University of San Francisco

What you'll study

This PhD focuses on advanced training in microbial biology and immunology through a combination of coursework, research rotations, seminars and a thesis research project. Core topics typically include molecular and cellular microbiology, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, innate and adaptive immunity, host–microbe interactions, microbial genetics, and immunological techniques.

• Foundational coursework: advanced molecular biology, cellular immunology, microbial physiology and genetics.
• Experimental methods: flow cytometry, microscopy, next‑generation sequencing, proteomics, microbial culture and containment practices, and bioinformatics approaches for analyzing microbial and immune datasets.
• Specialist modules or seminars: microbial pathogenesis, vaccine development, microbial ecology and the microbiome, systems immunology and translational immunotherapy.
• Research rotations: early-stage lab rotations allow students to gain practical experience and select a dissertation laboratory based on mutual fit and research interests.
• Teaching and professional development: opportunities to gain teaching experience as a graduate instructor, and workshops on grant writing, scientific communication and responsible conduct of research.
• Dissertation research: sustained original research under faculty supervision, culminating in a written thesis and oral defence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant graduate degree (for example a master's) or often a strong honours bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry or a closely related discipline, together with substantial laboratory experience. Successful candidates typically demonstrate evidence of research potential.

• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in undergraduate and any postgraduate study in relevant subjects.
• Research experience, shown through a CV, publications, presentations or a research statement describing prior projects and technical skills.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors who can attest to the applicant’s research abilities and potential for doctoral study.
• A personal statement outlining research interests, reasons for pursuing a PhD and fit with the department’s strengths; some applicants may be asked to identify prospective faculty mentors.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university requirements.

Specific programme requirements and application materials vary; applicants should consult the department’s admissions guidance for up‑to‑date details.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Microbiological Sciences and Immunology pursue a wide range of careers across academia, industry and public service. Common pathways include:

• Academic research and teaching positions, including postdoctoral research fellowships leading to faculty roles.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry roles in research and development, vaccine and therapeutics discovery, translational science, and quality control.
• Clinical and diagnostic laboratory leadership, including positions in clinical microbiology, hospital laboratories and public-health laboratories.
• Positions in government or non‑profit sectors focused on infectious disease surveillance, epidemiology, regulatory science and science policy.
• Careers in scientific communication, patent law (with additional training), and management or consulting roles that value technical expertise in microbiology and immunology.

Why study at University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco offers doctoral students personalised mentorship within a research-active environment and benefits from its location in the San Francisco Bay Area, a major hub for biomedical research and biotechnology. Students can take advantage of interdisciplinary collaborations, seminar series and networking opportunities with nearby research institutes, hospitals and industry partners.

USF emphasises small cohort sizes and close faculty–student interactions, which support tailored training plans and professional development. The university also foregrounds ethical practice and community engagement in science, preparing graduates to conduct rigorous, socially responsible research with real-world impact.