DAFVM Spotlight Employee: Michael Talavera
Michael Talavera
Clinical Pathology Resident
College of Veterinary Medicine
Years in position/service to MSU: 1.5
After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, Dr. Michael Talavera realized his true passion was in research and diagnostics, rather than direct patient care.
“I had a quarter-life crisis at 25,” he laughed. “But you’re never too old to pursue what excites you.”
Now a resident veterinarian at the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Talavera is working toward board certification in clinical pathology. Each day, he analyzes samples -- saliva, blood, urine, and tissues -- to diagnose conditions such as cancer, infections, toxicity, and immune disorders. His team communicates these findings to treating veterinarians, ensuring accurate diagnoses and proper care.
“I strive to ensure every sample examined on my microscope gets the attention to detail and a high diagnostic standard,” Talavera said.
In addition to his lab work, Talavera lectures veterinary students, publishes case studies, and presents at national conferences. He is passionate about removing the fear from medical diagnoses, understanding the anxiety that owners and handlers often feel, and offering clear answers to guide medical decisions.
“In this career, I not only get to help veterinarians solve complex cases, but I also provide answers for medical and ethical decisions that need to be made,” Talavera said.
His decision to complete his residency at MSU was influenced by the close-knit, family-like atmosphere, and his deep appreciation for his mentor, Dr. Matthew Williams, Associate Clinical Professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine.
“Having the opportunity to learn from Dr. Williams is the best thing MSU could have offered me,” Talavera said.
He also enjoys collaborating with experienced technologists.
“It is truly amazing to work with them and watch how knowledgeable, detail-oriented, and dedicated they are to producing accurate sample results,” Talavera said.
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