Celebrating 43 Years at the CVM with Professor Connie Gebhart

VBS Professor Connie Gebhart began her post-secondary education in the field of Medical Technology, graduating with honors, at North Dakota State University. She then pursued a Masters Degree in the field of Veterinary Microbiology with a focus on Campylobacter species, followed by a Ph.D. in the field of Veterinary Microbiology with a focus on enteric diseases, most notably proliferative enteropathy, at the University of Minnesota. Recognizing her enthusiasm and dedication to pursuing the study of the causes of disease like Lawsonia intracellularis (which can cause severe and life-threatening symptoms in species of domestic and wild animals), she was quickly hired by the University of Minnesota, and eventually she was able to establish her own research laboratory as Assistant Professor in the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences.

With 43 years of experience in this field, Dr. Gebhart established an impressive career as an expert in veterinary infectious disease, which includes receiving roughly 38 grants, publishing over 140 peer-reviewed publications, submitting 3 scientific patents, 10 invention disclosures, and most importantly advising and mentoring over 38 graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate professional students. 

At the end of the year, Dr. Gebhart will retire from the University of Minnesota and she kindly agreed to answer a few questions for this interview.

What sparked your earliest interest in science and how long have you worked at the University?

In high school and undergraduate college I excelled in mathematics but found biology

particularly challenging. Choosing to pursue the more demanding path, I developed a deep interest in microbiology, epidemiology, and molecular diagnostics. I’ve been at the University for 40 years, holding diverse roles across multiple colleges, departments, and divisions. For the past 15 years, I have served as a professor in the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and the Veterinary Biosciences Department.

What inspired your research of molecular diagnostics, molecular epidemiology, and pathogenesis of bacterial diseases?

My research journey began as a graduate student charged with finding the etiologic agent of proliferative enteropathy, a disease of many species that causes proliferation of intestinal cells in vivo. My collaborators and I ultimately identified the agent as a new genus, Lawsonia intracellularis. Identification of this pathogen, an obligate intracellular bacterium, led to further research in molecular diagnostics, molecular epidemiology, and pathogenesis of this bacterium as well as other bacterial diseases. Knowledge, techniques and collaborations developed during this journey were applied to subsequent identification of and research with other novel pathogens, such as Campylobacter hyointestinalis and Brachyspira hampsonii.

Any career highlights, or a memorable moment/event that left a lasting impression during your time at the University?

The highlights that stand out for me were mentoring undergraduate students, graduate students, and post docs in my areas of research and diagnostics. Sparking enthusiasm for them in the scientific method and seeing them evolve into independent thinkers was very rewarding. They bring pride and inspiration for me now that they have become successful researchers and diagnosticians themselves.

What are your short and long term plans at the University and beyond? 

In the short term, I’m focused on handing off my research and diagnostic duties and expertise to junior faculty. Then I will be retiring by the end of 2025. There are a few unanswered questions in the area of Lawsonia research, most notably ‘how does this bacterium cause eukaryotic cells to proliferate’, and I look forward to proudly observing as my previous mentees find the answers to these questions. 

Any advice for future scientists/researchers?

It’s been a blessing to have a long term career in an area that kept me curious, but grounded, challenged, yet academically successful. Find a career that is enjoyable, no matter how challenging, and that draws you into the workplace each day. Surround yourself with people who support you, yet research that challenges you.

Dr. Gebhart has been a valuable member of the VBS and CVM Community. We honor her hard work, dedicated service and many contributions to the University of Minnesota. The Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences would like to send Connie our best wishes as she begins the next chapter of her life.