Molecular Microbiology Courses

All Division of Basic Science (DBS) students take the Core Course beginning in the Fall of the first year of graduate study.  Upon officially joining the Molecular Microbiology Graduate Program, the student will take the required courses and will be required to attend the Microbiology Seminar course (which includes the student works-in-progress series and the Microbiology Departmental Seminar Series) and the Journal Club (Contemporary Topics in Microbiology).  Preparation for and completion of the Qualifying Examination should be done during the Spring semester of the second year.  For electives, students may select from those offered by Molecular Microbiology or those of another DBS program.

Required Courses

Course Descriptions

Contemporary Topics in Microbiology - Significant new research in microbiology is presented and discussed in a journal club format.  The fundamental aspects of diverse microbes are emphasized, particularly those that are not covered elsewhere in coursework. May be repeated for credit.  (1 semester hour)

Core Concepts in Molecular Microbiology - Addresses core concepts essential for research in modern Molecular Microbiology.  Three modules will focus on 1) microbial genetics, bacterial and viral genetics; 2) bacterial pathogenesis, virulence mechanisms of bacterial pathogens; and 3) viral pathogenesis, viral infections and the host antiviral response. Emphasis will be placed on original experimentation and literature. (4.5 semester hours)

Immunobiology of Infectious Diseases - Examines the host/parasite relationship from both the standpoint of the pathogenic organism and the human host.  Emphasis is placed on molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to and provide resistance to disease.  In general, this course surveys a broad range of pathogenic organisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, nematodes, and unicellular eukaryotic parasites. (1.5 semester hours)

Molecular Mechanisms of Infectious Diseases - First year course presents principles of microbial interactions with humans that result in infection and disease. Paradigms of host-pathogen interactions will be illustrated by studying, at the molecular and cellular levels, specific viral and bacterial pathogens that cause human disease. (1.5 semester hours)

Qualifying Exam (written and oral) - Students prepare a grant proposal on a chosen topic and defend their proposed studies in an oral format.  (March-May of second year)

Seminar in Microbiology - Students present seminars as a works-in-progress describing their ongoing research.  The interpretation and analysis of experimental data are emphasized. This is a required course for enrolled graduate students.  May be repeated for credit.  (1 semester hour)

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