Johns Creek, Georgia, August, USA 10, 2026
Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health is highlighting the next generation of veterinary researchers following the 2026 Veterinary Scholars Symposium, which brought together more than 500 veterinary students, researchers, and industry leaders from over three dozen leading veterinary schools. Held August 6–8 in Raleigh, North Carolina, the annual event showcased emerging research addressing complex animal health and biomedical challenges. Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health and organized by the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, the symposium represents the culmination of the company’s long-running Veterinary Scholars Program, which has supported hands-on biomedical research training for nearly four decades.
Veterinary Researchers Recognized for Innovative Studies
Two researchers received the 2026 Boehringer Ingelheim Research Awards for their contributions to veterinary science. Isha Chauhan, a DVM/PhD student at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, received the Research Award for Veterinary Students for her work investigating early equine pregnancy loss. Her research used a genome-wide association study to identify genetic variants associated with pregnancy loss in horses. Chauhan analyzed more than 400 samples and identified mutations in key developmental genes that may contribute to early pregnancy failure. Her research is focused on improving understanding of the genetic factors involved in equine reproductive outcomes and could support future development of preimplantation and prenatal screening tools for horses. The research may also provide insights relevant to broader studies of pregnancy loss in human medicine.
Kevin Gustafson, DVM, PhD, received the 2026 Boehringer Ingelheim Research Award for Graduate Veterinarians for his doctoral research at the University of Missouri. His work investigated how the parental gut microbiome can influence fetal development and subsequently affect offspring behavior, metabolism, and brain function. Using behavioral testing, microbiome profiling, and genomic analyses, Gustafson investigated mechanisms through which differences in the maternal gut microbiome can influence fetal neurodevelopment, including changes involving gut metabolite production, hippocampal DNA methylation, and gene expression.
Veterinary Scholars Program Builds Research Talent
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Established in 1989, the Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program introduces first- and second-year veterinary students to biomedical research and provides participants with practical research experience and scientific mentorship. Over nearly 40 years, the program has helped develop a network of researchers working across animal health, human health, academia, industry, and public health. The program emphasizes hands-on research and encourages veterinary students to investigate complex scientific questions while developing technical expertise.
Boehringer Ingelheim said the initiative is designed to help participants build the confidence and curiosity required to pursue careers focused on scientific discovery and innovation. The 2026 symposium provided an opportunity for students to present their research and interact with researchers and industry professionals. The company said the connections created through the event are intended to strengthen collaboration and help advance solutions to important animal-health challenges.
Boehringer Expands Support for Animal Health Science
Boehringer Ingelheim’s support for veterinary research extends beyond the annual symposium. The company provides vaccines and parasite-prevention treatments to veterinary schools across the United States, supporting community and shelter outreach programs and giving students practical experience. Veterinarians employed by the company also participate in educational activities, provide instruction, and engage with veterinary schools and community initiatives. The Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation Animal Health Program has additionally committed $2.5 million over three years to address critical challenges facing the veterinary profession, including strengthening the pipeline of future veterinarians.
The 2026 Veterinary Scholars Symposium and Research Awards highlight the importance of investing in veterinary science and biomedical research to address emerging and persistent animal-health challenges. The work presented by Chauhan, Gustafson, and the broader Veterinary Scholars cohort demonstrates how research into genetics, reproductive health, microbiome biology, and neurodevelopment can contribute to advances in animal health while potentially generating insights relevant to human health.
Source: Boehringer Ingelheim press release
