The curriculum comprises the school?s outstanding preclinical and clinical training, rigorous PhD graduate training and several elements, including professional development workshops and other activities, specifically designed to enhance the MD / PhD training experience. There has been a long tradition of research excellence and physician scientist training at the Miller School of Medicine. With the opportunities for basic and clinical research here, Miami?s diverse population and access to Latin America and the Caribbean, the backdrop of a vibrant city, make the Miller School a unique place for MD / PhD training.

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology is a multidisciplinary department encompassing the areas of cellular and molecular immunology, virology, microbial genetics, and pathogenic bacteriology. The department currently consists of 27 primary faculty and 26 secondary faculty and is currently recruiting additional scientists.

The goals of the department?s graduate program are to provide each student with the opportunity to acquire the theoretical background and conceptual framework with the technical research skills necessary to attain a PhD. During the first year of study, a broad educational base in all disciplines together with laboratory rotations introduce students to the diverse array of research topics. Students then choose one area of concentration for their research. The varied interests of the faculty provide numerous opportunities for student participation and a broad choice in dissertation research.