Cell biology is the branch of biology that focuses on the study of cells, especially their formation, structure, components, and function. Immunology is the study of the defense mechanisms of the host against infectious diseases, cancers, and other diseases. Microbiology is the study of microscopic forms of life, including bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and fungi. The disciplines of cell biology, immunology, and microbiology are uniquely intertwined and rely on cutting-edge techniques to answer questions related to multiple diseases. Gaining a thorough understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms used by the body to combat infectious diseases and other pathologies can result in the development of therapeutic approaches to prevent and cure these diseases.
Specific research interests of the cell biology, immunology, and microbiology faculty include neuroinflammation, HIV-1 biology, fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging; cardiac muscle function; regulation of eukaryotic gene expression; T cell and NK cell biology; host response to infections; molecular immunology; tumor immunology; cytokine biology; vision research; and molecular diagnostics for emerging vector borne pathogens. Faculty programs are funded by multiple sources including the federal government, state government, and private foundations.
Students may enter the program with a variety of academic backgrounds, providing that they have fulfilled prerequisite courses. The graduate training program involves integrated core courses that focus on biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology and genetics, and physiology, as well as advanced courses in immunology, microbiology, cell biology and other selected topics. Students participate in seminars and discussion of current research and receive extensive training in techniques of contemporary microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, and immunology. Students perform original, publishable research and present their research findings at national and international scientific meetings. In addition, students are required to present their research at the annual University of North Texas Health Science Center Research Appreciation Day (RAD) and during the departmental Works in Progress (WIPs) Seminars. Approximately two years are required to complete the Master of Science degree, while the Doctor of Philosophy degree is normally completed in approximately five years.
Graduates with advanced degrees typically find employment in higher education, industry, and government agencies.