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!
Garret Suen, MDTP Director
Katrina Forest, Bacteriology Chair
Rod Welch, Medical Microbiology & Immunology Chair
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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

Mark Horton
Mark studies the emergent fungal pathogen Candida auris and the innate immune response to these infections. He is specifically interested in understanding the neutrophil response and interaction with these yeast. When outside the lab, he enjoys spending time outdoors near the multiple lakes, playing intramural or pickup sports, and sampling the vast array of local beers.

Aldo Arellano
Aldo studies microbial ecology in the context of symbiosis and aquatic environments. He uses the water-filled leaves of carnivorous pitcher plants in Wisconsin bogs to investigate the cross-trophic interactions and energy flow among aquatic invertebrates, bacteria, and fungi. He is particularly interested in understanding the physiological relationship and inter-dependencies between the obligate mosquito symbiont and its associated microbial community. Insights into the nutritional ecology of these non-blood feeding mosquito populations may shed light onto the evolutionary roles microbes have played in modulating mosquito vector potential. Aldo enjoys the winter scenes and activities Madison has to offer, especially ice skating. He also enjoys baking, sci-fi, and caring for an ever-growing collection of houseplants.

Anna Gregory
Anna is a first-year student who studies the gut microbiome, focusing on the pathogen Clostridioides difficile. She is interested in understanding how gut microbiota metabolites impact C. difficile fitness and how this information can be used to develop novel therapies for C. difficile infections (CDI). In her free time, Anna enjoys doing jigsaw puzzles, hiking, and spending time at local cafes. Having moved to Madison last August, she is eagerly anticipating trying all the coffee Madison has to offer post-pandemic.