Immunology Curriculum

In the classroom, we strive to be as flexible as possible, while providing foundational instruction in immunology. The basic coursework in the Immunology program curriculum covers key concepts in molecular and cellular immunology, experimental methods in immunology and concepts in translational immunology. In addition, students choose core courses in biochemistry, genetics or cell biology. Electives can be selected from a wide range of courses offered by many Departments at Michigan Medicine. In addition to immunology, we emphasize broad training in statistics, systems biology and scientific writing.

Research Rotations

Working in laboratories throughout the University, in the first year of the PhD program students engage in 2-4 month research rotations, to become exposed to different research projects, topics and laboratory environments, prior to the choice of a laboratory for the PhD thesis work.

Dissertation Research

Upon joining their thesis laboratory, students conduct rigorous research in an area of immunology and produce a body of scholarly written work resulting from their research, including primary research articles and review articles. In addition to becoming excellent laboratory or computational scientists, students gain scientific writing and communication skills.

The Immunology Program has no formal teaching requirement. However, many students who want to gain experience with teaching have opportunities to participate as tutors and teaching assistants. Students are also encouraged to pursue a teaching certificate (link) based on interests.

Our trainees gain additional knowledge of immunology research from their attendance at our weekly immunology seminar series and monthly journal club series, and students are key participants at these presentations and discussions. Students also present their research at the annual immunology retreat, to which we invite a renowned immunologist to deliver the keynote seminar.