The University of Georgia seeks a collaborative and experienced leader to serve as its next Director of University Research Animal Resources (URAR). This role is pivotal in driving scientific discovery while safeguarding the welfare of research animals, reflecting a steadfast commitment to excellence and integrity.
Since its founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of 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 3,000 full-time faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 40,000 students, including over 30,000 undergraduates and almost 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges.
UGA’s Office of Research oversees a robust research portfolio with $628.1 million in annual expenditures, contributing $8.4 billion to Georgia’s economy. The office drives innovation by bringing over 1,200 products to market, launching 200+ startups. UGA has the distinction of being the recipient of the largest amount of NIH funding among American public universities without a medical school. More growth is expected with the opening of a new School of Medicine at the Athens health sciences campus in the Fall of 2026.
The URAR is a cornerstone of the institution’s research infrastructure, ensuring the humane care and responsible use of laboratory animals. Accredited by AAALAC International and licensed by the USDA, URAR operates across multiple specialized facilities. It oversees a diverse range of species used in research, from rodents to large animals and birds and is supported by a dedicated workforce of veterinarians, technicians, and researchers who provide expert care, training, and compliance oversight
The Director of the URAR should champion ethical practices, support research missions, and uphold the trust placed in UGA’s scientific endeavors. This leader collaborates with University leadership to uphold compliance with policies and procedures governing animal research, ensuring alignment with institutional initiatives. They also oversee the budget, finances, and operations of the URAR, exemplifying a role that seamlessly integrates strategic leadership, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.
A DVM/VMD, five or more years as a senior veterinary leader and eligibility for licensure in the state of Georgia is required. ACLAM (or other pertinent discipline) diplomate, a record of research excellence, and advanced academic degree are preferred.
Nominations, expressions of interest, and applications (including a cover letter and CV) should be submitted via email to Kerry Quealy, Mercedes Chacón Vance, and Jillian Williams at [email protected].
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([email protected]).