Microbial Pathogenesis involves the study of the interactions between microbial pathogens and theirs hosts. Many pathogen virulence factors are only fully understood when investigated in the context of the response of the infected host.  Our training grant supports research that studies the molecular events involved in microbial infections and host responses.  Example pathogenic microbes include bacterial pathogens associated with acute and chronic infections, viral pathogens responsible for HIV and influenza, pathogenic yeast and fungi, and biodefense-related and emerging pathogens.  Our training program provides courses in Microbial Pathogenesis, Viral Pathogenesis, Immunology, Genetics, Cell biology and Gene Regulation.  Research opportunities with many important pathogens are available with our faculty, as well as opportunities to study immune mechanisms involved in innate and adaptive responses to these pathogens.

Faculty members participating in the Training Grant reside in several departments at the University including Pathology, Biochemistry, Oncological Sciences, Biology, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Medicinal Chemistry.  The interaction among basic and clinician scientists in our seminar series, annual retreat, and summer journal club provide a unique opportunity for trainees to experience the clinician’s perspective on new scientific discoveries.

The Microbial Pathogenesis Training Grant is funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Immunology of the NIH, and supports 3 pre-doctoral and 3 post-doctoral trainees working on projects in the area of microbial pathogenesis.  Trainees are involved in hosting and meeting seminar speakers through the Microbial Pathogenesis Seminar Series, take courses in Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, participate in a journal club in Microbial Pathogenesis, and present their research at an annual retreat.  An outstanding caliber of research is expected and achieved by trainees of the Microbial Pathogenesis Training Grant.