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.

For the past six months, the Verocai lab hosted a wonderful graduate student from Brazil, Sany Caroline Liberal. Recently, Sany shared some of her experiences in the lab and visiting the United States! Here is what she had to say and some photos from her time:

“I am a PhD student in Brazil at the School of Environmental Sciences and Agricultural Sustainability at Dom Bosco Catholic University. Between June and November 2024, I completed a PhD exchange program at Texas A&M University to conduct my research project in Parasitology, more specifically diagnosing filarioids that infect procyonids.

The PhD exchange program was a transformative experience in my academic and professional training. It was a unique opportunity to expand my research horizons, experience a new academic culture, and improve my skills in an international environment. During the months I spent at Texas A&M University, my activities were focused on molecular diagnostics and biological data analysis, and I was able to generate new data for my research, in addition to collaborating on projects that were already underway.

Working with researchers from different parts of the world also provided me with a great deal of cultural and academic learning. While the language barrier was difficult to overcome, these challenges turned into great learning experiences, teaching me how to deal with uncertain situations and how to work more collaboratively and efficiently in international environments.

When I returned to Brazil, I brought with me not only new technical knowledge, but also a broader view of the various possibilities for scientific collaboration. In addition, the experience was crucial for the development of my academic career, allowing me to build a solid foundation for publishing international articles.

My university and I are very grateful for the experience. This exchange program resulted in a significant step forward in my doctoral research and was very enriching in my journey as a student and professional. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with professionals and researchers from Texas A&M University.”

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If you are considering visiting the Verocai Lab to be hosted like Sany, please do not hesitate to contact us!