Victoria Diaz, a third-year veterinary student at UTCVM, showcased her expertise at the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) Student Poster Competition. Diaz’s research poster, “In vitro feasibility of bovine and canine blood products as a source of xenotransfusion in swine,” placed in the top ten student posters at the 2024 AASV meeting held in Nashville February 26.

“My poster is about testing the compatibility of bovine and canine blood products for transfusion to swine,” explains Diaz. “We tested the blood via crossmatch and found that bovine blood is a highly promising source for swine and canine blood should never be used.”

The competition, held annually, serves as a platform for aspiring veterinarians to present their research and insights into various aspects of swine health management.

Diaz worked with UTCVM faculty Deanna Schaefer, Joe Smith, Pierre-Yves Mulon, Luca Giori, and Chiara Hampton on the project. Diaz, who is also a licensed veterinary medical technician has served as president of the Veterinary Anatomy Club, anesthesia chair of the Surgery Club, secretary of the student chapter of Latinx Veterinary Medical Association, student representative on the Knoxville Veterinary Medical Association, and served as the community service chair for her class. She is also a member of the Gamma Sigma Delta Honor Society of Agriculture. .