Gisela F. Erf

Gisela F. Erf is a Professor in the Department of Poultry Science at the University of Arkansas's Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. She holds the Tyson Endowed Professorship in Avian Immunology and serves as Director of the Cell-Isolation and Characterization Facility. Erf's career spans over three decades, including roles at Cornell University, Smith College, and the University of Arkansas since 1994.

• Ph.D., Immunology, Cornell University, 1988
• M.S., Reproductive Physiology, University of Guelph, 1983
• B.S., Animal Science, University of Guelph, 1981
• Associates Degree, Animal Science, Nova Scotia Agricultural College, 1979

Erf's research focuses on avian immune system development, autoimmune diseases in poultry models, nutritional immunomodulation, and mucosal immunity. Her work with Smyth line chickens has advanced understanding of vitiligo's immunological mechanisms. Recent publications emphasize cytokine dynamics, inflammatory responses, and genomic approaches to avian autoimmune conditions.

Her scientific awards include the Young Investigator Award from the Pan-American Society for Pigment Cell Research, multiple University of Arkansas teaching and research accolades, and the nationally recognized Helene Cecil Leadership Award from the Poultry Science Association. Erf also holds patents related to avian disease models and pulmonary hypertension induction techniques.

• U.S. Patent No. 8,216,551: In vivo tissue response monitoring
• U.S. Patent No. 6,720,473: Pulmonary hypertension induction (co-inventor)

Erf teaches graduate-level Advanced Immunology and undergraduate research rotations. Her leadership roles include directing research facilities and mentoring students recognized through awards like Gold Medal Faculty Mentor and Outstanding Mentor distinctions. She maintains professional memberships in the Poultry Science Association and American Association of Immunologists.