Institute of Veterinary Pathology - Switzerland
Professional Profiles
Early Academic Pursuits
Eva Dervas, born on 14th September 1990 in Athens, Greece, embarked on her academic journey at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, Austria, where she enrolled as a student in 2008. During her undergraduate years, she demonstrated a keen interest in veterinary medicine, paving the way for her specialization in conservation medicine, coupled with ruminant medicine. In December 2014, she earned her Magistra medicinae veterinariae (Mag. med. vet) from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna with a focus on evaluating ruminal acidosis in an in vitro system (RuSiTec).
Professional Endeavors
After completing her master's degree, Eva Dervas delved into the realm of veterinary pathology. She commenced an internship in veterinary pathology and simultaneously pursued her doctoral studies (towards Dr. med.vet.) at the Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland, from February 2015 to January 2016. This laid the groundwork for her subsequent residency in veterinary pathology from February 2016 to February 2019, focusing on exotic and zoo animal pathology with a particular emphasis on reptile pathology. Eva's commitment to advancing her expertise led her to undertake an externship at the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in Berlin, Germany, in March 2018. This international exposure enhanced her understanding of diverse aspects of veterinary pathology and wildlife research.
Contributions and Research Focus
Eva Dervas's academic journey has been characterized by a profound commitment to research. Her doctoral dissertation, completed in November 2017 at the Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, delved into the intriguing realm of "Nidovirus-Associated Proliferative Pneumonia in the Green Tree Python (Morelia viridis)." This research showcased her dedication to uncovering novel insights in the field of veterinary pathology. Building on her earlier accomplishments, Eva embarked on a pivotal research project titled "Boid inclusion body disease and immunosuppression – another hen-egg question?" as a Ph.D. student since July 2020. This project, conducted at the Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, and the Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences (GCB) of the University of Bern, Switzerland, demonstrates her commitment to addressing complex questions in veterinary science. In recognition of the significance of her research, Eva conducted a research stay at the Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil, from August to September 2019. This collaborative effort, supported by a Mobility Grant from the Leading House for the Latin American Region, University of St Gallen, aimed to explore "Boid Inclusion Body Disease (BIBD) and immunosuppression."
Accolades and Recognition
Eva Dervas's exemplary contributions to the field of veterinary pathology have not gone unnoticed. In February 2020, she achieved the prestigious title of Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Pathologists (DiplECVP). This recognition is a testament to her exceptional competence and expertise in veterinary pathology.
Impact and Influence
Eva's work in the area of exotic and zoo animal pathology, particularly her focus on reptile pathology and infectious diseases, has had a significant impact on the veterinary community. Her research findings contribute to the understanding of diseases affecting diverse animal species, influencing diagnostic and treatment approaches.
Legacy and Future Contributions
As Eva Dervas continues her journey as a Ph.D. student and researcher, her legacy is poised to leave an indelible mark on veterinary pathology. Her dedication to unraveling the complexities of diseases in exotic animals and reptiles sets a high standard for future researchers in the field. Her comprehensive approach to academia, research, and international collaborations exemplifies a commitment to advancing veterinary science globally.
Notable Publications
Characterization of Haartman Institute snake virus-1 (HISV-1) and HISV-like viruses—The representatives of genus Hartmanivirus, family Arenaviridae 2018 (26)
Serpentoviruses: More than respiratory pathogens 2020 (9)
New World camelids are sentinels for the presence of Borna disease virus 2022 (4)