Five questions with Dr. Shayna Levitt, veterinary ophthalmology graduate

Levitt will receive her Master of Science (MSc) degree during the University of Saskatchewan (USask) Fall Convocation on Nov. 12 at Merlis Belsher Place.

Levitt’s graduate research explored the genetic basis of pigmentary uveitis, a breed-specific ocular disease that can lead to vision loss and glaucoma in golden retrievers. With the help of her graduate supervisor Dr. Lynne Sandmeyer (DVM), Levitt identified several candidate regions and genes in the canine genome that may cause dogs to be susceptible to pigmentary uveitis. Her work will help to guide veterinarians and researchers in diagnosing and investigating this disease.

Q. Why did you choose to study at the WCVM?

I completed a combined residency (ophthalmology) and MSc program at the WCVM, which is uniquely positioned to combine clinical residency training with a strong graduate research environment. The chance to contribute to ophthalmic research while gaining hands-on clinical experience was an ideal match for my career goals.

Q. What’s been a highlight of your time at the WCVM?

Presenting my research to peers and faculty and seeing how excited other veterinarians and scientists are about the real-world impact of this work has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve also really enjoyed the opportunity to mentor veterinary students in ophthalmology clinics and share my passion for the specialty. A highlight has been the tremendous personal and professional growth I’ve experienced as both a clinician and a researcher. I’ve gained the confidence and skills that have prepared me to enter the field as a capable and well-rounded veterinary ophthalmologist.

Q. How have people at the WCVM helped you during your program?

I’ve benefited from the expertise of the WCVM ophthalmologists and the collaborative environment in the college. Discussions with colleagues and faculty during my combined residency-MSc program have played an important role in shaping my critical thinking and clinical reasoning.

Q. What are your plans now that you’ve completed your graduate program?

I’ve recently passed my board examinations (American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists), and I’ve begun practising as a specialist. I’m now working in Toronto, where I’m excited to be applying my clinical and research skills in practice while remaining open to future opportunities in teaching and collaborative research.

My degree has given me the scientific foundation to approach ophthalmic diseases not just as a clinician, but as a researcher. That dual perspective is invaluable in specialty practice, especially when working with complex cases and contributing to advancements in the field.

Q. What’s your advice for students starting their USask graduate studies based at the WCVM?

Stay curious and ask questions, both in the lab and in the clinic. Seek out opportunities to collaborate and learn from as many people as you can. And don’t forget to celebrate your progress, even the small wins. Graduate school is a marathon, not a sprint.

Click here to read more about WCVM-based graduates who are included in the 2025 USask Fall Convocation on Nov. 12.