PhD / Doctor of Medicine in Immunology Training in Boston United States | Boston University

The Immunology Training Program (ITP) brings together faculty from various departments across Boston University's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, along with the Schools of Public Health and Dental Medicine, for interdisciplinary education and research.

Originally focused on studying how hosts respond to infectious diseases in the late 1800s, immunology has expanded far beyond its early scope. Today, it explores the immune system's complex interactions with all bodily systems related to health and disease, consistently driving biotechnological advancements.

ITP graduates acquire the expertise to work as research immunologists in academic or professional environments. Through conferences and publications, they join the immunology community as respected contributors.

Supported by an NIH T32 Training Grant for Immunology Research, the ITP accepts students through Virology, Immunology & Microbiology or Pathology Departments, offering tailored coursework. The program features literature-based learning, distinguished guest lectures, dynamic journal discussions, and intensive lab experience. With small classes and close faculty mentorship, students can shape their studies around specialized research interests.

Participants may select any ITP faculty member, regardless of department, for research guidance. Key focus areas among ITP researchers include:

lymphocyte growth and specialization
self-identification and autoimmune disorders
cytokine/chemokine functions
natural immunity and inflammatory responses
cancer immunology and immune-based treatments
gene expression control
viral infection defenses
immune system toxicology
therapeutic vaccines and immunotherapies
computer-assisted immunology studies