The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

.:. S P O T L I G H T .:.

Dr. Gerard Nau

After receiving his Bachelors degree in Microbiology from the University of Notre Dame, Dr. Nau completed a combined MD, PhD in Immunology through the... < more>

.:. F A S T F A C T S .:.

The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics ranked 8th in NIH awards for 2003 (and has been in the top 15 for the past 8 years).

Welcome!

Within the next several decades, the molecular basis of many of our most perplexing health problems will be characterized in fine detail. Through the use of complex genome databases and expression studies, we have already begun unraveling the molecular details of cell differentiation and tissue development. Yet there is so much more to understand. The tools of molecular biology and biochemistry will eventually lead us to a complete understanding of even complex processes as brain functioning and aging. These tools promise to reveal definitively the biochemical underpinnings of still-enigmatic disease processes such as those that occur in mental illness and auto-immunity. Many of today's most demanding medical problems may soon be treatable and even curable using emerging gene transfer techniques and stem cell transplantation.

The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine's Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics continues to develop into one of the nation’s leaders. Our NIH ranking among relevant departments, such as microbiology, genetics and biochemistry, remains at the 3rd or 4th position depending on the comparison. The department has more than 100 active grants, a remarkable number for our 28 grant-funded faculty. Our research programs continue to grow and include investigations in microbial pathogenesis, host responses to infection and immunity and vaccine development, virology and viral vectors, biochemistry, developmental biology, and genetics. The department has made considerable progress in establishing vaccine and bio-defense initiatives, molecular studies of cancer related processes, and projects related to Stem cells, mechanisms and treatment of pain, and organogenesis. MMG faculty now host two national center grants, one for gene therapy of cardiovascular disease and the second for the development of cell and gene therapies for muscle diseases.

From my perspective, the coming years are irresistibly alluring for those who aspire to a career in biology and medical science. Research endeavors in the biomedical sciences promise to be highly satisfying and intellectually challenging, particularly during the next few decades. This department provides an exceptionally exciting and vigorous academic environment for graduate training in modern biomedical research. Our faculty is highly enthusiastic and committed to developing the careers of young scientists. We are eager to join with you in a discovery process that will shape your professional pursuits and ensure that our future is in capable hands.

Sincerely,

Joseph C. Glorioso III
Chairman and William S. McEllroy Professor of Biochemistry
The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine