Her research utilizes both persuasion and public opinion theory to enhance public relations practice and research, specifically in public health campaign contexts. Dr. Avery has published articles in several public relations and health communication journals, including Journal of Public Relations Research, Health Communication, Public Relations Review, and Journalism & Mass Communication Educator. Dr. Avery served as Campaign Manager for a mayoral candidate in Athens, Ga., was the Public Education Specialist for the Athens-Clarke County Recycling Division for five years, and completed a post-doctoral assistantship on a $3.5 million dollar CDC grant establishing the Southern Center on Communication, Health, and Poverty at the University of Georgia.