Bonnie Gunn removing samples from a freezer.
Research
Discovery and Innovation
Our scientists conduct research to improve the health of animals and people.
College of Veterinary Medicine > Research

Research

Advancing Biomedical and Veterinary Research at WSU

At the WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, our researchers lead groundbreaking studies in neuroscience, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, public health, and cell biology and genetics—driving the development of innovative medical technologies, therapies, vaccines, and medications. We also conduct research in epidemiology, infectious diseases, integrative physiology, and veterinary clinical and translational sciences to improve both public health and animal health worldwide.

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Research statistics at a glance

$49.1 million in research spending. More than half is spent on infectious disease research.
1st in CDC research funding by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges.
$32.3 million in research grant funding from state, federal, and private funds.
3rd in total federal research funding. by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges.

Research news

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Research in the news

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College research centers and initiatives

Profile of six-point bull elk.

Elk Hoof Disease

WSU leads the state in monitoring and assessing the causes of the disease

Zoonotic Disease

Conducting ongoing research on some of the world’s most serious bacterial, parasitic, and viral zoonotic diseases
Veterinarian swabbing dogs mouth

Veterinary Clinical Research

WSU’s Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences is a leader in animal clinical research, advancing innovations that improve animal health and well‑being. By studying diseases, treatments, and preventive care in real clinical settings, our researchers deliver science‑based solutions that lead to better outcomes for animals and the people who care for them.

View veterinary clinical research stories

Research opportunities for undergraduate students

Undergraduate students can begin working in research labs as early as their first year. Our students study microbiology, neuroscience, public health, biochemistry, or genetics and cell biology and gain hands-on experience alongside leading faculty. Programs like the EschLEAD undergraduate research program support students across STEM, social sciences, and the humanities.

Research opportunities for undergraduate students
2 out of 3 undergraduate students in the college will conduct research while at WSU
Summer fellows

Veterinary Student research program

An engaging summer opportunity to introduce veterinary students to biomedical research

Learn more about Veterinary Student Summer Research Fellowship Program

Meet our researchers

View all meet our researchers
Group of winners from the 2025 Research Symposium.

College Research Symposium

The annual event showcases research by our undergraduate, graduate, and professional veterinary medical students, postdoctoral researchers, and veterinary residents and interns. During the symposium the college also recognizes excellence in research with a keynote address by the Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence faculty recipient.

Next Research Symposium is October 2026

Learn more about the College Research Symposium

College & WSU research awards

View all research awards

Support biomedical research

Discoveries by our biomedical researchers are the foundation for medical innovations that prevent and treat diseases in people and animals. 

Questions about giving? Contact Lynne Haley or 509-335-5021.

Give to the Fundamental Research Fund