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
    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 Portrait of Dr. Melanie Pearson
    Department News
    Melanie Pearson, Ph.D., is promoted to Associate Professor. Congratulations!
    On May 16, 2024, the Regents of the University of Michigan promoted Melanie Pearson, Ph.D., to Associate Professor on the Research Track, effective September 1, 2024.
    Photos of Jaime Fuentes, Faith Anderson and Andrés Rivera Ruiz, M&I 2924 Rackham Graduate School Fellows
    Department News
    Meet three M&I graduate students who received prestigious fellowships from U-M Rackham Graduate School
    Faith Anderson, Jaime Fuentes, and Andrés Rivera Ruiz, M&I Ph.D. candidates, have been awarded prestigious fellowships from Rackham Graduate School, in recognition of their academic excellence. Congratulations, we’re so proud of you!
    blue gloves in hospital hanging IV bag
    Health Lab
    Commonly used antibiotic brings more complications, death in the sickest patients
    In emergency rooms and intensive care units across the country, clinicians make split-second decisions about which antibiotics to give a patient when a life threatening infection is suspected. Now, a study reveals that these decisions may have unintended consequences for patient outcomes.
    stethoscope
    Health Lab
    Too much iron can cause big problems for the immune system
    A study builds on previous work that found depriving T cells of iron prevented cells from proliferating. The current study, published in PNAS, found that excess iron is just as problematic.
    Portrait of the 4 Graduate Program in Immunology alumni
    Department News
    An Alumni Career Panel Session, organized by the Graduate Program in Immunology
    Four Graduate Program in Immunology alumni participated in a panel discussion about their career paths.
    Professor Mary O'Riordan (left) and Dr. Anna-Lisa Lawrence hold the MacNeal Award plaque
    Department News
    Dr. Anna-Lisa Lawrence receives the 2023 MacNeal Distinguished Dissertation Award.
    This M&I award recognizes outstanding dissertations.
    women in lab examining sample jar, one woman points at the sample Advancing the field of M&I
    #10
    in Blue Ridge NIH rankings
    60
    Faculty members
    $24.5M
    in NIH funding
    Microbiology & Immunology Internal Website

    Resources and information for current learners and faculty.

    M&I Intranet