Izabela Ragan

Dr. Izabela Ragan serves as an Assistant Professor and Veterinary Virologist in the Department of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Wyoming. Her expertise centers on high-consequence viral pathogens including African Swine Fever virus, Rift Valley fever virus, Zika virus, influenza, mpox, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, with extensive experience in BSL-3 laboratory research.

Her academic background includes:

• Ph.D. in Pathobiology and Diagnostic Medicine, Kansas State University (2018)
• D.V.M., Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (2014)
• B.A. in Biology, The Colorado College (2009)

Dr. Ragan's research integrates viral ecology, host-pathogen dynamics, and wildlife-domestic animal transmission pathways to advance translational solutions. She pioneers a UV-light and riboflavin-based inactivation platform for vaccine and diagnostic development against SARS-CoV-2, influenza, tuberculosis, and Leishmania. Her work employs a One Health framework through cross-sector collaborations with academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to strengthen global health security against zoonotic threats.

She maintains active professional engagement through:

• World Society of Virology (2021-present)
• American Society of Virology (2016-present)
• American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (2015-present)

Dr. Ragan teaches Medical Virology (PATB 4710/5710, MICR 4710) and directs BSL-3 research operations focused on emerging viral countermeasures for animal and human health.