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
Aditya Kumar Pal
Aditya is currently researching the role of nucleotide (p)ppGpp in bacteriophage defense in bacteria. These molecules are key players in bacterial stress responses and are likely involved in phage defense mechanisms, a largely unexplored area. His work aims to shed light on the evolutionary arms race between bacteria and viruses that live together in the environment.
Outside of research, Aditya is a YouTuber, dedicated to guiding aspiring scientists through the PhD application process. In his free time, he enjoys playing badminton, cricket, and learning sailing & ice-skating. He also loves biking in Madison, even during the snow, and has a passion for photography.
Tony Yao
Tony studies the evolution of genes in natural products biosynthesis pathways to better understand how they can be leveraged for industrial production. Outside of the lab, Tony loves trying out new Madison restaurants!
Dinesh Kumar Kuppa Baskaran
Dinesh is a third year PhD student in the Anantharaman microbiome laboratory. His research focuses on understanding viral ecology, lifecycles and, bacteria-virus interactions in different environmental ecosystems including Lake Mendota. His work involves field sampling, metagenomic sequencing and data science to uncover new insights. Outside of research he enjoys traveling, exploring new cities, reading and writing stories.



