PhD in Immunology in Davis United States | University of California Davis

The Immunology PhD program is granted upon successfully completing three key stages: (1) coursework, (2) an oral qualifying exam, and (3) original, independent research culminating in a written dissertation. Course requirements vary depending on whether students pursue a standalone PhD or combined degrees (MD/PhD or DVM/PhD), as detailed in their specific Study Plans. While core immunology courses form the foundation, students also choose supplementary courses to build broad knowledge, prepare for their qualifying exam, and support their dissertation research. Course selection is guided by both the academic advisor and faculty mentor (primary professor). After completing lab rotations in the first two quarters, students select a faculty mentor and formulate their research proposal.

Our Immunology Graduate Group provides a dynamic, interdisciplinary program in this rapidly evolving biomedical field that intersects with numerous disciplines. State-of-the-art techniques like genomics, mouse genetics, and molecular biology create exceptional opportunities to expand our understanding of fundamental immunology in disease mechanisms and treatments. Our collaborative faculty members investigate diverse immunological areas, with one program emphasis being infection and immunity—encompassing host responses to pathogens, vaccine development, and immune regulation. Additional research focuses include nutrition's role in immunity, allergies, autoimmune disorders, cancer immunotherapy, and diagnostic/therapeutic applications of immune mediators. This research breadth, combined with our comprehensive curriculum, equips students with the expertise for successful careers across modern immunology's many specialties.