EXPERIENCE WORLD-CLASS MICROBIOLOGY TRAINING
Now is an exciting time to be doing microbiology research! The confluence of cutting edge experimental tools and approaches combined with novel applications to environmental, industrial and clinical needs, makes microbiology one of the most dynamic and important areas of science. Career possibilities abound in academic research, industry, teaching, government service, and other avenues. If you have a strong academic record, significant research experience, and you seek training in a top ranked microbiology PhD program, the Microbiology Doctoral Training Program at UW-Madison offers an ideal training environment.
There’s a lot to consider when evaluating graduate programs including access to cutting edge and impactful science, a rich environment outside the lab, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion; these are all worthy goals, and they can co-exist. If you are looking for a graduate program with a commitment to student training, a top ranked research university with national and international prominence all in a setting ranked as one of the top places to live and work, think UW MDTP!
Trina McMahon, MDTP Director
Katrina Forest, Bacteriology Chair
Vanessa Sperandio, Medical Microbiology & Immunology Chair
MDTP now has a dedicated donation account through UW Foundation! Learn more here.
OUR PROGRAM IS COMMITTED TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
The Microbiology Doctoral Training Program is committed to the strength only diversity can bring. We strive to fully support all members of our community – Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQ+, first-generation, people with disabilities and all marginalized groups.
We all belong here at MDTP, all of us make our program great, all of us have a place in STEM.
We encourage prospective students from all backgrounds to learn more about our program and apply!
MEET MDTP STUDENTS
Holly Nichols
Holly is a student in Kerri Coon’s lab. She studies adaptation and community assembly in mosquito gut microbes. Holly enjoys getting outdoors by biking, hiking, and taking pictures of bugs. Originally from Georgia, she enjoyed adapting her habits to the Madison winter. During the colder months she likes to sew and walk out on the lakes - but not too far.
Gillian Hughes
Gillian is a student in the Alexander lab researching the effects of diet and microbiome on the immune response related to the development and persistence of autoimmune diseases. Outside the lab, she enjoys yoga and paddleboarding on Lake Mendota when it’s sunny out, and puzzles and playing Zelda on cold and rainy days. Gillian loves Italian food and is searching for the best pasta in Madison.
Jassim Al-Oboudi
Jassim is a student in Chris Hittinger’s lab at the Wisconsin Energy Institute. He studies the ecology, evolution, and biodiversity of wild yeasts and their potential biotechnology applications. Jassim wants to understand the diversity and environmental roles of these relatively understudied unicellular fungi. Originally from southern California, he has been enthusiastically enjoying the experience of real seasons in Madison. When he is not having fun with fungi he enjoys hiking, playing the piano, and reading old science fiction.