Microbiology and Immunology Research Overview

Current and emerging pathogens continue to be a constant threat to our way of life. From the appearance of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to the emergence of novel viruses like SARS-CoV-2, it remains critical to maintain a core of molecular biologists studying these emerging problems. The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (MCB) has historically supported clinicians and other basic scientists within the College of Medicine that rely on our expertise in the fundamental properties of infectious agents. While more clinically focused Divisions such as Infectious Diseases in Internal Medicine continue to play a central role in the College of Medicine, it remains equally important to maintain strength in the basic mechanisms underlying the fundamental biological principles governing how these pathogens replicate and spread. The emergence of the novel coronavirus highlights this need. Without the rapid responses of basic scientists studying the technology of vaccine development, immunological responses, viral genomes, and the structural properties of viral antigens, the development and approval of safe and effective coronavirus vaccines would have been significantly delayed. Microbiology and Immunology intensive faculty, which currently includes Drs. William Miller, Alison Weiss, Igal Ifergan, Xiaowei Hou, and Richard Thompson will enable researchers in the Department to continue to provide the necessary fundamental expertise to probe questions related to current pathogens and to be well-positioned to respond to emerging pathogens.

More information on faculty with research interests in microbiology and immunology can be found here.