Department of Microbiology & Immunology
Unlock the Mysteries of the Microbial World

Bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi are all organisms that can interact with the human body, making us either healthy or sick. Our research spans from the cell to the organ, to the body and to the global population, investigating and impacting the very foundations of human health.

three lab studnets in looking at data on a computer screen
Training the next generation of scientists

Here, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows work side-by-side with principal investigators, testing hypotheses of significant medical importance with the potential to translate into medical advancements. This groundbreaking laboratory training is supplemented with rigorous coursework, seminar series, journal clubs, and the presentation of research findings at national meetings.

Contact Us
Department of Microbiology & Immunology
5641 Medical Science II
1150 W. Medical Center Dr.
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5632
Phone: 734-763-3531
ABOUT US

The department strives to enrich the institution and the scientific community through our service. Read more about our tripartite mission.

PEOPLE

Access our directory of department faculty and students.

EDUCATION

Explore training opportunities including master’s and doctoral programs in Microbiology & Immunology.

EVENTS

View our full event calendar and seminar listings.

RESEARCH

Learn more about our exploration of microbial pathogenesis, immune response and the development of vaccines.

GIVING

Help us to develop the innovators, cures and technologies of tomorrow.

cover of M&I 2022-2023 higlights 2022-23 Annual Report

We are pleased to share with you our 2022–23 Report with a special featured story on the history of the early women in M&I at the University of Michigan.

  • Read Annual Report 2022-23
  • A. Oveta Fuller smiles outside A. Oveta Fuller Award

    The A. Oveta Fuller Award is a career development award for emerging leaders in the areas of microbiology and immunology, infectious disease, or health disparities whose goals and accomplishments benefit society in the spirit of Dr. A. Oveta Fuller.

  • Donate to the A. Oveta Fuller Fund
  • Apply for the A. Oveta Fuller Award
  • JOIN A COMMUNITY OF INCLUSION

    We are a diverse group of scientists, united by a passion for discovery, leadership, service and the sharing of knowledge to address global microbiology and immunology challenges. Our DEI activities, events, trainings, community-building efforts and data collection are valuable additions to the University’s broader strategic DEI plan.

    Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
    Message from the Chair

    Our department's motto is that 'We are an inclusive community whose passion for discovery, service, leadership and sharing of knowledge addresses global microbiology and immunology challenges.'"

    Nancy Walls Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Chair, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and Professor of Internal Medicine
    Bethany Moore
    images showcasing cellular structures and interactions
    Midwest Neglected Infectious Diseases (MNID)

    Attend the only regional conference that features cutting-edge basic science and translational research on the pathogenic mechanisms of fungal and parasitic diseases.

    Learn more about MNID meeting
    Upcoming Events See all events
    Seminar: John Perfect
    John Perfect, MD, presents the Microbiology & Immunology Seminar Series
    Seminar: Emily Goldberg
    Emily Goldberg, PhD, presents the Microbiology & Immunology Seminar Series
    Seminar: Robert Linington
    Robert Linington, PhD, presents the Microbiology & Immunology Seminar Series
    Seminar: Patrick Schloss
    Patrick Schloss, PhD, presents the Microbiology & Immunology Seminar Series
    Seminar: Jorn Coers
    Jorn Coers, PhD, presents in the Microbiology & Immunology Seminar Series
    Seminar: Joel Swanson
    Joel Swanson, PhD, presents in the Microbiology & Immunology Seminar Series
    Seminar: David O'Dwyer
    Join Microbiology & Immunology for a seminar with David O'Dwyer, MB BCH BAO, PhD.
    Midwest Neglected Infectious Diseases (MNID) Meeting 2024
    The University of Michigan Department of Microbiology and Immunology is pleased to host MNID 2024, August 16 and 17.
    FEATURED NEWS & STORIES See all news Enlargement of microscopic HIV virus cells
    Health Lab
    Researchers open new leads in anti-HIV drug development, using compound found in nature
    Researchers open new leads in anti-HIV drug development, using a compound found in nature
    Department News
    Support M&I on Giving Blue Day
    Support the Microbiology and Immunology Annual Fund on Giving Blue Day.
    Illustration of scientists and doctors playing basketball in white coats and scrubs
    News Release
    Four U-M teams selected for virtual tournament of science
    U-M researchers' work made the bracket in the 2024 STAT Madness tournament of science, and need public support to advance
    Department News
    M&I 2023 AdMIration Award goes to Jona Kalaj and Angela Kelly for DEI work
    In December 2023, Jona Kalaj and Angela Kelly received a 2023 Department of Microbiology and Immunology AdMIration award for their dedication to the department’s DEI goals
    Computerized image of a human torso with lungs illuminated
    Health Lab
    The lung microbiome could be driving the progression of COPD
    A new U-M study reveals a possible connection between COPD and the lung microbiome – the population of microbes living inside the lower airway.
    Mike Imperiale smiles holding a signed photo of the campus
    Department News
    Mike Imperiale is Professor Emeritus of M&I
    In January 2024, Michael J. Imperiale, PhD, Arthur F. Thurnau Professor, started his tenure as Professor Emeritus after his retirement from the University of Michigan (U-M) Department of Microbiology and Immunology (M&I) in December 2023.
    women in lab examining sample jar, one woman points at the sample Advancing the field of M&I
    #10
    in Blue Ridge NIH rankings
    58
    Faculty members
    $19.4M
    in NIH funding
    Microbiology & Immunology Internal Website

    Resources and information for current learners and faculty.

    M&I Intranet