University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Nucleic Acids Core

Knowledge in the biological and biomedical sciences continues to accelerate at a remarkably rapid pace. All of us are witnessing this extraordinary scientific revolution and almost endless application of today's discoveries and modern technologies to improve tomorrow's lifestyles and societal well-being. Recent observations concerning the influence of the microbiome on human health and disease further reinforce the fundamental contributions and influence of microorganisms on immunity, inflammation, nutrition, metabolic integrity, and neurological development. Therefore, training in the Infection, Inflammation and Immunity (Triple I) discipline of the Integrated Biomedical Sciences (IBMS) Graduate Program offers many exciting opportunities to become the multitalented, innovative and interdisciplinary scientist and educator required to compete in today's evolving scientific world.

The Triple I program emphasizes interactive and self-directed courses in microbiology and immunology as well as meaningful exposure to other biomedical disciplines, which provides appropriate and relevant intellectual balance and preparation. Advanced courses in many key scientific areas of Microbiology and Immunology are available, so that students can build upon their expanding knowledge base. Furthermore, students learn to write and critique grant proposals, develop skills in communication, and discuss the ethical basis of scientific research and conduct. Thus, our responsibility to graduate students in the Microbiology and Immunology Program is to provide focused yet sufficiently broad educational and research experiences, so that each student encounters and utilizes state-of-the-art approaches to further their investigative talents and research explorations. This commitment will enable trainees to prepare for the range of exciting career choices that await them in the fields of academia, biotechnology, government, and numerous other cross-over professional specialties.