Jeffrey Pernica

Dr. Jeffrey Pernica is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McMaster University's Faculty of Health Sciences. His clinical and research expertise spans Infectious Diseases, Tropical Medicine, Immunization, and Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV). As former Head of the Division of Infectious Disease, co-chair of the Ontario Immunization Advisory Committee, and regional lead for the Ontario CMV Newborn Screening Program, he bridges clinical leadership with global health initiatives.

His research focuses on optimizing diagnosis and treatment protocols for respiratory infections, enteric infections, and sepsis in both resource-rich and resource-limited settings. A key contributor to studies in Botswana and other low-income countries, Dr. Pernica has led randomized trials and cohort studies addressing diarrheal disease, antimicrobial resistance, and viral pathogenesis.

Recent publications highlight his work on Rotavirus vaccine efficacy, RSV genomics, and antimicrobial stewardship. His awards include the Hamilton Health Sciences Early Career Award and IDWeek 2020 Investigator Award, with funding from Grand Challenges Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. His collaborative network includes 44 co-authors and partnerships across global health institutions.