Veterinary Pathobiology

Theresa E. Rizzi, DVM, DACVP—Clinical Professor and Department Head

The Department of Veterinary Pathobiology conducts advanced research, education and diagnostic services in areas such as bacteriology, mycology, virology, immunology, parasitology, pathology, epidemiology and public health. The department houses the National Center for Veterinary Parasitology and is the academic home of the Director and faculty of the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. Faculty members participate in research funded by organizations such as the NIH, USDA, and other government agencies, and private industry, focusing on infectious diseases affecting both animals and humans. In addition to research, the department is dedicated to educating future veterinarians, veterinary specialists, and scientists while contributing to the scientific community through publications and presentations at national and international platforms. 

Residency Programs

Residency Coordinators: Dr. Valerie McElliott, Anatomic Pathology, and Dr. James H. Meinkoth, Clinical Pathology

The Department of Veterinary Pathology offers residency programs in both anatomic and clinical veterinary pathology. Applicants must hold a DVM or an equivalent degree. Each residency program is three years in length, with the option for residents to enter a PhD program. These programs are intended for individuals interested in diagnostic veterinary pathology and in pursuing board certification through the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. Residency training takes place through the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital and the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. 

The program emphasizes extensive diagnostic casework, primarily involving domestic animals, and includes weekly case conferences and seminars. Residents also have access to abundant archival materials that support preparation for specialty board examinations. The program typically includes three anatomic pathology residents and three clinical pathology residents. Information about open residency positions can be found on the American College of Veterinary Pathologist website: (https://www.acvp.org/). 

Comparative Biomedical Science Graduate Program

The Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program in the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine offers a multidisciplinary graduate education designed to support diverse student interest in animal and human health research. The program provides both MS and PhD degree options and builds on the college's strong foundation in veterinary medical training to advance animal health and biomedical research. Its mission includes developing a nationally recognized program that contributes to improvements in quality of the life worldwide. Research opportunities are available in several focus areas, including clinical sciences, infectious disease and parasitology, physiology, and stem cell biology. https://vetmed.okstate.edu/programs-and-admissions/cbsc-graduate-program