Welcome to our Department of Microbiology and Immunology (M&I) at UTMB! We are thrilled to present our cutting-edge research programs, introduce the dedicated M&I faculty and staff, and showcase exciting training opportunities. M&I is deeply committed to state-of-the-art research that reduces the burden of disease, local to global, and to training the next generation of biomedical research leaders. Our faculty of 40 world-class investigators continues a proud history of discovery in microbial pathogenesis and host immunity. Jointly appointed faculty from basic and clinical departments complement our expertise and support a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment. Institutional support through unique core facilities, centers, and institutes such as the Sealy Institute for Drug Discovery (SIDD), the Institute for Human Infections and Immunity (IHII), and the Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences (SIVS), further expands our capability. Specialized research facilities such as the Galveston National Laboratory enables our research to address a range of microbial threats, including leading infectious causes of death and emerging pathogens.
Together, we are leading efforts to understand infectious and chronic diseases and translate these discoveries to improve human health. Our research portfolio includes investigation of the mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis, including antimicrobial resistance, the molecular and cellular basis for host immunity, and interactions among hosts, vectors, and pathogens that determine disease outcomes. These advances in knowledge support our translational research to develop and test new therapeutics, diagnostics, and safe and effective vaccines. Trainees in the department have access to highly dedicated mentors, unique research opportunities, and career development through multiple fellowship programs. Looking toward the future, we are preparing for new threats on the horizon, such as newly emerging pathogens, global changes that impact infectious disease proliferation, altered immunity due to aging and chronic disease, and the contribution of infectious disease to brain and reproductive health.
Thank you for visiting our site, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Janice Endsley, PhD
Chair, Microbiology & Immunology