Following a PhD focused on bacterial genetics from the University of Aberdeen, Damer began working with Eimeria species parasites in 2001 at the Institute for Animal Health (IAH, UK). During his time at IAH he carried out fundamental and applied genetics-led research, contributing to the Eimeria genome sequencing consortium, developing reverse-genetics strategies for use with Eimeria and using genetic mapping as a step towards new cost-effective anticoccidial vaccines. Damer joined the Royal Veterinary College in 2010, becoming Professor of Parasite Genetics in 2016. Current research strands include the genetics-led identification of new anticoccidial vaccine candidates, development of novel vaccine delivery strategies, understanding the genetic basis of host resistance to coccidiosis and interactions of Eimeria with bacterial microbiota of poultry. Work with other parasites includes Cryptosporidium, Toxoplasma gondii, and the poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae. In 2017 Damer became Editor-in-Chief of the journal Avian Pathology.