https://medicine.ouhsc.edu/academic-departments Parent Page: Academic Departments id: 21483 Active Page: Microbiology & Immunology id: 35844 Portal ID: 248

At the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, the Department of Microbiology and Immunology is at the forefront of understanding how microbes and the immune system shape human health. From unraveling the mechanisms of emerging infectious diseases to exploring the body’s complex immune defenses, our research advances the fight against some of the world’s most urgent health challenges.

Microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, and parasites—remain among the most powerful forces in medicine, driving everything from pandemics to chronic inflammatory diseases. By studying these organisms and the immune responses they trigger, our scientists are unlocking discoveries that will lead to new vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Our department supports research into more than 20 major diseases, with work spanning basic discovery through translational application.

Collaborating for Global Impact

Breakthroughs in microbiology and immunology rarely happen in isolation. Our department thrives on collaboration—partnering with clinicians, scientists, and public health leaders across Oklahoma, the nation, and the world. By linking basic discovery with clinical application, we accelerate the path from laboratory findings to new interventions. This collaborative ecosystem makes our department a vital contributor to OU’s ambition of becoming a top-tier research institution and a national leader in precision medicine.

Tools for Breakthroughs

Modern science requires modern infrastructure. The Department of Microbiology and Immunology offers advanced laboratory resources for pathogen research, immunology, and molecular biology, including state-of-the-art imaging, sequencing, and high-containment facilities. These resources empower faculty and students alike to pursue ambitious projects that redefine what’s possible in microbiology and immunology.

Preparing Tomorrow's Leaders in Science

Training future scientists is central to our mission. Our graduate programs provide immersive, hands-on research experiences in a collaborative environment where students work alongside nationally recognized faculty. From mastering experimental design to publishing high-impact findings, our trainees gain the skills and mentorship needed for successful careers in academia, industry, and government.

Join Us at the Forefront of Discovery

At the OU College of Medicine, the Department of Microbiology and Immunology is more than an academic department—it is a community dedicated to advancing knowledge, training the next generation, and shaping the future of medicine. We welcome prospective students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty to explore our programs and join us in driving innovation at the intersection of microbiology, immunology, and human health.