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!
JD Sauer, MDTP Director
Chuck Kaspar, 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
Megan Dixon
Megan studies the biology of plant pathogens that promote the survival of Salmonella on tomato plants. In her free time, she loves to cook Filipino food, care for her houseplants, and paint in her sketchbook. She has also recently discovered an appreciation for bicycling. Places that Megan loves to visit in Madison include the Olbrich Botanical Gardens (pictured) and the Dane County Farmer's Market.
Soleil Young
Soleil studies the evolution of the fungal cultivar, most commonly of the genus Leucoagaricus, of fungus-farming ants. She is interested in the evolution of sex and the evolution of mutualisms, and wants to explore both from a microbial perspective (especially as microbes represent most of life's diversity). Outside of the lab, she enjoys video games like animal crossing, biking, and as of recently, jigsaw puzzles. The photo above was illustrated by her friend Sara Zadrima.
Elizabeth McDaniel
Elizabeth studies bacterial communities of engineered wastewater systems using enrichment-culture techniques and metagenomic approaches. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys practicing yoga, playing the violin in the Middleton Community Orchestra, and biking. The Madison area has a great live music scene and bike trails.