Department of Physiology and Pharmacology

Associate Professor

Biography

Aleksandra Pawlak is a veterinary scientist specializing in pharmacology, immunopharmacology, and comparative oncology. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and PhD degree from the Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences (UPWr) in Poland, where she has built her academic and research career. Currently, at UGA, Dr. Pawlak serves as a tenure-track Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology within the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Her research focuses on experimental and comparative oncology, with particular expertise in hematopoietic cancers, DNA damage, and the interplay between immunology, immunotherapy, and pharmacology. She is especially recognized for her work in flow cytometry–based diagnostics and the development of innovative, molecularly targeted therapies for companion animals. Dr. Pawlak’s scientific contributions also extend to understanding cancer physiology and immune system interactions, aiming to translate basic discoveries into effective treatments.

As an academic leader, educator, and innovator, Dr. Pawlak is committed to advancing veterinary oncology through a blend of rigorous research, mentorship, and practical applications that improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in companion animals.

Education

  • D.V.M., Wroclaw University of Environmental & Life Sciences, Poland, 2010
  • Ph.D., Wroclaw University of Environmental & Life Sciences, Poland, 2014

Professional Certifications

European College of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology – Resident

Teaching

  • VETM 5310 — Core Medicine and Surgery I
  • VPHY4610 — Physiological Basis of Drug Action
  • VPHY 3100 — Elements of Physiology
  • VPHY 3101 — Elements of Physiology Seminar
  • VPHY 3107–3107D — Integrative Concepts in Physiology I

Clinical Interests

Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology

Research Interests

Experimental and comparative oncology, with particular expertise in hematopoietic cancers, DNA damage, the interplay between immunology, immunotherapy, and pharmacology, flow cytometry–based diagnostics, and the development of innovative, molecularly targeted therapies for companion animals.

Publications

View publications.

going beyond the expected