Vishnu Manikantan, BVSc&AH
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Vishnu Manikantan, BVSc&AH, a graduate student at Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, is the Elanco Resident in Veterinary Parasitology. Dr. Manikantan earned his veterinary degree from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, India, in 2018. He is currently pursuing doctoral and residency training under the guidance of Dr. Sriveny Dangoudoubiyam, assistant professor of Veterinary Parasitology. Vishnu’s research focus is Baylisascaris procyonis, the raccoon roundworm. His work aims to deepen the understanding of this parasite, contributing to the field of veterinary parasitology and improving human-animal health.
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Five Questions with NCVP Elanco Resident Dr. Vishnu Manikantan
Tell us a little about your background. Where are you from, what are some of the defining experiences of your life?
I was born in Kerala, located on the southwestern tip of India, fondly referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’. I have spent most of my free time enjoying the great outdoors, traveling with friends, playing various sports, and savoring diverse culinary traditions. After earning my veterinary degree, I worked as an emergency veterinarian for 2 years, honing my clinical skills.
How did you initially become interested in veterinary medicine?
My interest in veterinary medicine began with a love for science and animals. Growing up, I was always intrigued by scientific concepts and enjoyed learning how things worked. Coupled with my affection for animals, this curiosity led me to explore a career that combined both passions.
How did you become interested in parasitology? When did you know it would be your field?
My interest in parasitology developed while working as a veterinarian, where I encountered and treated numerous parasitic diseases. I became fascinated by the complex interactions between parasites and their hosts, and the intricate life cycles and survival strategies of parasites intrigued me. It was during this time that I realized parasitology was my calling.
What focus have you chosen for your residency? Where will your research efforts be directed?
For my residency, I have chosen to focus on Baylisascaris procyonis, the raccoon roundworm. My research efforts will be directed towards understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in host-parasite interactions and immune evasion strategies employed by the parasite. By uncovering these mechanisms, I aim to contribute to the development of new diagnostic tools, treatment modalities, and preventive measures to better manage and control infections caused by this parasite.
What is your plan after your residency? What would you like to accomplish over the course of your career?
After completing my residency, I plan to continue my research in veterinary parasitology, potentially pursuing a faculty position in an academic setting. I aim to contribute to the field through both teaching and research, mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and scientists. I am very excited to see where this path takes me, and I look forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead.
I was born in Kerala, located on the southwestern tip of India, fondly referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’. I have spent most of my free time enjoying the great outdoors, traveling with friends, playing various sports, and savoring diverse culinary traditions. After earning my veterinary degree, I worked as an emergency veterinarian for 2 years, honing my clinical skills.
How did you initially become interested in veterinary medicine?
My interest in veterinary medicine began with a love for science and animals. Growing up, I was always intrigued by scientific concepts and enjoyed learning how things worked. Coupled with my affection for animals, this curiosity led me to explore a career that combined both passions.
How did you become interested in parasitology? When did you know it would be your field?
My interest in parasitology developed while working as a veterinarian, where I encountered and treated numerous parasitic diseases. I became fascinated by the complex interactions between parasites and their hosts, and the intricate life cycles and survival strategies of parasites intrigued me. It was during this time that I realized parasitology was my calling.
What focus have you chosen for your residency? Where will your research efforts be directed?
For my residency, I have chosen to focus on Baylisascaris procyonis, the raccoon roundworm. My research efforts will be directed towards understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in host-parasite interactions and immune evasion strategies employed by the parasite. By uncovering these mechanisms, I aim to contribute to the development of new diagnostic tools, treatment modalities, and preventive measures to better manage and control infections caused by this parasite.
What is your plan after your residency? What would you like to accomplish over the course of your career?
After completing my residency, I plan to continue my research in veterinary parasitology, potentially pursuing a faculty position in an academic setting. I aim to contribute to the field through both teaching and research, mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and scientists. I am very excited to see where this path takes me, and I look forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead.