Since her childhood, Dr. Heather Shive (Figure 1) has been interested in working with animals. This interest, combined with a love of scientific inquiry, led her on the path to becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) who specializes in anatomic pathology, as well as a cancer researcher.

As an immunologist studying HIV, latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), and possible treatments, Dr. Riti Sharan (Figure 1) has been intrigued by the human body since high school, particularly the complex and varied mechanisms by which it defends itself against pathogens.

For as long as she can remember, Dr. Xuan Pan had dreamed of a career in veterinary medicine. A long-time animal lover who grew up with pets in her household...

Dr. Mauricio Martins has long been fascinated by the complexity of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its relevance to public health. “The virus…is able to overcome the most sophisticated defenses in the immune system,” Dr. Martins explained. As an immunologist, he is interested in developing new ways to harness the immune system to eliminate HIV.

Interactions between humans and companion animals have been shown to produce mental, social, and physiological benefits in children and adults. Therapy dogs, for example, can provide individually tailored support for patients. 

ORIP grant programs enable veterinarians to participate in biomedical research.