About

Microbiology and Immunology: Essential Fields in a Ever-Changing World

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is committed to improving health by studying microbes that cause disease and by dissecting the complex interactions between these microbes and our immune system. This landscape is ever-changing and continues to produce new challenges. Our community of faculty, postdoctoral fellows, PhD students, MS students and staff approaches this mission through a combination of laboratory research, training and education. Research includes laboratory studies of the biological and immunological characteristics of viruses, bacteria and fungi, and extends to global health security and public health preparedness. Our educational programs connect basic science knowledge of microbial pathogens and immune responses with their real-world implications and consequences.

The department is uniquely positioned to ensure a superior research and learning environment. Our location in Washington, D.C., provides proximity to organizations such as the National Institutes of Health and other agencies, giving students access to experts with insight into effective responses to infectious diseases. Our MS and PhD programs prepare graduates to take advantage of opportunities in establishments that have a direct impact on the development of infectious disease responses in the United States and abroad.

Learn more about our faculty and their research.

The department is home to unique and competitive Certificate, Master of Science, and PhD programs. Learn more about our programs.