We are glad that you are interested in our Doctoral Program. The Program is designed to educate students in the art and science of biomedical research, and to give him/her the experience and training needed to become an independent scientist. We offer state-of-the-art training in microbiology, immunology, virology, molecular biology, cancer research, pathogenesis of infectious diseases, and related disciplines. Students that graduate from our Program receive excellent preparation for a future in biomedical research and have gone on to successful careers (learn more about our former students). 

What is Microbiology & Immunology?

Diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and other microbial organisms cause widespread suffering throughout the world and in our own communities. At the same time, microbiologists are making breathtaking progress in understanding and combatting infectious pathogens through innovative molecular, biochemical, and computational technologies.

The doctoral program in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology provides an environment for the student to learn how to think; to ask questions and to answer them in the laboratory and library; to write and communicate; and to develop into a mature, articulate, and competent biomedical scientist.

Why choose to train at LSU Health Shreveport?

• Our faculty are internationally recognized and conduct research published in high impact journals. 
• A high faculty to student ratio (approaching 1:1) results in a supportive and individualized training environment. 
• Coursework is completed in the first year so students can focus early on research.
• No teaching assistantships or other work responsibilities are required for financial support, allowing 100% effort for research.
• Students develop teaching skills in many settings, including in formal seminars and in less formal journal clubs and data meetings (virology, bacteriology).  Additionally, workshops on teaching and seminar preparation are a standard part of the curriculum.
• All students gain experience in written scientific communication by writing grants and proposals. 
• Students host and interact with Distinguished Lecturers and all visiting seminar speakers.  
• The Department and the School of Medicine offer state-of-the art core facilities and instrumentation, including two BSL3 laboratories.  The LSU Health Shreveport Medical Library provides instant access to over 4000 online scientific journals.
• The Department hosts an NIH-supported Center for Molecular and Tumor Virology to foster excellence in virology research.
• Students are supported  by nationally competitive stipends.  Tuition is waived for all full time graduate students in good standing.
• Quality of life in Shreveport is high, but cost of living is low. There are many interesting things to see and do in the area.  Click here for more information.

Shreveport is a great place to live, work and play. Explore our city - click here!

Department of Microbiology & Immunology