Academics Overview
The Immunology and Molecular Pathogenesis (IMP) program offers exceptional interdisciplinary training in molecular and cellular immunology and the role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of infectious disease. The IMP program provides students with a unique opportunity to study all aspects of pathogenesis, ranging from basic immunology to the molecular biology of viral, bacterial, and protozoal pathogens.
In the first year, students take courses in immunology, biochemistry, and cell biology, complete three 8-week laboratory rotations and then select an advisor and laboratory for dissertation research. In the second year, students will continue their education on cutting-edge immunology by completing two literature-based immunlogy courses as well as a course to develop their scientific writing skills. In their second year, they will also dig into their lab research and work closely with their mentor to develop their project proposal and select their dissertation committee members. The third year and beyond are devoted almost entirely to completion of the dissertation research project.
Additionally, throughout their time in the IMP Program, students attend the year-long IMP Seminar Series where they are exposed to immunology research outside of Emory through invited-guest seminars as well as learning about what their peers are doing through the student Research in Progress presentations. Students typically complete this Ph.D. program in approximately six years.
