Doctor of Philosophy in Immunology, Microbiology and Virology - Biodefense

The Immunology, Microbiology, and Virology (IMV) Program is designed for students interested in obtaining a Ph.D. in Microbiology & Immunology. We offer in-depth coursework and diverse research opportunities that focus on immunology, microbiology and virology. The flexibility of our training program allows students to train in a number of exciting research areas including: cancer, autoimmune disease, respiratory pathogens and often allows students to develop highly effective interdisciplinary collaborations, resulting in cutting edge thesis projects. Housed in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, the Immunology, Microbiology, and Virology PhD Program (IMV) houses a diverse group of faculty with expertise in bacteriology, virology, fungi, and immunology.
The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is focused on research and educational programs which relate to microbial pathogens (viruses and prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes) and the host immune defenses which protect against these organisms. Current research emphasizes cutting-edge molecular techniques and includes, but is not limited to, studies on: autoimmunity, biodefense, bioinformatics, biofilms, cancer biology, gene therapy, genetics and genomics, HIV/AIDS, immunologic mechanisms, respiratory pathogens (including influenza) and vaccine development.
Faculty research focuses on a range of Category A, B and C Priority Pathogens. Studies include analysis of the pathogenesis of important bacterial and viral biodefense agents, comparative genomic studies on Vibrio species, genetic analysis of Francisella tularensis, analysis of immune responses to such viruses as influenza virus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and human arenaviruses such as Lassa and Junin, and the development and testing of new vaccines for pathogens that include human arenaviruses and influenza.