Brandão, Gilliam earn 2024 Zoetis awards
Thursday, October 24, 2024
Media Contact: Taylor Bacon | Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator | 405-744-6728 | taylor.bacon@okstate.edu
Teaching, research and clinical sciences are just a few areas Dr. João Brandão can impact his students.
An associate professor in zoological medicine at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Brandão received the prestigious 2024 Zoetis Veterinary Research Excellence Award.
The award is given to an individual who fosters innovative research, on which the scientific advancement of the veterinary profession depends. The recipient does so by practicing outstanding research efforts and productivity.
“Receiving this research award is a humbling experience. It signifies that my efforts have been noticed by my colleagues, and I appreciate their support,” Brandão said.
Brandão received his LMV from the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal. Upon graduation, Brandão completed an exotic animal internship in the United Kingdom in Swindon. After completion, Brandão moved to the U.S. to complete a second internship in exotic animals at Tufts University in North Grafton, Massachusetts. After furthering his education and receiving a master’s degree, Brandão accepted a faculty position at OSU.
During his 10 years as a faculty member, Brandão has come to enjoy the challenges that come with the different roles he plays as a faculty member and their diversities.
“It is fulfilling to see my students becoming more confident with the management of a case and being able to understand and incorporate the information from a scientific paper and how that can impact their clinical judgment and management of the case,” Brandão said.
Brandão researches a wide range of topics. Some of his main interests are investigating methods to decrease stress and pain in animals, endocrinology, coagulation, developing new diagnostic tests, and evaluating their application to zoological medicine.
He finds it very important to include students, house officers and other faculty members in his research. By involving students and house officers, Brandão hopes to help shape the futures of young professionals. Encouraging students and young veterinarians to pursue their research interests is vital for the profession.
“We are fortunate to have talented and dedicated faculty members like Dr. Brandão,” said Dr. Carlos Risco, dean of the OSU CVM. “As a result of his dedication to research and clinical services, Dr. Brandão is a tremendous asset to the college and its students.”
Dr. Lyndi Gilliam, an equine internal medicine professor, received the Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teaching Award.
After watching a tired, exhausted veterinary student question if pursuing care for a sick foal was in its favor, Gilliam found a pleasant surprise three days later when she returned to the clinic to a healthy, nursing foal. This changed her perspective forever.
“She had a completely different perspective on how things can recover and that was very rewarding to be a part of,” Gilliam said.
The award is chosen by faculty and students and awarded to a faculty member who they felt, through their teaching, dedication and leadership, contributed significantly to the advancement of their education.
Gilliam received her DVM from OSU and started as a faculty member in 2006 after her residency.
“Being a faculty member allows me to have great variety in my job,” Gilliam said. “My time is split between clinical service, teaching and research, so there is never a dull moment, and I get to enjoy doing all the things I am passionate about in one job.”
Being a faculty member allows Gilliam to educate, inspire, and encourage each of her students.
“We are grateful to have devoted faculty like Dr. Gilliam,” Risco said. “Her dedication to teaching is inspiring, and the CVM is better because of her contributions.”
Photos By: Taylor Bacon
Story By: Kinsey Reed | Vet Voices Magazine