(MURRAY, Ky.)-Murray State University’s Breathitt Veterinary Center has welcomed Dr. Narayan Chandra Paul as its new director, bringing extensive experience in veterinary diagnostics and microbiology to the Kentucky facility.
Dr. Paul, who began his tenure in July 2025, holds board certification from the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists and carries over 20 years of specialized experience in veterinary diagnostics, microbiology, and laboratory leadership.
Educational Background and Career Path
Paul’s educational journey began at the University of Chittagong in Bangladesh, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. He continued his studies with a Master of Science in microbiology with a focus on virology from Bangladesh Agricultural University, then completed his doctorate in microbiology specializing in bacteriology at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.
His career has encompassed academic research, international development work, and diagnostic laboratory leadership, including collaborative work with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
Previous Leadership Experience
Most recently, Paul directed the Bacteriology and Mycology Section at the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. In this role, he managed teams of scientists and technicians while expanding the laboratory’s testing capabilities and leading research initiatives focused on bacterial and fungal diseases in livestock, companion animals, and wildlife populations.
His work has involved partnerships with veterinarians, livestock producers, and public health officials both domestically and internationally, with particular emphasis on quality assurance and laboratory accreditation standards.
Vision for Kentucky’s Animal Health
As leader of the Breathitt Veterinary Center—designated as a National Animal Health Laboratory Network Level 1 facility—Paul aims to strengthen the center’s partnerships with Kentucky’s agricultural community and veterinary professionals.
“The Breathitt Veterinary Center plays a vital role in protecting animal health, supporting our state’s poultry, cattle and equine industries, and safeguarding the food chain,” Paul explained. “I look forward to working with our talented team to continue delivering accurate, timely diagnostics and innovative solutions for our clients.”
The center’s diagnostic services support Kentucky’s significant animal agriculture sectors while contributing to food safety monitoring throughout the supply chain.
University Support
Dr. Brian Parr, dean of Murray State’s Hutson School of Agriculture, expressed strong support for the appointment, noting Paul’s extensive expertise will benefit students, faculty, staff, and regional animal health professionals.
The Breathitt Veterinary Center serves as both an educational facility for Murray State students and a critical diagnostic resource for Kentucky’s agricultural community, providing testing and analysis services that support animal health and food safety initiatives across the region.