"Assistant Research Scientist - Perez Lab"

The Perez Lab in the Department of Population Health at the University of Georgia is recruiting a highly motivated Assistant Research Scientist to conduct research in the development of novel vaccines. This role presents an opportunity to conduct pioneering research focused on the development of novel recombinant vaccines. The successful candidate will utilize viral reverse genetics platforms, including the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) vector, to create effective bivalent recombinant vaccines against a broad spectrum of animal and zoonotic pathogens, such as Avian Influenza Virus, Infectious Bronchitis Virus, and Infectious Bursal Disease Virus. The group’s research interests focus on the interspecies transmission, pathogenesis, and control of viruses of public health concern.

The laboratory uses a wide range of in vitro and in vivo approaches to study the host range of viruses and improve existing or develop novel vaccines and antivirals. We have developed several vaccine platforms against influenza viruses, including vaccines to enhance the mucosal immune response. The Assistant Research Scientist will lead the development and evaluation of modified live virus vaccines based on NDV utilizing reverse genetics techniques, design and execute experiments, meticulously analyze collected data, and prepare comprehensive manuscripts and reports for publication in scientific journals. The Assistant Research Scientist will work with an international collaborative group of students, postdoctoral fellows, and researchers at the University of Georgia and abroad.

Special Instructions to Applicants: Posting Number: F2456P. Working Title: Assistant Research Scientist - Perez Lab. Department: VetMed-Population Health.

About the University of Georgia: Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education. 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 formed School of Medicine.

Position Details: Classification Title: Researcher AC. Faculty Rank: Assistant Research Scientist. Contract Type: Fiscal (12 mo.). Tenure Status: Non-Tenure Track. Minimum Qualifications: PhD in preventive veterinary science, microbiology, molecular virology, or immunology. Additional Requirements: Background in pathogenesis, transmission, vaccine, and antivirals evaluation in different animal models such as mice, hamsters, chickens, and ferrets in ABSL2 or ABSL3 settings. Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience: PhD in preventive veterinary science, microbiology, molecular virology, or immunology, with at least 3 years of postdoctoral experience. Training and proven track record in mucosal immunology, reverse genetics – specifically of paramyxoviruses -, molecular biology, in vitro transcription, development of vaccine platforms, and antiviral evaluation. Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Knowledge of molecular biological and virology procedures and techniques. Knowledge and demonstrated success with reverse genetics, development of vaccine platforms, antiviral evaluation, and mucosal immunology. Candidates should possess a proven record in reverse genetics, vaccine platform development, antiviral evaluation, and mucosal immunology, with expertise in establishing reverse genetic systems for Paramyxovirus being highly valued. Good organizational skills, including planning animal experiments and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and with others and to supervise and mentor other lab members. Good written and oral communication skills. History of and willingness to collaborate in animal experiments using various animal models. Physical Demands: Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time. Is this a Position of Trust?: Yes. Does this position have Security Access?: Yes.

Advertised Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience. Anticipated Start Date: 10/01/2025. 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.