Welcome to the Department of Immunology & Microbiology
The Department of Immunology and Microbiology focuses on conducting state-of-the-art research, advanced training, and education in all areas of host-pathogen interaction. As the body's immune system is the first line of defense, thus harnessing immune systems to help fight against human diseases is our scientific and institutional goal.
About
The Department of Immunology and Microbiology at the UTRGV School of Medicine focuses on the molecular and immunologic bases of chronic human diseases, that are common at the US-Mexican border, including cancer, viral, bacterial, and parasitic illnesses (Zika, Chagas disease). Our research team also concentrates on vaccine development, immunotherapies, and other clinical and translational research.
Mission
The UTRGV Immunology & Microbiology department conducts world-class research, provides quality education and establishes a unique platform to interface basic, translational and clinical investigations, along with outreach health services in the field of Microbiology and Immunology. Our mission is to serve the Rio Grande Valley community by educating and training a diverse set of graduate, medical, and postdoctoral professionals, whose support facilitates our medical research and educational initiatives. The goal of the department is to achieve international recognition on prominent infectious diseases of humans and develop the Cancer Immunology Institute to advance patient care in South Texas and beyond.
Vision
Our vision is to become a premier, nationally, and internationally recognized department for excellence in biomedical education and research. We are focused on achieving excellence in advanced translational research and educational opportunities in the field of Microbiology and Immunology.
Values
- Integrity in teaching and learning
- Engaging in responsible conduct of academic and scientific research
- All students, residents, fellows, and faculty contribute towards our mission
- Partnership with industry, academia, and government agencies on the development of vaccines, biologics, biosimilars, and immunotherapies
- To develop a special place in the university while promoting community outreach and engagement
We look forward to welcoming you to our program and being part of the success stories we create in the field of Immunology and Microbiology in the Rio Grande Valley.
Initiatives
Interim Department Chair
Sarah Williams-Blangero, PhD
Interim Department Chair
Contact
Gerardo Pequeno
Administrative Associate
Department of Immunology & Microbiology
UTRGV Biomedical Research Bldg.
5300 L. St. McAllen, TX 78504
Email: Gerardo.Pequeno01@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 296-1709
