Graduate Research with Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics

Overview of Graduate Research with MIMG Faculty (via UCLA Bioscience Graduate Programs)

This page helps prospective graduate students explore research opportunities with UCLA’s Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics (MIMG) faculty through affiliated bioscience PhD programs. Use it to identify relevant home areas and find the right program pages for admissions and curriculum details.

The MIMG Department at UCLA does not have its own degree-granting MS or PhD program. Those who are interested in graduate studies in biological sciences should apply through UCLA’s Graduate Programs in Bioscience (GPB), a consortium of 11 home areas and their affiliated PhD programs, organized to provide the best possible research training and professional development for graduate students pursuing PhDs in the life and biomedical sciences.

Learn about UCLA Graduate Programs in Bioscience (GPB)

Graduate Programs in Bioscience

While MIMG does not have its own degree-granting graduate program, we support graduate student research by training students in our labs. Graduate students who work with faculty in the MIMG Department are affiliated with one of several interdepartmental PhD Programs offered through the Graduate Programs in Bioscience, primarily the Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Program (MBIDP). 

MBIDP students receive broad training in molecular biology as well as in-depth training in their research area through a combination of coursework, journal clubs, seminars, and research. We encourage all students who are interested in training in MIMG faculty-led labs to apply for graduate studies through one of the four Home Areas that comprise the MBIDP: 

Graduate students in MIMG labs use a wide array of approaches and techniques to explore the realm of molecular genetics, microbial physiology, virology, mycology, parasitology, immunology, and microbial pathogenesis. Their explorations result in both theoretical advances and practical applications, placing UCLA at the forefront of biomedical research. Graduate training in a MIMG lab prepares students for a wide variety of careers in microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics, including academic positions, industrial appointments, and clinical laboratory supervision in both government agencies and private enterprises.