Overview
The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG) basic research scientists ask fundamental questions in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell and molecular biology. Our inquisitive and creative faculty and their research teams apply the methods of cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, bio-informatics and structural biology. Our work elucidates mechanisms underlying pathogenesis and disease and seeks innovative paths forward to prevent, treat and improve health.
MMG’s translational and human research teams focus extensively on vaccine development and infectious diseases, with the overarching goal of decreasing the burden of global infectious diseases. The Vaccine Testing Center performs clinical evaluation of new vaccines and works to understand the human body’s immune response to vaccines and infections.
The research conducted by the Department of MMG is funded by a variety of sources, including the National Institutes of Health, The National Science Foundation, The American Cancer Society, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Environmental Protection Agency. We are grateful to all of our funders.