Image: Alumni profile George Punkosdy (BS ’98, PhD ’04 – Cellular Biology); pictured: George Punkosdy By Susan Ambrosetti Growing up in the rural town of Tallapoosa, Georgia, George Punkosdy (BS ’98, PhD ’04 – Cellular Biology) was always drawn to understanding how things worked. But it was a high school chemistry class taught by the tough yet inspiring Mr. Tommy McGuire that truly ignited his passion for science. The intricate interactions of nature’s building blocks fascinated him and set him on a path that would eventually lead to groundbreaking work in immunology and cancer therapeutics. After graduating from Haralson County High School in 1994, Punkosdy enrolled at the University of Georgia that summer. The quieter summer quarter offered a smooth transition into college life, and by fall, he was immersed in the vibrant academic and social atmosphere that defines UGA. Coming from a small town, the diversity and energy of campus life were eye-opening—and exhilarating. Punkosdy majored in cellular biology, diving into courses in biochemistry, genetics, and immunology that laid the groundwork for his future career. After earning his bachelor’s degree in 1998, he joined the lab of Dr. Edward Kipreos, where he studied cell division using the model organism C. elegans. These early experiments introduced him to the mechanisms behind cancer and sparked a deeper interest in biomedical research. Dr. Kipreos’s mentorship was pivotal, encouraging George to pursue graduate studies. In 1999, Punkosdy’s began his Ph.D. at UGA through a joint program with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Under the guidance of Dr. Patrick Lammie, he shifted his focus to immunology, studying lymphatic filariasis—a neglected tropical disease. His research took him to Haiti, Guatemala, and Brazil, supported by UGA’s Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases (CTEGD) and the Latin American and Caribbean Studies Institute (LACSI). These experiences broadened his scientific perspective and deepened his commitment to global health. Punkosdy’s professional journey has centered on understanding how the immune system responds to chronic stimuli—such as infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer. From roles at Pfizer and smaller biotech firms to his current position as Director of Biology at XenImmune Therapeutics, he has focused on translating scientific ideas into real-world treatments. His work has contributed to two cancer programs currently in clinical trials—a testament to the impact of his research and leadership in drug development. He credits UGA with shaping both his scientific career and personal growth. “There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t reach back to things I learned in my scientific training at UGA to apply to current experiments,” he says. While his research at UGA didn’t directly involve cancer, the skills he gained—designing rigorous experiments, interpreting data, and critically evaluating results—have proven invaluable across disciplines. Beyond the lab, the cultural and academic richness of UGA helped shape who he is today. “Every class was taught by world-renowned professors,” Punkosdy reflects. “The well-rounded education I received contributes to my everyday life in science and beyond.” From a small-town classroom to leading-edge cancer research, George’s journey is a powerful example of how curiosity, education, and mentorship can transform lives. His story reflects the spirit of UGA—where students are empowered to explore, discover, and make a difference in the world. Type of News/Audience: Alumni Graduate students Undergraduate students Faculty Staff
