About the Department
The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics brings together faculty who use microbial and non-microbial systems to investigate fundamental questions in biology, from gene regulation and genome dynamics to cellular stress, aging, cancer and host-microbe interactions. Research spans microbial development, metabolism, genomics, DNA repair and adaptive mutation, integrating molecular genetics with innovative, interdisciplinary approaches. The department provides undergraduate instruction in microbiology, molecular genetics and general biology, helping students understand and address biological challenges in human and animal health, agriculture, industry and the environment, while contributing to graduate education and advanced research training across the life sciences.
