GRA Opportunity in Veterinary Virology and Immunology
University of Tennessee (State) | https://www.utk.edu/
Details
Application Deadline:
10/01/2025
Published:
06/09/2025
Starting Date:
after 8/18/2025
Hours per Week:
at least 20
Salary:
starting at $35,000 per year
Education Required:
Bachelors
Experience Required:
at least 1 year
Location:
2407 River Drive (Knoxville , Tennessee)
Tags:
Graduate Opportunities
Description
GRA Opportunity in Veterinary Virology and Immunology
Jacquline Risalvato, assistant professor and director of the Virology and Immunology Diagnostic Laboratory at UTCVM, is seeking a motivated PhD graduate student to join her dynamic team. Her lab focuses on advancing molecular and immuno-diagnostic tools, enhancing disease surveillance, and investigating viral genetic modifications, including reassortment and rearrangement, in individual animals, herds, and wildlife populations. This research is integral to understanding disease pathogenesis and improving animal and public health outcomes.
Research Focus Areas
- integration of diagnostic data into broader disease surveillance systems
- development and validation of molecular (e.g., PCR-based) and immuno-diagnostic (e.g., ELISA) assays for veterinary pathogens
- surveillance and monitoring of infectious diseases in domestic and wild animal populations
- investigation of viral genetic modifications during disease progression
Required Qualifications
- bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine, microbiology, virology, immunology, molecular biology, or a related field
- strong interest in veterinary diagnostics, infectious diseases, and molecular techniques
- excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
Preferred Qualifications
- master’s degree in veterinary medicine, microbiology, virology, immunology, molecular biology, or a related field
- experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR, sequencing)
- familiarity with immunological assays and diagnostic test development
- background in veterinary diagnostics or experience working in a diagnostic laboratory setting
Funding and Support
The position includes a graduate assistantship that provides a stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance, subject to satisfactory academic and research performance.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Dr. Jacquline Risalvato at jrisalva@utk.edu with the subject “Graduate Research Assistant Application” by July 1, 2025:
- a cover letter detailing research interests and career goals
- curriculum vitae (CV)
- academic transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable for initial review)
- contact information for three professional references
Contact
Dr. Jacquline Risalvato
jrisalva@utk.edu (preferred contact method)