Summer Research Training Program Mentors

Learn more about each mentor below

DANIEL FELIPE BARRANTES MURILLO, DVM, MSc, Ph.D., DACVP
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: dabarra@okstate.edu
Phone: (405)-744-6995
Current Research Interests:
- Vector-Borne Diseases
- Parasitology diagnostic methods
- Parasitic Diseases in wild and domestic animals
- Diagnostic pathology of parasitic diseases
View publications
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Molecular diagnosis of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs
- Serological survey of zoonotic flea-borne pathogens in cats
- Molecular detection of pathogens in fleas from animal shelters
- Feline cutaneous leishmaniasis serological and molecular diagnosis
- Molecular detection of parasites in formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissues
Expected qualities in a summer research student
Responsible, punctual, strong research ethics
Previous experience with molecular diagnostics preferred but not required.
JOSHUA BUTCHER, BS, MS, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences Assistant Professor
Email: joshua.butcher@okstate.edu
Phone: (405) 744-8088
Expert profile

Current Research Interests:
I have multiple research interests, but currently my research paradigm focuses on obesity and aging (sarcopenic obesity). We are currently looking at how exercise (specifically skeletal muscle) can uncouple obesity from its cardiometabolic complications (like hypertension, vascular dysfunction, renal disease, diabetes, etc.) and overlaying these comorbidities in an aging rodent model.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
One potential project idea would be: “Obesity and its Effects on Brain Oxidant Stress, Aging and Vascular Adrenergic Dysfunction, Does an Exercise Mimetic Improve Renal Function, Obesity and its Effect on Lung Function, etc.” That being said, if a student has a particular passion for a topic that’s not listed, I’ve certainly never been one to shy away from a new scientific adventure!
Expected qualities in a summer research student: The ideal student will have an enthusiasm for science and willingness to work hard in a team setting.
SARAH CAPIK, BS, DVM, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: scapik@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interests:
Systematic reviews/Knowledge Summaries (these could be on almost any topic of the student’s choosing), bovine respiratory disease in beef and dairy cattle.
View publications
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Investigating the immunologic and microbial community development of beef calves diagnosed with bovine respiratory disease.
GIOVANA CATANDI, DVM, Ph.D., DIPL. ACT
Assistant Professor
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences
Email: giovana.catandi@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interests:
Equine assisted reproduction, oocyte in vitro maturation
Potential research projects for summer research students:
Effects of different oxygen or energy substrate concentrations during in vitro maturation of equine oocytes
Qualities expected in a summer research student: Good work ethics, motivation, and communication skills. Attention to details, reliability, horse handling skills and general lab skills are desired.
RUDRA CHANNAPPANAVAR, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: rchanna@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interests:
Major focus of research in my laboratory is to study the immune response to coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV. We examine protective efficacy of antiviral agents and vaccines in models of coronavirus infections. We also study factors that lead to protective and pathogenic immunity to coronaviruses in young and aged, and males and females. We utilize in-vitro and in-vivo (animal models) systems to assess the role of immune response during coronavirus infections.
View publications
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Evaluate vaccine induced immunity against coronaviruses in young and aged hosts.
- Test the efficacy of novel antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs in COVID19 models.
- Identify host and virus factors that cause severe vs mild to moderate disease.
Expected qualities in a summer research student
An ideal research student would be highly motivated, hard-working, and sincere who can work as a team with other laboratory members.
HENRIQUE CHENG, DVM, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Associate Professor of Physiology
Email: henrique.cheng@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
- Diabetes Research: Regulation of insulin secretion by natural compounds for diabetes treatment.
- Stem Cell Research: Endocrine control of stem cell differentiation for tissue regeneration.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Molecular mechanism of malvidin stimulated insulin secretion in pancreatic beta cells.
- Osteocalcin-induced osteogenic differentiation of dental follicle stem cells.
Expectedqualities in a summer research student
Curious and interested in research.
YONG CHENG, Ph.D.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Assistant Professor
Email: ycheng@okstate.edu
Current research interests:
Our research is focused on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the host-pathogen interactions during mycobacterial infections.
1) Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), has infected one third of populations across the world, leading to 9 million new TB cases and 1.4 million deaths annually. Among those infected, 5 - 10% people would develop active TB disease during their lifetime. While the development of novel technologies such as diagnostic platforms advanced the global TB control in the past decades, TB remains one of the most fatal infectious diseases.
2) Nontuberculous Mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) and Mycobacterium abscessus complex, are emerging pathogens that are responsible for severe lung infections in individuals suffering from bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis.
The mechanism on how mycobacterial infection leads to the disease remains to be elucidated. The long-term goal of our research is to decipher the mechanisms of mycobacterial pathogenesis and the host defense to these organisms using cutting-edge technologies. We hope that our research will facilitate the development of novel, active and cost-effective antimycobacterial drugs and vaccines.
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
Title: Macrophage biology and host immunity in response to nontuberculous mycobacterial infection.
Qualities expected in a summer research student:
Background: microbiology and/or immunology
ANDREZA CONTI PATARA, DVM, Ph.D., DACVECC
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences
Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care
Assistant Professor
Email: acontip@okstate.edu
Expert Profile
Current research interest areas:
Trauma, Sepsis, Endothelial Glycocalyx, Blood banking
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Sedation influence on the feline blood units (the cats are sedated for the blood donation. Does it affect the recipient?
- Parvocalyx study: evaluation of the endothelial glycocalyx in response to crystalloids or plasma administration in dogs with parvovirus enteritis.
- The use of tranexamic acid via intramuscular in healthy dogs
If the student has different ideas, I am completely open to work on that if we have time (data collection should be completed during the summer) and budget for that.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Students looking for research opportunities and with time to get involved in the projects data collection.
XUFANG DENG, MS, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Assistant Professor
Email:xufang.deng@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
Dr. Deng’s research mainly focuses on understanding coronavirus replication, viral-host interplay, and pathogenesis. His research subjects include human coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and the coronaviruses that infect domestic animals (swine, bovine, pets, etc.). Dr. Deng's research uses a variety of state-of-art techniques including reverse genetics and CRISPR-Cas to identify viral and host components that determine coronavirus diseases in BSL-2 and BSL/ABSL-3 settings. Dr. Deng’s research aims to facilitate the discovery and development of effective anti-coronavirus strategies.
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Developing a live-attenuated porcine coronavirus vaccine candidate using PROTAC
- Tissue tropism of porcine coronaviruses
- Cloning and construction of a reverse genetic platform for bovine coronavirus
What qualities are you looking for in a summer research student?
Interested in research and willing to learn, self-motivated and hard-working, and team player
KATHRYN DUNCAN, DVM, Ph.D.
LETITIA FANUCCHI, DVM, Ph.D.
Department ofVeterinary Clinical Sciences
Clinical Assistant Professor
Email: Le.fanucchi@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interests:
Applied animal behavior.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- White coat syndrome in dogs
- Validation of Fear Free techniques used in dogs and cats.
Expected qualities in a summer research student?
I have done summer projects with students in the past at Washington State University, and published the work, granting me a research award in the past.
JENNIFER GRINDSTAFF, Ph.D.
Department ofIntegrative Biology
Associate Professor
Email: jen.grindstaff@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interests:
- Avian microbiome, stress physiology, latitudinal variation in life history strategies
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- The gut microbiota as a facilitator of adaptation to environmental change
Expected qualities in a summer research student?
- Curious, reliable, team player, motivated
KELLY HARRISON, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: hkellys@okstate.edu
Phone: 405-744-9784
Expert profile
Current research interests:
My research focuses on sex-specific differences in pathogenesis of sexually transmitted infections. We use neurotropic herpesviruses: Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2) as a model of infection. Specifically, we investigate the role hormones and hormone receptors play in severity of herpes outbreaks with special emphasis on women and gender minorities.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Progesterone receptor activation promotes HSV-1 reactivation from latency
- Estrogen receptor alpha activation inhibits HSV-1 reactivation from latency
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Self-motivated and hard working, attention to detail and critical thinker, willing to learn and work with a team, and excited and enthusiastic.
MYRON HINSDALE, DVM, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Associate Professor
Email: myron.hinsdale@okstate.edu
Expert Profile

Current Research Interest Areas:
Generally, how the extracellular matrix of organs affects tissue recovery/regeneration post-injusry. Liver and renal genetic disease, infectious disease of the respiratory system and stem cells in metabolic diseases.
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Oocyte implantation and proteoglycans
- Inhibitors of adipose stem cell adipogenesis
- Brain proteoglycans and structural changes
- Pulmonary proteoglycans and lung disease
What qualities are you looking for in a summer research student?
Curious, studious, excited about learning new techniques in and ideas about mechanisms of how organs maintain homeostasis.
REED HOLYOK, DVM, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences
Regents Professor
Email: reed.holyoak@okstate.edu
Phone: 405-612-7333
Expert Profile
Current research interest areas:
Equine reproductive tract microbiome, reproductive infectious disease, oviductal blockage imaging and treatment, utilizing simulation models in augmenting instruction in clinical theriogenology, collaborating with and assisting research endeavors of our new faculty members.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Utilizing simulation models in augmenting instruction in clinical theriogenology, or others as a collaborator.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Open minded, dedicated, reliable, and inquisitive learner
SUDHAKAR JHA, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Associate Professor
Email: sjha@okstate.edu

Current Research Interest Areas:
Our research focuses on how hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) sense and respond to infection, with a special emphasis on the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) as new regulators of host-pathogen interactions. HSCs are the foundation of the immune system, yet the molecular mechanisms that control their behavior during bacterial and viral infections remain poorly understood. This project investigates circRNAs as stable, versatile non-coding RNAs that may coordinate immune responses by regulating gene expression, microRNA activity, and immune cell differentiation. Using live infection models and advanced RNA sequencing techniques, we aim to identify infection-responsive circRNAs in HSCs and define their roles in immune regulation. This work sits at the crossroads of stem cell biology, RNA biology, and infectious disease, with strong translational potential for circRNA-based biomarkers or therapies. Students involved will gain practical experience in RNA-seq analysis and functional genomics and produce high-impact data.
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
Decoding Circular RNA Networks in Hematopoietic Stem Cells During Host–Pathogen Interactions
What qualities are you looking for in a summer research student?
We are seeking a highly motivated and intellectually curious student with a strong interest in biomedical research, especially at the intersection of stem cell biology, RNA biology, immunology, and infectious diseases. The ideal candidate should be eager to learn, comfortable asking questions, and willing to engage deeply with both experimental work and data analysis. Prior laboratory experience in molecular biology, cell culture, or basic bioinformatics is a plus but not required; enthusiasm, reliability, and a strong work ethic are must-haves. We value students who are detail-oriented, organized, and capable of working independently as well as part of a collaborative research team. An openness to interdisciplinary approaches and a genuine interest in producing high-quality preliminary data for publication and future grant applications are important. This position is ideal for students considering graduate, DVM/PhD, or research-focused clinical careers.
MYRIAM JIMENEZ. DVM, MS, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences
Assistant Professor Food Animal Medicine and Surgery/Field Services
Email: myrjime@okstate.edu
Phone: 352-232-8946
Current research areas:
- Metabolic disorders in food and fiber animals
- Neonatal weakness in food animal species
- Immunology
- Genetics
- Food animal medicine
- Reproduction
- Clinical service questions
- Lameness
- Physiology
- Disease control and prevention
- Epidemiology

Potential research projects for a summer research student:
For this particular project it will be working on alpaca lineages and correlating them to parasite resistance, resiliency, or susceptibility.

Expected qualities in a summer research student:
- Willingness to learn
- Use of Excel
- Interest in data analyses
CLINTON JONES, Ph.D.
Department ofVeterinary Pathobiology
Sitlington Professor of Infectious Diseases
Email:clint.jones10@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
My lab works on two neurotropic herpesviruses: bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) and herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). Our research is focused on how these viruses, establish, maintain, and reactivate from latency. Recently, we have been most interested in understanding how stress induces reactivation from latency, and how stress activates viral transcription.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
A summer research student would likely become involved with understanding how stress-induced transcription factors regulate viral replication and gene expression.
Expected qualities are you looking for in a summer research student
The ideal student will have an enthusiasm for science and willingness to work hard in a team setting.
DALE KELLEY, DVM, Ph.D.
VERONIQUE LACOMBE, DVM, Ph.D.
Department ofPhysiological Sciences Professor
Email: veronique.lacombe@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
The Comparative Metabolism Laboratory investigates glucose metabolism during metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes, insulin resistance and obesity) and novel metabolic therapeutic strategies that could benefit both veterinary and human patients. Diabetes and obesity, global epidemic diseases, are significant risk factors for cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. One of the major pathogenic processes underlying these metabolic diseases results from a deficit of insulin production or action, with dysfunctional glucose uptake into insulin-sensitive tissues. Despite intensive research, the mechanisms of altered glucose transport observed during diabetes are still not well elucidated. Therefore, the main current mission of our research laboratory is to investigate the regulation of glucose transport in insulin-sensitive tissues (e.g., cardiac and skeletal muscles, and adipose tissues), but also in the lung and lamellar tissue. Glucose uptake from the bloodstream is tightly regulated by a family of specialized proteins called glucose transporters. Because every cell expresses these glucose transporters, they are recognized as major regulators of whole-body metabolism and thus, key pharmacological targets. The strength of our research program is to use a unique comparative approach by investigating both small and large animal models of metabolic diseases, spanning from transgenic mice to horses.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
The student will be involved in a translational research project on glucose metabolism with potential therapeutic applications for patients with diabetes, cardiovascular diseases or respiratory infections. The student will learn research skills using biochemistry and molecular techniques (e.g., Western Blot and PCR techniques) and/or will develop proper handling skills for rodents. The student will also perform data analysis, interpret the results and present at the lab meeting. The student will be part of team, which includes graduate and undergraduate students.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Curious, motivated, enthusiastic to learn and explore new field.
LIN LIU, Ph.D.
EDRALIN LUCAS, Ph.D.
Department ofNutritional Sciences
Jim and Lynne Williams Professor
Email: edralin.a.lucas@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
Bioactive food components in chronic disease prevention including obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, inflammation and osteoporosis. Recently, we are exploring the effects of functional food on gut health including the gut microbiome and its implications in chronic disease prevention.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Effect of pinto beans on gut and bone health in estrogen deficiency
Expected qualities in a summer research student?
Hard working
ERIKA LUTTER, Ph.D.
MAYARA MAGGIOLI, DVM, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: mayara.maggioli@okstate.edu
Expert Profile
Current Research Interests:
My research focuses on veterinary immunology, host-pathogen interactions, and vaccine development. I am particularly interested in understanding immune responses to RNA viruses associated with bovine respiratory disease complex, including Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV) and Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV).
Potential Research Projects for a Summer Research Student:
Evaluation of host-pathogen interactions and immunomodulation in cell lines during BRSV infection.
Participating in eventual animal experiments in cattle, sheep and goats.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
A highly motivated, hard-working student with strong ethical conduct.
LARA MAXWELL, DVM, Ph.D., DACVCP
Department of Physiological Sciences,
Interim Department Head
Email: lk.maxwell@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
Dr. Maxwell earned both her DVM and PhD degrees from the University of Florida. Following a stint in small animal practice, she then entered a clinical pharmacology residency at UC-Davis and is now a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology. Currently, she is a Professor of Pharmacology at Oklahoma State University. Dr. Maxwell has enjoyed exploring pharmacology in a wide spectrum of animal species, from iguanas to racehorses. Her current research interests are similarly broad, spanning the use of antiviral drugs for Monkey B virus to the mathematical description of THC disposition. However, Dr. Maxwell’s overall enthusiasm lies in maximizing the safe and effective use of the many drugs available to veterinary medicine. Areas of interest include veterinary pharmacology, including use of therapeutics in small animal and equine patients, pharmacokinetic /toxicokinetic modeling techniques, including PK/PD modeling, physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling, population PK modeling, analysis of drugs in biological samples, in vitro metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Possible summer projects include pharmacokinetics and HPLC and/or LC/MS analysis of fluorescein, cyclosporin, ganciclovir, gabapentin, or GS-441524 in domestic species.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
The ideal student will be chemistry and pharmacology minded with an interest in writing and publishing our results.
ELIZABETH MCCULLAGH, Ph.D.
Department of Integrative Biology
Assistant Professor
Email: Elizabeth.mccullagh@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
Neuroscience, autism, mammalian hearing, anuran hearing, anatomy, physiology, behavior
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Myelination in a mouse model of autism as a driver of auditory hypersensitivity.
- Hearing differences across frequencies in a mouse model of autism
- Sex differences in hearing
- Monogamous prairie voles as a hearing model organism
- Tree frog hearing
Expected qualities in a summer research student?
Motivation and willingness to learn.
JOAO MORAES, DVM, Ph.D.
Department of Animal and Food Sciences
Assistant Professor
Email: moraesjgn@okstate.edu
Phone: (405) 744-9266
Expert profile
What are your current research interest areas:
Assisted reproductive technology.
Potential research projects for a summer research student.
Establishment of protocols and conditions for culturing embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from bovine blastocysts
What qualities are you looking for in a summer research student?
Enthusiasm for research, intellectual curiosity, motivation and initiative, ethical conduct, ability to work well in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research setting.
SUNIL MORE, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D.
Department ofVeterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: sunil.more@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interest Areas:
SARS-CoV-2 and Secondary bacterial pneumonia, digital pathology
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
SARS-CoV-2 infection predisposes hosts to secondary bacterial infections
Expected qualities in a summer research student
Interest in disease pathogenesis research using cell culture and animal models.
RANDY MORGENSTEIN, Ph.D.
PETER MURIANA, Ph.D.
Professor (Food Microbiology)
Professorship in Microbial Food Safety Department ofAnimal &
Food Sciences and the R.M. Kerr Food & Ag Products Center Advance Foods-Gilliland
Email: peter.muriana@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interests:
- Probiotic bacteria for enhanced feed utilization in swine 2. Safety of South African air-dried beef (Droëwors)
- Characterization of probiotic spore-forming bacteria (Bacillus sp.) for use in food
- Identification, characterization, and application of bacteriocin-producing bacteria as food bio preservatives.
Potential research projects for a summer research student: A project in any of the 4 topics listed above, 3 of which I am PI on current USDA-NIFA grants, and another is discretionary funding via my Professorship funding.
Qualities expected in a summer research student: Dependable, hardworking, works well with others, and capable of working independently
ARAVINDAN NATARAJAN, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Professor, Kerr Endowed Chair
Email: Natarajan.aravindan@okstate.edu
Phone: (405) 744-6292
Expert profile
Current research interest areas:
In our Molecular Oncology laboratory, the research focus centered on Cancer Biology (disease resistance and evolution), Molecular Signaling, Radiation Oncology, Developmental Therapeutics and Radiation Biology (non-targeted bystander/abscopal radio response, space radiation, carcinogenesis, and radiogenic cardiovascular disease). Our lab primarily studies cancer (Breast, Colon, Brain, Neuroblastoma etc.,) specific acquired genetic and molecular rearrangements those drive disease evolution, so as to develop new and effective therapeutic strategies. My special interest lies in investigating how and why some tumors keep evolving beyond intensive multimodal therapy.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
(i) Prognostic relevance of Aplin/Aplin-receptor for neuroblastoma, the extracranial solid tumor in infants; (ii) Tumor type- and cell-dependent radiation bystander response; (iii) Clonal divergence by RD3 in bladder cancer, (iv) Lineage transformation in endometrial cancer and disease resistance, (v) space radiation in hippocampal gene rearrangement etc.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Interest in learning molecular research, and not hesitating to ask questions. Innovative science comes from fresh minds.
GIRISH PATIL BVSC & AH, MVSC, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Teaching Assistant Professor, Veterinary Anatomy
Email: girish.patil@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current Research Interests:
Anatomy, Evolution
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Understanding osteology and modifications/differences in the bones of African spurred (Sulcata) tortoise and how it helps the animal in movement and survival.
Expected qualities in summer research student:
- Passionate
- Willing to work independently
- Interested in exotic animals and/anatomy
AMANDA SAMUELS, VMD, Ph.D., DACVIM-La
Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Equine Internal Medicine Assistant Clinical Professor
Email: Amanda.samuels@okstate.edu
Phone: 303-549-0120
Current research interest:
Metabolic disease, immunologic response in foals

Titles of potential research projects:
Studying equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) in donkeys. This project will be a mix of clinical work with donkeys and lab-based experiments. The overarching goal is to better understand the pathophysiology of EMS in donkeys. We will be collaborating with Dr. Van Epps at the University of Pennsylvania looking at insulin, leptin, and adipokin levels in healthy donkeys. We plan to perform oral sugar tests and radiograph their feet in addition to measuring hormones for a comprehensive understanding of EMS in donkeys. We will also be obtaining pharmacokinetics and dynamics data in healthy donkeys with two SGLT2 inhibitors (canagliflozin and ertugliflozin).

Qualities expected in a summer research student:
Hard-working, motivated, and externally driven- does not need to have previous research experience.
JOY SCARIA, Ph.D.
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Associate Professor
Walter R. Sitlington Endowed Chair in Infectious Diseases
Email: joy.scaria@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interests
- Developing new methods to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections
- Investigating the role of the human microbiome in improving gut health
- Understanding the impact of plant-derived bioactive compounds on the gut–brain axis
Titles of potential research projects:
- Antibiotic–microbial metabolite strategy to mitigate multidrug-resistance
- Elucidating the mechanisms of gut–brain axis modulation by flavonoid-metabolizing bacteria
- Investigating the role of mucin-adherent gut bacteria in improving gut integrity
Qualities expected in a summer research student:
An ideal student should exhibit curiosity, perseverance, strong organizational skills, and a willingness to learn. By combining a solid work ethic with effective communication and a commitment to teamwork, they should be able to make meaningful contributions to the lab and use that experience as a foundation for a successful research career.
RUTH SCIMECA, VMD, MSc, Ph.D., DACVM
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Assistant Professor
Email: ruth.scimeca@okstate.edu
Current research interests:
Protozoan parasites of cattle, dogs and cats. Dirofilaria immitis, vector borne diseases, host-parasite interactions, parasitology diagnostics, tick cell culture models.
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Willing to learn, able to work with other lab members as well as independently.
CIARAN SHAUGHNESSY, Ph.D.
Department ofIntegrative Biology
Assistant Professor of Integrative Physiology
Email: ciaran.shaughnessy@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interests:
We study ion channel (mainly CFTR) function and pharmacology in airway and intestinal epithelia in the context of cystic fibrosis (CF). We mechanistically investigate the basic function of CFTR and its role in regulating hydromineral balance on airway and intestinal epithelia, and we explore novel and clinically feasible pharmacological approaches to improve function of CF-causing mutant CFTR. Additionally, we perform comparative in vitro studies to understand how CFTR function evolved.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Receptor-mediated activation of CFTR
- Novel pathways of CFTR activation in the airway and intestine
- Species differences in CFTR function and pharmacology
- Functional Evolution of CFTR
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Curious about the subject, passionate about research, organized and motivated to develop independence, willing to work with others.
NEERAJ SINGH, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Assistant Professor
Email: Neeraj.singh@okstate.edu
Phone: 405-744-6257
Expert Profile
Current research interests:
Neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, Neurotoxicology
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Role of the microglial genes in modulating pathology, amyloid plaque load, and memory dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease mice model.
-Identifying genes regulating neurotoxicity associated with Amyloid beta in invitro neuronal cell culture.
Expectedqualities in a summer research student:
Have an interest in the field of immunology and neurodegenerative disease. Willing to learn new techniques. Comfortable in working with transgenic mice models.
LINDSAY STARKEY, DVM, Ph.D, DACVM
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Associate Professor—Parasitology
Email: Lindsay.starkey@okstate.edu
Current research interests
Vectors and vector-borne infections (primarily small animal: heartworm and tick-borne diseases)
Titles of potential research projects:
Surveillance for tick-borne pathogens of one-health importance in Oklahoma, surveillance for a rare tick-borne pathogen of dogs in SE US
Qualities expected in a summer research student:
Self-starter/independent, excellent communication skills (specifically regarding project updates and needs)
PATRICK STEPHENS, Ph.D.
Department ofIntegrative Biology
Assistant Professor
Email:patrick.stephens@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interest areas: Understanding large-scale disease dynamics, particularly the factors that drive outbreak risk and that have the potential to lead to epidemics and pandemics. In my lab, we use computational methods to build statistical models of outbreak risk factors. Current projects include exploring how eco-environmental and socioeconomic factors affect spillover and outbreak risk of Ebolavirus in sub-Saharan Africa, and exploring how armed conflicts can affect disease dynamics in general.
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Understanding the drivers of zoonotic vs endemic tuberculosis outbreaks
- Contrasting the drivers of hemorrhagic fever outbreaks of different pathogens in Africa
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Strong interest in learning computational skills such as data analysis and statistical modelling with R. At least basic knowledge of introductory statistics and hypothesis testing.
MADHAN SUBRAMANIAN, BVSc, Ph.D.
BRIANNE TAYLOR, DVM, MS, DACVP
Department of Veterinary Pathobiology
Clinical Assistant Professor, Anatomic Pathologist
Email: Brianne.taylor@okstate.edu
Current research interests
Infectious disease, providing collaborative (histo)pathology support for a variety of research projects
Qualities expected in a summer research student:
At this point, I would be happy to provide pathology support to one/multiple SRTP projects as my schedule allows. I don’t necessarily have a specific project in mind, and I really enjoy collaborating with others
DAVID USSERY, Ph.D.
Department of Physiological Sciences
Professor and INTERACT Director
Email: David.Ussery@okstate.edu
Phone: (865) 266-3451
Current research interest areas:
Genomics
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
Experimental: Sequencing microbrial DNA, using Oxford Nanopore flow cells Computational: Comparing a set of bacterial genomes, using R-BioTools
Expected qualities in a summer research student?
I love to work with students who are highly motivated and interested in learning new things.
BRUCE WALDMAN, Ph.D.
Department ofBiology
Professor
Email:bruce.waldman@okstate.edu
Phone:405-744-1715

Current research interest areas:
- Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) variation and susceptibility to fungal diseases
- Role of gut microbiome dysbiosis in affecting susceptibility to amphibian chytridiomycosis
- Ecotoxiciological effects on disease susceptibility and underlying mechanisms
- Evolution of pathogenicity among competing fungal pathogen lineages
- Impacts of OneHealth disruptors on threatened and endangered species
Titles of potential research projects for a summer research student:
Several projects are available in the general areas described above
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
Genuine interest in understanding the biological processes underlying disease susceptibility.
KAREN WOZNIAK, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Microbiology & Molecular Genetics
Email: karen.wozniak@okstate.edu
Expert profile
Current research interests: Innate immune responses to fungal infection by Cryptococcus neoformans, novel antifungal drug discovery for new anti-cryptococcal compounds.
Potential research projects for a summer research student:
- Mechanisms of antifungal activity of novel antifungal compounds
- Innate immune cell antifungal activity
Expected qualities in a summer research student:
I am looking for a student who is interested in learning lab techniques and learning about basic science research so they can apply this knowledge in their future career as a veterinarian.

MELLISSA CROSSWHITE, Ph.D.

Department of Animal and Food Sciences

Assistant Professor

Email: mellissa.crosswhite@okstate.edu

Phone: 405-744-6073

Current research interests: Beef cattle reproduction/physiology

Potential research projects for a summer research student: Various

What qualities are you looking for in a summer research student?

· Interested in research

· Dependable

· Self-starter

· Proactive

· Intellectually curious

· Takes initiative

· Organized

· Receptive to feedback

· Professional

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Veterinary Medicine

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