Research Overview

Overview

XLD Salmonella Research

The Microbiology and Molecular Genetics faculty are asking fundamental questions in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell and molecular biology. Our Department applies the methods of microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and structural biology to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the cell. The interdisciplinary nature of these fields means that a prospective graduate student is offered a wide choice of research opportunities. Cross-departmental, interdisciplinary collaborations are facilitated by regular meetings and journal clubs focusing on nucleic acid biochemistry, DNA repair, signal transduction, bacterial pathogenesis, and structural biology and bioinformatics.

The research conducted by the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics bears directly on crucial health and environmentally related problems such as cancer, AIDS, microbial pathogenesis, and bioremediation. The research programs within the Department are supported by a variety of sources including the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the American Cancer Society, the Department of Energy, and the Environmental Protection Agency. The Department is also the recipient of a 1.8 million dollar award from the Lucille P. Markey Charitable Trust for the establishment of a Center for Molecular Genetics. Investigators have also received funding from private foundations, including the Burroughs Wellcome Foundation and the Pew Charitable Trust.

• What our students have to say...

  I was a transfer student into UVM’s MMG department. The professors and students really tried to make me feel at home and comfortable as though I belonged there. What we learn in our classes are fascinating facts that the professors try to relate to real life. Every day you learn something new and interesting making you want to go to class and excited to learn more. I loved my classes, my favorites being Cloning and Virology, but I think the thing I loved most about the MMG program is the atmosphere. The MMG class size is so small that you end up having the same core group of people in your upper level classes and this makes your friendships with those people very strong. We are basically one large family who all care deeply about each other. The professors and staff actually know who you are and care about you and what is going on outside of the classroom in your life. When my brother was sick all of my professors checked in with me to see how I was holding up and how he was doing. It’s not just a program, its more than that and I am so grateful to have been a member of it.

  Jackie (Double major in Microbiology & Molecular Genetics), graduated 2012