Microbiology & Immunology

Studies in this discipline are available in both the .

Life on earth began with, and continues to depend on, the activities of microorganisms, most of which are beneficial. However, some microorganisms can cause infections, with potentially disastrous outcomes. While the immune system has evolved to control harmful microorganisms, it can, however sometimes inflict damage on its host. Infectious disease is still responsible for many deaths and much suffering worldwide. Never has there been a better time to learn about microorganisms and their incredible ability to adapt, evolve and survive; and our immune system that controls infections and provides immunity against those microorganisms that cause harm.

This major offers two specialisations, these being Microbiology and Infection and Immunity. The Microbiology specialisation explores infectious microorganisms and the infections they can cause, whereas the Infection and Immunity specialisation combines the study of infectious disease with the response of the immune system to pathogenic microorganisms. Additionally, in this major you will develop the ability to acquire, analyse and apply information from multiple sources, both within and beyond the laboratory.

This major will open up career opportunities in areas including:

• Diagnostics
• Forensic microbiology
• Vaccine development
• Molecular biology
• Biotechnology
• Biosafety and Regulation.

You may also choose to undertake research in related areas such as:

• Infectious diseases
• The genetics and pathogenesis of the causative agent
• The various outcomes of the immune system in a setting of infection
• Autoimmunity
• Cancer.

The Microbiology and Immunology major is also an ideal undergraduate area of study for students wanting to enter graduate schools in medicine and allied health.