Post Doctoral Associate - Perez Lab
University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
Overview
Post Doctoral Associate - Perez Lab
Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply for this Job link/button. If you would like to bookmark this position for later review, click on the Bookmark link. If you would like to print a copy of this position for your records, click on the Print Preview link.
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Vacancies & Application Materials The Perez lab is seeking Post Doctoral Associates to fill two vacancies. Applicants are asked to submit the following:
CV/Resume
Cover Letter
Copy of
First Author
Publication(s): minimum one, maximum three. Only first author publications will be evaluated
List of References with Contact Information: minimum three, maximum five
Posting Details Position Details
Posting Number G/R32426P
Working Title Post Doctoral Associate - Perez Lab
Department VetMed-Poultry Diagnos & Rsch
About the University
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About the College/Unit/Department The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.
The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well-rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community.
http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/
Additional Details College/Unit/Department website
Employment Type
Employee
Additional Schedule Information
Advertised Salary Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Anticipated Start Date
06/01/2026
Posting Date
03/12/2026
Closing Date
04/15/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants The Perez lab is seeking Post Doctoral Associates to fill two vacancies.
CV/Resume
Cover Letter
Copy of
First Author
Publication(s): minimum one, maximum three. Only first author publications will be evaluated
List of References with Contact Information: minimum three, maximum five
Location Athens Area
EEO Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .
Duties/Responsibilities
Mass Vaccination-Ready Live Virus Vaccine Development. Percentage of time 40
Viral-Vectored Immunoprophylaxis and Nanobody Delivery. Percentage of time 25
Nutritional Resistance and Antiviral Prophylaxis. Percentage of time 20
mRNA Vaccine Evaluation and High-Containment Studies. Percentage of time 10
Data Management and Professional Development. Percentage of time 5
Position Details Position Information
Classification Title Post-Doctoral Associate
AD FLSA Exempt
UGA Job Code FTE 1.00
Minimum Qualifications Position Summary
The Post-Doctoral Associate will be instrumental in bridging the gap between the lab’s ongoing efforts in understanding the emergence of influenza viruses at the animal-human interface. This research is critical to determine the molecular basis of pathogenesis and transmission of these viruses and to assess the efficacy of vaccine platforms and antiviral candidates for broader protection against influenza.
The successful candidate will be a key contributor to multiple ongoing and planned research projects, with a primary focus on influenza virus immunology, pathogenesis, vaccine development, alternative antiviral interventions, and host resistance to infection.
Candidates will be assigned to one or more of the following specific projects and associated responsibilities:
Mass Vaccination-Ready Live Virus Vaccine Development Reverse Genetics: Design and generate mono- and multivariant modified live virus (MLV) vaccines against H9N2 and H5N1 influenza viruses utilizing chimeric segments and unique molecular markers.
Nutritional Resistance and Antiviral Prophylaxis Immunomodulation Testing: Evaluate natural compounds (e.g., tannins, medium-chain monoglycerides) for their potential to enhance the immune response or provide direct neutralizing activity against HPAI. Advanced Cell Culture: Utilize chicken 2D enteroid systems and primary chicken mesenchymal stem cells (CMSCs) to study host-pathogen interactions and cytokine expression under viral challenge conditions.
mRNA Vaccine Evaluation and High-Containment Studies ABSL3 Challenge: Execute critical animal studies for mRNA vaccine candidates, including mass-administration feasibility testing (in ovo, aerosol, and drinking water) and virulent H5N1 challenge experiments. Pathology and Sequencing: Perform tissue collection, necropsy, and genomic analysis (NGS) of challenge virus progeny to identify antigenic drift and host adaptation.
Data Management and Professional Development. Implement project Data Management Plans (DMP), archiving datasets and submitting sequences to NCBI GenBank and SRA. Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals and present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
Education/Experience
Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., D.V.M., Sc.D.) in Virology, Immunology, Microbiology, or a related biological science field.
Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, protein engineering, cell culture, and handling of avian species (chickens, turkeys, ducks).
Analytical Skills: Proficiency in classical virus techniques including plaque assays and other methods of virus growth and titration, RT-qPCR, ELISA, ELISPOT, flow cytometry, and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies: Ability to work in full personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods within ABSL2 and ABSL3 high-containment environments.
Physical Demands Is this a Position of Trust? Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No
Does this position require a P-Card? No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No
Is driving a requirement of this position? No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No
Does this position have Security Access? Yes
Background Investigation Policy: Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check and confirmation of credentials and employment history as they relate to the job requirements. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Contact Information Recruitment Contact: Daniel Perez
Email: dperez1@uga.edu
Posting Specific Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents Required Documents
Resume/CV
Cover Letter
Sample Publications
List of References with Contact Information
Optional Documents #J-18808-Ljbffr
Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click the Apply for this Job link/button. If you would like to bookmark this position for later review, click on the Bookmark link. If you would like to print a copy of this position for your records, click on the Print Preview link.
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Vacancies & Application Materials The Perez lab is seeking Post Doctoral Associates to fill two vacancies. Applicants are asked to submit the following:
CV/Resume
Cover Letter
Copy of
First Author
Publication(s): minimum one, maximum three. Only first author publications will be evaluated
List of References with Contact Information: minimum three, maximum five
Posting Details Position Details
Posting Number G/R32426P
Working Title Post Doctoral Associate - Perez Lab
Department VetMed-Poultry Diagnos & Rsch
About the University
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About the College/Unit/Department The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.
The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well-rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community.
http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/
Additional Details College/Unit/Department website
Employment Type
Employee
Additional Schedule Information
Advertised Salary Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Anticipated Start Date
06/01/2026
Posting Date
03/12/2026
Closing Date
04/15/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants The Perez lab is seeking Post Doctoral Associates to fill two vacancies.
CV/Resume
Cover Letter
Copy of
First Author
Publication(s): minimum one, maximum three. Only first author publications will be evaluated
List of References with Contact Information: minimum three, maximum five
Location Athens Area
EEO Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .
Duties/Responsibilities
Mass Vaccination-Ready Live Virus Vaccine Development. Percentage of time 40
Viral-Vectored Immunoprophylaxis and Nanobody Delivery. Percentage of time 25
Nutritional Resistance and Antiviral Prophylaxis. Percentage of time 20
mRNA Vaccine Evaluation and High-Containment Studies. Percentage of time 10
Data Management and Professional Development. Percentage of time 5
Position Details Position Information
Classification Title Post-Doctoral Associate
AD FLSA Exempt
UGA Job Code FTE 1.00
Minimum Qualifications Position Summary
The Post-Doctoral Associate will be instrumental in bridging the gap between the lab’s ongoing efforts in understanding the emergence of influenza viruses at the animal-human interface. This research is critical to determine the molecular basis of pathogenesis and transmission of these viruses and to assess the efficacy of vaccine platforms and antiviral candidates for broader protection against influenza.
The successful candidate will be a key contributor to multiple ongoing and planned research projects, with a primary focus on influenza virus immunology, pathogenesis, vaccine development, alternative antiviral interventions, and host resistance to infection.
Candidates will be assigned to one or more of the following specific projects and associated responsibilities:
Mass Vaccination-Ready Live Virus Vaccine Development Reverse Genetics: Design and generate mono- and multivariant modified live virus (MLV) vaccines against H9N2 and H5N1 influenza viruses utilizing chimeric segments and unique molecular markers.
Nutritional Resistance and Antiviral Prophylaxis Immunomodulation Testing: Evaluate natural compounds (e.g., tannins, medium-chain monoglycerides) for their potential to enhance the immune response or provide direct neutralizing activity against HPAI. Advanced Cell Culture: Utilize chicken 2D enteroid systems and primary chicken mesenchymal stem cells (CMSCs) to study host-pathogen interactions and cytokine expression under viral challenge conditions.
mRNA Vaccine Evaluation and High-Containment Studies ABSL3 Challenge: Execute critical animal studies for mRNA vaccine candidates, including mass-administration feasibility testing (in ovo, aerosol, and drinking water) and virulent H5N1 challenge experiments. Pathology and Sequencing: Perform tissue collection, necropsy, and genomic analysis (NGS) of challenge virus progeny to identify antigenic drift and host adaptation.
Data Management and Professional Development. Implement project Data Management Plans (DMP), archiving datasets and submitting sequences to NCBI GenBank and SRA. Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals and present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
Education/Experience
Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., D.V.M., Sc.D.) in Virology, Immunology, Microbiology, or a related biological science field.
Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, protein engineering, cell culture, and handling of avian species (chickens, turkeys, ducks).
Analytical Skills: Proficiency in classical virus techniques including plaque assays and other methods of virus growth and titration, RT-qPCR, ELISA, ELISPOT, flow cytometry, and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies: Ability to work in full personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods within ABSL2 and ABSL3 high-containment environments.
Physical Demands Is this a Position of Trust? Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No
Does this position require a P-Card? No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No
Is driving a requirement of this position? No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No
Does this position have Security Access? Yes
Background Investigation Policy: Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check and confirmation of credentials and employment history as they relate to the job requirements. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Contact Information Recruitment Contact: Daniel Perez
Email: dperez1@uga.edu
Posting Specific Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents Required Documents
Resume/CV
Cover Letter
Sample Publications
List of References with Contact Information
Optional Documents #J-18808-Ljbffr