Microbiology & Immunology Curriculum

Part I explores the biology of microorganisms with a detailed discussion of microbial structure, physiology and growth with special emphasis on bacterial metabolism. The fundamental biological properties of microorganisms will be related to their role in nature and the means by which they are manipulated in the laboratory with a detailed discussion of viruses, their structure and function and mechanism of infection.

Part II continues with molecular mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and the role of virulence factors in diseases caused by infectious agents will also be discussed.

In vitro and in vivo aspects of DNA, RNA and protein synthesis are covered in depth by instructors actively doing research in each of these areas. Special emphasis is placed on methods and techniques used to address key questions in the macromolecular processes of DNA replication and repair, RNA transcription and processing, protein synthesis, and post-translational modifications. Students are introduced to principles and applications of molecular techniques and new discoveries in the molecular biology of eukaryotes. Students are provided with a comprehensive reading list.

This course is designed to present a thorough background of structural biochemistry, molecular biology and metabolism. Topics introduced include, not limited to, foundational principles of biochemistry, protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and nucleotide structure, enzyme kinetics, membranes and signaling, DNA repair and gene expression, carbohydrate, lipid, protein, and purine/pyrimidine metabolism, and the diverse biochemical functions of vitamins.

At least 5 elective credits must be in advanced microbiology and immunology courses. Students should consult with their graduate program director for available elective options.