About the Ph.D. Program
The Department of Immunology offers a program leading to the Ph.D. and has ongoing research programs in molecular aspects of lymphocyte differentiation and function, including MHC expression and peptide interactions; class I MHC structure and function; germinal center biology; HIV pathogenesis; immune responses to gene therapy; inflammation and allergy; signal transduction; and V(D)J recombination.
Students in the department conduct a wide range of cutting edge basic and translational research in the field of immunology. Our students learn how to think critically and communicate their ideas clearly: these are essential skills for careers in research and education. The Department of Immunology offers a dynamic curriculum and personalized attention, as well as the resources and opportunities of a large, well-integrated institution.
The required and elective courses, completed in the first year, provide students with a broad exposure to molecular biology, biochemistry, genetic engineering, genetic vaccines and gene therapy, cellular and clinical immunology. Our students also complete a specialized course, Introduction to Graduate Research, which emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking, oral and graphical data presentation, and grant writing. Small classes and seminars permit close interaction with faculty members.
In addition to taking courses, first year students have the opportunity to rotate through as many as four laboratories to find the best project/mentor match from among more than 35 faculty members.
After the first year of classes, student concentrate on laboratory research; participate in advanced seminars; pass a qualifying exam, which consists of writing and presenting an NIH-style grant; and prepare a dissertation.
The Immunology department has state-of-the-art research facilities that offer the open space design popular in laboratories today, with the north windows offering a terrific view of the Houston skyline. There are spaces for shared equipment and core facilities for flow cytometry and protein chemistry within the department that feature the latest instruments and technologies.
The department currently provides generous assistantships of $26,000 per year, as well as health insurance, to qualified first-year students. Support for subsequent years is provided from funds of the faculty members. Students able to procure extramural funding are rewarded with financial benefits. Graduates of the Department of Immunology graduate, postdoctoral, and fellowship programs are located in different academic, government, and industrial institutions throughout the world, including the NIH, small liberal arts colleges, biotechnology companies, and academic positions.
