The research programs emphasize problems in the diagnosis and control of economically important diseases of poultry. Applied and basic research is focused on solving problems of importance to the industry The service function exists to provide diagnostic and consultative services to the working poultry industry. This is accomplished by providing diagnostic, necropsy, consultation, and field services to local companies as well as companies located throughout the United States, and the world. The three functions of teaching, research, and service are in many ways interchangeable. For example, service to the poultry industry also provides material for teaching and keeps faculty members abreast of industry problems so they can better focus their research.
Teaching prepares students for careers in research and service.
Research develops new knowledge for teaching and improved services. In the end, all three functions center around teaching and learning. Avian Medicine is one of seven departments in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia. The PDRC was constructed in 1958 by the Agricultural Experiment Station of the College of Agriculture. In 1968 the administration of the PDRC was transferred to the College of Veterinary Medicine.