Our Mission

The Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics (MMG) is committed to excellence in research, teaching and mentoring, and increasing the diversity of our faculty and student bodies. Our enduring research mission is to address central questions in biology using innovative, interdisciplinary experimental approaches in microbial and non-microbial systems. MMG is dedicated to continuing curricular development and effective instruction of courses in microbiology, molecular genetics and general biology to undergraduate majors and non-majors to successfully prepare them for future academic and professional pursuits. Our program is designed to empower students to recognize and solve basic and applied microbiological problems relevant to human health and animal health, agriculture, industry, and the environment. The faculty is also committed to excellence in graduate training and postdoctoral mentoring through teaching, research and career development activities. Through collaboration and outreach, MMG strives to disseminate new knowledge to other professionals, stakeholders, policy makers and the public.