The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), in collaboration with MSD Animal Health, is delighted to announce that Ms. Sivaranjani Ramanathan has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Michael J. Day Scholarship. This scholarship supports veterinary students conducting groundbreaking research in small companion animal infectious diseases, clinical vaccinology, or immunology.
The Michael J. Day Scholarship is designed to encourage high-quality, innovative research in areas that will advance the health and well-being of small companion animals. The 2024 scholarship garnered 22 impressive applications, all reflecting the passion and dedication of the next generation of veterinary professionals.
After a rigorous selection process, Ms. Sivaranjani Ramanathan’s project, titled “Determining Resistance to Nirmatrelvir in Companion Animal Coronaviruses Using a FlipGFP Protease Assay”, was selected as the winning proposal. This project promises to provide critical insights into how companion animal coronaviruses may develop resistance to certain antiviral drugs.
Ms. Sivaranjani Ramanathan, currently a student at the Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, India, will conduct her research at the Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK, under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Goldhill. Ms. Ramanathan has demonstrated excellence in veterinary sciences throughout her academic career, participating in various research projects, including studies on swine viruses, canine parvovirus, and antibiotic resistance in poultry. Her numerous accolades include the prestigious Khorana Scholarship and recognition at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
“We are thrilled to award this year’s Michael J. Day Scholarship to Ms. Ramanathan. Her research has the potential to make a significant impact on the field of veterinary medicine, particularly in understanding drug resistance in companion animal viruses,” said Professor Mary Marcondes, Chair of WSAVA Vaccination Committee.
We’d like to congratulate Ms. Ramanathan and wish her the very best as she embarks on this important research journey!