Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
We are advancing understanding of the biology of disease and using this knowledge to solve enormous public health problems.
Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Headlines
Gain-of-Function Research: Balancing Science and Security
Gain-of-function research can help science get ahead of potential threats—but is it too much of a risk?
Survival Through Difference: How Bacteria Resist Treatment
New tools reveal how differences in individual cells within bacterial communities help them survive—and suggest targets for overcoming drug resistance.
Public Health Under the Microscope
How a menagerie of bacteria, fungi, and parasites silently shapes human health.
What We Do in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
The mission of MMI is to advance fundamental knowledge of human pathogens, host-microbe interactions and arthropod vectors, develop interventions to improve public health, and train scientists to conduct rigorous, ethical research while embracing diversity, inclusion and the unique experiences of all department members.
We believe in the power of scientific discovery. Our diverse research programs and committed faculty offer students unparalleled opportunities in the laboratory, in the clinic, and in the field.
Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Highlights
First in Immunology
Founded in 1916, ours was the first immunology department in the U.S.
Commitment to Diversity
We foster an environment that is inclusive, diverse, and equitable
Lab Science at Work
We have 24 working laboratories
Education
The R3 program, led by Gundula Bosch, PhD, retrains students to be critical thinkers
Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Programs
Master of Health Science (MHS)
The 9-month MHS program includes a core curriculum focused on the biology, immunology, and transmission dynamics of major infectious diseases related to public health.
Master of Science (ScM)
The 2-year ScM program gives students an understanding of infectious diseases guided by research experience in the laboratory or field.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The 5-year PhD program allows students to focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive infectious and immune diseases, the opportunity to take courses focused on a specific research area, and to benefit from lab rotations, mentored research, and professional development.
Centers and Institutes in the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
We host six centers and institutes that advance our research initiatives.
R³ Center for Innovation and Science Education
Malaria Research Institute
Johns Hopkins Center for Women's Health, Sex, and Gender Research
Johns Hopkins Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response (JH CEIRR)
Lyme and Tickborne Diseases Research and Education Institute
Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study
How do you study the world’s most dangerous animal? In a world-class, carefully designed facility. The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute at the Bloomberg School is home to a 3,000-square-foot insectary, one of the largest in the U.S.
Our faculty and collaborators work in state-of-the-art facilities tailored to specific research needs.
J. Marie Hardwick, PhD
studies why neurons die prematurely and how to activate cell death programs in pathogenic microorganisms
Upcoming Events
Support Our Department
Philanthropic gifts enable the pursuit of important research that cannot be supported by federal funding and also support student and faculty fellowships.