Gloria Gellin, who recently completed her PhD under Craig Carter, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVPM, Director of the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, had a unique journey.

“My interests have always been in veterinary medicine and animal health. I started my undergraduate work at Purdue University in pre-veterinary medicine but decided to transfer to Morehead State University’s vet tech program,” Gellin said.

After earning her AAS in veterinary technology from Morehead State, she completed her BS in animal science at UK. She became fascinated with microbiology after taking a class on the subject at Morehead State. This interest led her to UK once again for a master’s degree in microbiology.

She then accepted a research position with the UK Department of Surgery.

Although she had considered pursuing a PhD, Gellin said she was not certain about this path until after meeting with Carter.

Gellin began her MPH with a concentration in epidemiology under Carter’s guidance. While completing this degree, she also began working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture conducting research that focused on the impact of fescue toxicosis on the microbial population in the gut in livestock and horses.

“When I started working with the USDA, I was already enrolled in my MPH program. My experience working for the USDA and completion of the MPH inspired me to continue my education and finally begin a PhD,” she said.

When asked about Carter’s impact on her education and research, Gellin said, “Dr. Carter played a significant role in my education and research throughout both my MPH and PhD. His interest in leptospirosis and his immense knowledge in animal health was an inspiration for both my MPH and PhD. I couldn’t have had a better mentor.”

This high regard was not one sided. Serving as the chair of her PhD committee and as a collaborator on several research projects, Carter said, “She is an extremely hard worker, driven by a high scientific curiosity for new knowledge. When given a challenge or a difficult task, she stays on target until it is completed, consulting with her superiors as needed along the way to be sure she is staying on track.”

The research Gellin accomplished while completing her degree is at the core of why she enjoys her career.

“When I began my master’s in animal science, I found how much I loved doing research. You may (or may not) answer one question; however, this always opens the door to many more questions. It can sometimes be very frustrating, but research for me is very exciting and rewarding, which inspired me to pursue my PhD.”

Having recently completed her doctorate, Gellin said she is grateful for the people she has worked with along the way and that she remains passionate about her research. She plans continue to conduct impactful research in equine science and further the understanding of equine diseases.

Ryan Smith, a sophomore majoring in finance and marketing, is a communications and student relations intern with UK Ag Equine Programs.