Research

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.

Research For Good

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.

Research Facilities

The department's research facilities are located in the following buildings on campus: the Biomedical Sciences Building, Stanton L. Young Biomedical Research Center, and Dean McGee Eye Institute.

All laboratory areas are fully equipped for modern research and include core facilities for molecular biology, monoclonal antibody production, gene sequencing and analysis, molecular pathology, fluorescence imaging, laboratory animal maintenance, and advanced computing.

The Department also operates the Bacterial Genomics Laboratory, which is a state of the art gene and genome sequencing laboratory.