The Department of Veterinary Pathobiology is an integral component of the College of Veterinary Medicine that provides a unique and critical link between the basic and clinical sciences. Our mission is to acquire, advance and disseminate knowledge in the fields of pathology, parasitology, microbiology, immunology, laboratory animal medicine, comparative medicine, genetics and related disciplines that will ultimately lead to better diagnosis, control and prevention of animal diseases. We integrate this knowledge into the teaching, research and service programs within the college and across our campus.

Our curricular goals are to provide knowledge and to foster the development of skills that will ensure the success of professional students in veterinary practice and/or as professional scientists. We provide instruction in both the veterinary student curriculum and in graduate education in many sub-disciplines, including pathology, clinical pathology, immunology, parasitology, virology, genetics, and comparative medicine. We strive to create an environment where students can develop a love for lifetime learning and develop their independent problem-solving skills. The department offers residency programs that prepare graduate veterinarians for proficiency and eligibility for certification in the American College of Veterinary Pathology, the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, the American College of Veterinary Microbiology, and the American College of Toxicology.

The goal of the research program is to foster the advancement of scientific knowledge and technology, especially in the sub-disciplines of pathology, comparative medicine and microbiology. Our clinical service laboratories (RADIL and VMDL) and research center facilities (RRRC, NSRRC, MMRRC) provide a marvelous opportunity for faculty and students to participate in collaborative and interdisciplinary research projects.

The goals of our service component are to provide quality, state-of-the-art diagnostic service to veterinarians, animal owners, academia and private industry through the activities of the VMDL and the RADIL. Through our service activities, we strive to identify the causes of new diseases, to promote the health of agricultural, companion and research animals, and to enhance the animal industry, both in Missouri and globally.

Our extension component provides knowledge to the public by providing educational programs that aid society.