The Department of Immunology & Microbial Disease has an emphasis on infectious disease pathogenesis and protection. The emergence of new pathogens, the increasing development of drug resistance and the threat of bioterrorism have combined to create an increased demand for investigations into the mechanisms of disease and the body’s ability to combat these diseases. Specialized areas within the Department of Immunology & Microbial Disease include immunology, microbial and viral pathogenesis, and molecular mechanisms responsible for human disease.