Renata Ramos
DVM, MS, DACVO
Renata Ramos is a highly respected veterinary ophthalmologist, educator, and researcher whose career reflects a rare blend of clinical skill, academic excellence, and global perspective.
Currently serving as a Clinical Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine (Virginia Tech), Renata Ramos is dedicated to improving eye health in animals while shaping the next generation of veterinary specialists.
Her journey from veterinary school in Brazil to leading a top-tier academic program in the United States highlights her determination, curiosity, and unwavering commitment to advancing veterinary ophthalmology. Through her clinical work, research, and teaching, she continues to make a lasting impact on both her patients and the field at large.
Educational Foundation and Advanced Training
Renata Ramos earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2011 from União Pioneira de Integração Social (UPIS) in Brasília, Brazil. Eager to expand her expertise, she relocated to North America, where she completed two highly competitive internships at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph.
From 2011 to 2012, she served in a Small Animal Clinical Skills & Surgery Internship, focusing on hands-on instruction for preclinical veterinary students in areas such as physical examinations, anesthesia, and surgical procedures.
She then pursued a Large Animal Internal Medicine and Surgery Internship (2012–2013), where she gained extensive experience with equine, food animal, and small ruminant patients while working across multiple services including internal medicine, surgery, emergency care, radiology, and sports medicine.
Her growing passion for ophthalmology led Renata Ramos to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she embarked on a combined Comparative Ophthalmology Residency and Graduate Studies Program. During her first year, she focused on research, earning a Master of Veterinary Medical Science (MS) in 2016.
The following three years were dedicated to rigorous clinical training, honing her skills in both medical and surgical ophthalmology for small and large animals.
In 2020, Renata Ramos achieved board certification with the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO), a milestone that reflects the highest level of expertise in her specialty.
Clinical and Academic Leadership
Since joining Virginia Tech in 2019, Renata Ramos has risen through the academic ranks, first as a Clinical Assistant Professor and later as a Clinical Associate Professor. She also serves as Ophthalmology Service Chief, overseeing workflow and operations for the ophthalmology service in both large and small animal clinics at the veterinary teaching hospital.
Her role extends beyond patient care. Renata Ramos is deeply involved in teaching veterinary students, interns, and residents through lectures, laboratories, and clinical supervision.
Her commitment to excellence in education has been recognized with the Certification of Teaching Excellence in 2024. She also mentors graduate students, guiding their research and helping them secure funding to advance veterinary science.
As a clinician, Renata Ramos provides expert care for a wide range of ophthalmic conditions, from routine cases to complex surgical interventions. Her particular areas of interest include equine ophthalmology and ocular sensory innervation, areas in which she continues to conduct research to improve patient outcomes and expand scientific understanding.
Awards and Professional Recognition
Throughout her career, Renata Ramos has been recognized for both her clinical skill and dedication to education. During her residency, she received multiple honors, including:
- Excellence in Basic Science Research Award – University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine (2016)
- Small Animal Resident of the Year – University of Florida (2018 and 2019)
- Outstanding Support Staff Award – Ontario Veterinary College (2013)
These achievements highlight her commitment to advancing veterinary medicine and supporting her colleagues and students.
Professional Engagement and Impact
Renata Ramos is an active member of several leading veterinary organizations, including:
- American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO)
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- Virginia Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA)
- International Equine Ophthalmology Consortium (IEOC)
Through these professional networks, she contributes to collaborative efforts aimed at improving eye care for animals worldwide.
Renata Ramos: Shaping the Future of Veterinary Ophthalmology
From her early days as a veterinary student in Brazil to her current role as a respected academic leader in the United States, Renata Ramos has built a career defined by passion, perseverance, and purpose. Her work bridges clinical practice, scientific research, and education, making her a vital contributor to the advancement of veterinary ophthalmology.
Whether she is performing delicate eye surgeries, mentoring the next generation of veterinarians, or leading innovative research, Renata Ramos remains driven by a singular goal: to preserve and restore vision, improving the quality of life for animals and the people who care for them.