About

Welcome to the Department of Virology, Immunology & Microbiology (aka VIM). Our department blends three key elements, cutting edge research, high-quality biomedical training, and a diverse, collaborative community.

Research in the department focuses on understanding the molecular biology of human pathogens, the molecular and cellular basis for the diseases they cause, and the mechanisms underlying development of protective or aberrant immune responses. We use this knowledge to inform research into countermeasures to stem human disease. Our strengths have allowed our faculty to develop a robust and diverse funding portfolio and our research groups publish cutting-edge research in leading journals.

Our education mission includes providing biomedical research training to graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, and microbiology and immunology education to dental and master’s students. We also welcome post-baccalaureate, undergraduate, and summer scholar students into our laboratories. We strive to maximize the synergy between education and research and to promote a supportive culture that encourages inquiry and discussion.

At the heart of the department is a diverse and inclusive community of scientists, educators, and administrative staff. We believe that the inclusion of faculty, staff and trainees with different life experiences enhances our scholarship and promotes excellence. To cultivate an academic community that reflects the diversity found within society, our faculty act as mentors for the BU post-baccalaureate research education program (BU-PREP) and Summer Training as Research Scholars (STaRS) training programs. We also work to ensure equity in faculty and staff recruitment and promotion procedures. Importantly, we work to promote an environment in which all members of the department are valued for their unique contributions.

We encourage you to find out more by clicking on the research, training, and VIM community links on these pages.