MN VDL welcomes new poultry-focused veterinary pathologist

The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary
Medicine has welcomed Dr. Varvara Semenova as its newest poultry-focused veterinary
pathologist.

Semenova joined the college’s Department of Veterinary Population Medicine (VPM) as an
assistant professor in September 2025. With an extensive background in infectious disease and
avian pathology, Semenova’s experience in veterinary medicine and pathology is diverse. She’s
excited to work on poultry diagnostics with an interdisciplinary team of researchers and
veterinarians, both in St. Paul and at the Minnesota Poultry Testing Laboratory in Willmar.

“I feel very privileged to have achieved my lifelong goal of becoming a veterinarian,” Semenova
says. “I am excited to collaborate with producers and veterinarians in Minnesota and beyond to
provide the highest level of diagnostic service, while continuing to grow my research in avian
pathology and infectious disease.”

Originally from Los Angeles, California, Semenova developed an early passion for infectious
diseases and avian pathology while studying at the University of California, Davis School of
Veterinary Medicine, where she earned her PhD. She later pursued a residency at the
University of Florida, where she honed her expertise in diagnostic pathology across a wide
range of species, including companion animals, livestock, exotic, and wildlife species.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Semenova to our team. Her exceptional expertise in avian
pathology and infectious diseases will be a tremendous asset to our poultry diagnostic services
and research initiatives,” says Hemant Naikare, professor and VDL director.