The Lincoln Memorial University-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) has announced the appointment of Dr. Ashutosh Verma as the associate dean of Basic Sciences and Research. Verma, a board-certified veterinary microbiologist, brings extensive experience in research and veterinary education to his new role.
Verma joined LMU-CVM in 2015, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He earned his professional degree in veterinary medicine and a master’s degree in animal biotechnology from India before pursuing his doctoral studies in equine infectious diseases at the University of Kentucky (UK). His post-doctoral work at the UK College of Medicine focused on the pathogenesis of leptospirosis and Lyme disease.
Before his tenure at LMU-CVM, Verma was a faculty member at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, where he taught Veterinary Bacteriology, provided diagnostic services, and continued his research on leptospirosis and other infectious diseases. Since joining LMU-CVM, he has served as the course director and instructor for Bacteriology-Mycology and Immunology courses and has played a pivotal role in developing the college’s research portfolio.
Verma’s current research focuses on host-pathogen interactions, molecular pathogenesis, identification of diagnostic candidates, and understanding the epidemiology of infectious diseases of veterinary importance. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of mammalian and non-mammalian reservoirs of leptospirosis in the region, identified biomarkers to distinguish naturally infected horses from those immunized with leptospiral vaccine, and explored interactions between animal tissues and pathogens.
Verma has served on the executive committee of the International Leptospirosis Society and various committees of the American College of Veterinary Microbiology. He is currently on the editorial board of several scientific journals. In his new role, Verma will lead the strategic development of LMU-CVM’s research program, foster collaborative research partnerships, increase opportunities for student involvement in research, and mentor early-career faculty.
“Dr. Verma’s dedication to veterinary medicine and his extensive research background make him an invaluable asset to LMU-CVM,” said Dean Stacy Anderson, DVM, PhD, DACVS-LA. “We are excited to see how his leadership will continue to advance our research initiatives and contribute to the academic growth of our students and faculty.”
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The LMU-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine is located on LMU’s main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee, with additional academic facilities in nearby Lee County, Virginia. LMU-CVM is an integral part of the University’s medical programs and provides real-world, community-based education in a collaborative learning environment. For more information about LMU-CVM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 6600 or visit us online at vetmed.LMUnet.edu.
