Mark Parcells

Mark Parcells is a Professor of Molecular Virology in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at the University of Delaware, where he also serves as Interim Director of the Avian Biosciences Center. He is affiliated with the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources and is actively involved in research, teaching, and academic leadership.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, 1994
• B.A. in Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, 1984

Dr. Parcells' research focuses on the molecular virology of Marek’s disease virus (MDV), Zika virus, coronaviruses, and the innate immune response to viral infections. His work spans both basic and applied research, including viral oncogenesis, vaccine development, immune modulation, and exosome-mediated immunity. He investigates how MDV transforms T-cells and evolves to overcome vaccines, with implications for human cancers like Hodgkin’s lymphoma. His lab also explores prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for SARS-CoV-2 and develops non-antibiotic treatments using IgY antibodies.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in viral pathogenesis, immune response modulation, and vaccine innovation. His work integrates molecular biology, immunology, and systems-level analyses such as transcriptomics and proteomics, particularly in avian models. A recurring theme is the use of exosomes as biomarkers and immune modulators in viral diseases.

Dr. Parcells actively mentors graduate students and collaborates with researchers at Freie Universität Berlin, UCLA, and industry partners. His lab engages in vaccine testing, mechanism of action studies for adjuvants, and commercial antibody development. He teaches courses in animal virology, immunology, and animal diseases, contributing to both undergraduate and graduate education.

Laboratory and Research Teams:

• Laboratory focused on molecular virology and immunology of avian and human viruses
• Collaborative teams on MDV evolution with Dr. Benedikt Kaufer (Freie Universität Berlin)
• COVID-19 research team with Dr. Vaihtilingaraja Arumugaswami (UCLA)
• UD-based team on exosome biology with Dr. Matthew B. Hudson