Assistant Research Scientist - Perez Lab

Posting Number : F2456P

Working Title :

Assistant Research Scientist - Perez Lab

Department :

VetMed-Population Health

About the University of Georgia :

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 (https : / / www.uga.edu / ) . 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.

Posting Type : External

Employment Type : Employee

Benefits Eligibility :

Benefits Eligible

Advertised Salary :

Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Anticipated Start Date :

03 / 01 / 2026

Job Posting Date : 11 / 13 / 2025

Open until filled : Yes

Location of Vacancy :

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 Statement :

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 .

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

Position Summary :

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.

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 is required.

Relevant / Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and / or Certification :

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 and / or Competencies :

This position involves 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 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 responsibility 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 (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) :

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy :

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website .

Background Investigation Policy :

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. 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 .