The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is proud to offer programs culminating in M.S., Ph.D. and dual M.D.-Ph.D. degrees. With 25-30 students in our classrooms and labs each year, we lead one of the largest, most robust graduate programs at the School of Medicine. Faculty and staff provide a collaborative, supportive learning environment for scientists at every stage of their academic careers.

Our Programs

Research

Under the supervision of a faculty mentor, each student conducts an independent research project. Our dedicated investigators are at the forefront of basic and translational research in areas ranging from infectious diseases to cancer immunology, and students have the opportunity to make discoveries that will shape the future of health care for humanity.

Explore our research ❯

Life in Richmond

We encourage our students to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and Richmond is a wonderful place to engage in that well-rounded lifestyle. As a mid-sized city with a metropolitan population of 1.3 million, Richmond provides stimulating activities while maintaining an intimate quality and unique vibe. Vibrant neighborhoods offer distinct, diverse experiences, with no shortage of art galleries, museums, music venues, restaurants, breweries and parks.

Learn more about our community ❯

For information about our graduate programs, please contact:

Lisa Shock, Ph.D.
Graduate Program Director
lisa.shock@vcuhealth.org

For information about admissions, please contact:

Kimberly Jefferson, Ph.D.
Graduate Program Director of Admissions
kimberly.jefferson@vcuhealth.org