Congratulations on Dr. Riley's Promotion to Associate Professor
Congratulations to Dr. Sean Riley on his promotion to Associate Professor for the
Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maryland
We are proud to recognize Dr. Sean Riley for his innovative and impactful work in the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Maryland, a joint department of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and AGNR. Dr. Riley has quickly emerged as a leading expert in host-pathogen interactions, innate immunology, and intracellular bacterial infections, particularly those caused by the Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia.
Dr. Riley’s research focuses on how these obligate intracellular pathogens, which must reside within host cells to survive, interact with and manipulate mammalian immune systems. Among the most notorious of these pathogens is Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a potentially fatal tick-borne illness. These bacteria target endothelial cells lining the blood vessels, where their replication, combined with the host immune response, results in severe vascular damage.
His lab investigates both the mechanisms by which Rickettsia invades and thrives within host cells and how the immune system can be mobilized to counter these infections. This foundational research is critical to the development of novel diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines for rickettsial diseases, many of which are emerging or re-emerging threats in both human and veterinary medicine.
Since joining the department, Dr. Riley has made substantial contributions to the field. He is an active collaborator and mentor, supporting graduate and undergraduate trainees in research and professional development. He is also engaged in service across the department and campus, promoting a strong scientific community and advancing translational health solutions.
Dr. Riley’s research combines a passion for infectious disease biology with a commitment to improving public and animal health. His work stands at the intersection of microbial pathogenesis, immunology, and vaccinology, exemplifying the spirit of One Health research.
We are honored to have Dr. Riley as a member of our faculty. His commitment to excellence, collaborative approach, and scientific curiosity are making a lasting impact on the future of biomedical science.
