Microbiology and Immunology Training Program
Department of Comparative Pathobiology

Programs of Study

Postgraduate training programs for both the MS and PhD degrees are offered in the study of bacteriology, immunology, parasitology and virology.  Both degrees require independent research and preparation of an original thesis and require a minimum of two and four years, respectively.

Course work is selected jointly by the student and his/her major professor, with the advice of the individual’s graduate advisory committee, to suit the student's background, interests and research problem.  Formal course work may be selected from offerings within the Department of Comparative Pathobiology and from other departments within the University. Courses in general biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, microbial pathogenesis, bioinformatics, statistical methods, bacteriology, virology and other discipline-based courses are often selected as part of individual’s plan of study. Assistance in preparation for board certification for the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine is available.

Salary Support

Limited numbers of teaching/research assistantships and university scholarships are available on a competitive basis. 

Research 

Research focuses on the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of veterinary and human infectious diseases, basic and applied immunology, the development of novel diagnostic tests, therapeutics and methods to prevent infections and tissue inflammation.  Investigations are conducted at the whole animal, tissue, cellular, and molecular levels and are supported by electron microscopy, flow cytometry, cell sorting, confocal microscopy (regular, multiphoton and superresolution), and whole animal imaging facilities within the college and throughout the campus.  Microarray, bioinformatics, statistical analysis, histology, DNA-sequencing, metabolomics, nuclear magnetic resonance/CT, transgenic mouse facility, and other state of the art technologies are available on campus.

The Indiana State Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory provides a significant resource in the practical training of individuals interested in specialty board certification, e.g. microbiology and pathology.  

Eligibility

Applicants must hold the BS or DVM degree or equivalent training in the biological sciences and be admitted by both the Department of Comparative Pathobiology and the Purdue University Graduate School.

Applicants

Qualified individuals with strong interests in pursuing advanced degrees are encouraged to apply.  Women and underrepresented minorities are welcome to apply.  Interested candidates should send letters of inquiry and requests for application forms to: 

Graduate Program Coordinator 
Department of Comparative Pathobiology 
Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine
VPTH Building 101A, 725 Harrison Street 
West Lafayette, IN 47907-2027 
Office Phone: 765-494-7542 
Fax: 765-494-9830 
Email: cpbgradc@purdue.edu 

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce.

Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, 765-494-7607

© 2024 Purdue University All Rights Reserved | Educational Inclusivity Statement | Integrity Statement | EA/EO University | DOE Degree Scorecards | Copyright Complaints | Privacy Policy

Maintained by Purdue Veterinary Medicine Communications. If you have trouble accessing this page because of a disability, please contact us at vetwebteam@purdue.edu.