Medical Microbiology & Immunology (MMI)
Welcome to the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology
The Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology (MMI) was formed in 1995 by the merger of the Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases and the Department of Immunology. The merger recognized the natural link between infectious diseases (offence) and host immunity (defence) as two sides of the same coin, and it positioned our department to become a leader in the growing research field of pathogen-host relationships.
Programs + Education
Graduate Studies
MMI offers PhD and thesis-based MSc degrees. Areas of specialization include Bacteriology, Immunology, Parasitology and Virology. Research focuses on cellular and molecular immunology, microbial pathogenesis, and the development of novel methods for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. The program requirements include coursework in the discipline, teaching experience, and the development of skills in research presentations. The program is designed to allow easy transition of MSc students into the PhD program and a rotation option at program entry is open to all students.
Undergraduate Studies
As a research-focused department, MMI does not have a full undergraduate training program. However, together with the Department of Biological Sciences we have created the popular Immunity & Infection (IMIN) program that offers a curriculum focused on infectious diseases viewed from both the pathogen and host immune system perspectives.
Message From the Chair
Welcome to the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Alberta. We are a research-intensive unit that pursues dynamic projects in the areas of bacteriology, immunology, and virology. Our research foci include host-pathogen interactions, virus infection and replication, immune responses to pathogens, bacterial pathogenesis, as well as autoimmunity and cancer immunology. Our research goals are to create and improve therapeutic agents, vaccines, and physiological interventions to improve health, and diminish or prevent disease. Our strong graduate student program prepares graduates for entry into exceptional careers over a wide spectrum of areas and diverse capacities.
Dr. Kevin Kane
Professor and Interim Chair
News + Events
ImmuNet Research Day
The 31st annual ImmuNet Research Day will be will be held IN PERSON in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Dates To Be Decided. Watch for updates in May 2027