Don Mark Estes, an internationally renowned veterinary immunologist and vaccine researcher, has joined the College of Veterinary Medicine faculty as the Fred C. Davison Distinguished University Chair in Veterinary Medicine.
Estes comes to UGA from the University of Texas Medical Branch, where he most recently served as associate director of research programs for the Sealy Center for Vaccine Development.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Estes to our faculty in the College of Veterinary Medicine,” said Sheila W. Allen, dean of the college. “Dr. Estes brings a wealth of experience to our very talented group of investigators who are dedicated to research in infectious diseases that afflict animals and people.”
Estes earned a Ph.D. in genetics in 1988 from Texas A&M University. His laboratory will be housed in the college’s department of infectious diseases. “Having Dr. Estes join UGA at this time will provide a significant enhancement to an already terrific research program in the study of emerging and zoonotic infectious diseases,” said Fred Quinn, head of the college’s department of infectious diseases. “Dr. Estes is an extraordinary scientist and entrepreneur. His work, particularly in the areas of vaccine and therapeutic drug discovery, will enhance our research reputation and provide a translational platform for the development of new products and technologies.”
Dr. Davison, the chair’s namesake, graduated from the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine in 1952 and returned in 1964 to serve as dean. He became vice chancellor of the University System of Georgia in 1966. He served as UGA’s 17th president from 1967-1986. Davison is considered largely responsible for boosting UGA’s recognition as a research institution.