The CEM program requires students to be matched with a potential mentor PRIOR to applying to the program. The CEM program has limited funding opportunities and openings available. Our current openings are listed below. If you are interested in any of the openings below, reach out to the professor listed.
We currently have one opening.
1. PhD student and Graduate Research Assistant in Veterinary Virology and Immunology for Spring 2026, Summer 2026, or Fall 2026 entry
Position Title:
Graduate Research Assistant (PhD) – Veterinary Virology and Immunology
Location:
University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine (UTCVM), Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, Knoxville, TN
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Jacquline Risalvato, DVM, PhD, DACVM-Virology
Assistant Professor and Director, Virology and Immunology Diagnostic Laboratory
Position Summary:
Dr. Jacquline Risalvato, Assistant Professor and Director of the Virology and Immunology Diagnostic Laboratory at UTCVM, is seeking a motivated graduate student (PhD) 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:
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
Integration of diagnostic data into broader disease surveillance systems
Qualifications:
Required:
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
Must have a minimum 3.0 on all undergraduate and graduate coursework
Preferred:
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 ($35,325 annually), tuition waiver, and health insurance, subject to satisfactory academic and research performance.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit the following:
– 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
Please send application materials to:
Dr. Jacquline Risalvato
Email: jrisalva@utk.edu
Application Deadline:
December 1, 2025
For more information about our lab and research activities, please visit:
Dr. Risalvato’s Profile
