M University as part of a research exchange program. My main goal here is to expand my studies in veterinary parasitology and gain practical experience in a leading research environment.

Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a strong passion for science and small animal clinical practice. During my Ph.D., my research has focused on parasitic diseases in small animals, particularly Dirofilaria immitis, a zoonotic disease of increasing importance due to its impact on both animal and public health. This experience at Dr. Verocai’s laboratory has provided me with invaluable resources and support, allowing me to learn from experts who share a passion for science and believe that a collective effort is required to advance research and create meaningful changes.

Being here has been an incredible opportunity for both professional and personal growth. I am excited to contribute to the lab’s projects while expanding my expertise and exchanging ideas with other dedicated researchers. This experience marks an important moment in my academic journey and reinforces my commitment to science and the advancement of animal health.

Awards, Accolades, and Achievements

This past month, many Verocai Lab members (and Dr. Verocai himself) were recognized for various achievements at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences Awards Ceremony! These awardees included:

Dr. Guilherme Verocai, TVMA Research Award – honors and recognizes exceptional faculty member for their outstanding achievements in veterinary medical research.
Dr. Hassan Hakimi, Outstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate Award – Presented to a postdoctoral research associate who has secured research funding and demonstrates excellence in research and publications.
Dr. Matthew Kulpa, Outstanding PhD Student Award – Given to a graduate student who excels in research, academics, and proposal submissions during their graduate studies.
Emily Orr, Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation Dr. Eve Gerome Memorial Scholarship – Recognizes a DVM student in good standing from a rural county or area
Isaac Neuman, Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation Student Research Scholar Awards – Presented to students who demonstrate excellence in research
Cora Gracia, Kaytee Avian & Special Species Excellence Award – Presented to a fourth-year student who demonstrates excellence in companion bird and non-domestic avian medicine, surgery, and management
Diane Briceno & Emily Orr, Merck Parasitology Awards – Presented to veterinary students who demonstrate outstanding achievement and enthusiasm for parasitology in small and production animals

Our winners and all the other worthy awardees can be found at https://vetmed.tamu.edu/awards/. Congratulations and we are incredibly proud of you and your well-deserved recognition!!!