University of Oregon

What you'll study

This PhD is built around sustained, original research and graduate-level coursework that together develop theoretical depth and practical skills in microbiology and immunology. Early in the programme students typically complete advanced courses in microbial genetics, cellular and molecular immunology, host–microbe interactions, and experimental design. Core practical training includes molecular cloning, next-generation sequencing workflows, microbial culture and containment techniques, flow cytometry, high-resolution microscopy, and bioinformatics for microbial and immunological datasets.

• Foundational seminars and journal clubs in microbiology, immunology and systems biology
• Laboratory rotations with faculty across the biological sciences to identify a dissertation mentor
• Courses in statistics, computational biology and experimental design tailored to biological research
• Specialist electives such as microbial ecology, virology, host signalling pathways, vaccine biology and microbial pathogenesis
• Teaching or outreach practicum to develop communication and pedagogy skills
• Qualifying examinations to transition from coursework to independent dissertation research
• Original dissertation research under the supervision of a faculty advisor, culminating in a written thesis and oral defence

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in biology, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a closely related discipline. Strong applicants demonstrate substantial laboratory experience and a record of research activity, such as undergraduate research projects, theses, publications or technical roles in research labs.

• Academic transcripts showing solid preparation in core biological sciences (molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry)
• Curriculum vitae detailing laboratory experience, research outputs and relevant skills
• Personal statement describing research interests, career goals and fit with faculty expertise
• Two to three academic letters of recommendation from supervisors who can attest to research potential
• For applicants whose first language is not English, an approved English language qualification is normally required

Standardised tests such as the GRE may be optional or considered on a programme-by-programme basis; check the graduate admissions guidance for current policy. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate both strong academic preparation and clear evidence of independent research potential.

Career prospects

Graduates leave the programme prepared for a wide range of careers that rely on deep expertise in microbiology and immunology. Common destinations include:

• Academic research and teaching: postdoctoral positions leading to faculty appointments or research leadership roles
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry: roles in discovery research, translational science, vaccine development and assay development
• Public health and clinical laboratories: positions in infectious disease surveillance, diagnostics and outbreak response
• Government research agencies and national laboratories: research scientist and policy-advising roles
• Technical science roles in bioinformatics, core facilities and scientific management, as well as careers in science communication, patent law and regulatory affairs (often with additional training)

Why study at University of Oregon

The University of Oregon offers an interdisciplinary research environment with faculty whose programmes span microbial genetics, host–pathogen biology, innate and adaptive immunity, and computational approaches. Students benefit from access to modern core facilities for sequencing, microscopy and flow cytometry and from collaborative ties across campus and with regional institutions, which broaden opportunities for translational projects.

Graduate students join a collegial community with structured mentoring, seminars and professional development resources. The campus environment and regional networks support collaborations with public health, environmental microbiology and biotechnology partners, giving doctoral researchers diverse settings in which to test ideas and translate findings into impact.