PhD in Biomedical Sciences – Immunology and Infectious Diseases

The PhD in Biomedical Sciences – Immunology and Infectious Diseases is a research intensive program designed to train students in immunology, host-pathogen interactions, and population biology of bacterial, parasitic, and viral infectious diseases in animals and humans.

Students conduct independent research under the direction of collaborative research faculty who are internationally recognized for their research in infectious diseases. Our graduates are highly competitive for positions in academia, industry, and government.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Protein Biotechnology Training Program

Open to WSU doctoral graduate students, the program promotes research careers by helping trainees attain essential experiences, skills, and knowledge, particularly in collaborative transdisciplinary protein research and biotechnology commercialization.

The College of Veterinary Medicine at WSU is home to leaders in infectious disease research. Getting a PhD degree in immunology and infectious diseases here will bolster my career as a veterinarian, helping me develop skills and competencies required to lead cutting edge research projects in the area of vaccine and therapeutic design, as a lifelong commitment to science and humanity.

Chris Akinsulie, graduate student in Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology

Integrated graduate program

  • Common core curriculum. Graduate students take common courses in biomedical ethics, responsible conduct, experimental design, and deconstruction of research.
  • 8-week lab rotations. Choose at least three labs and work alongside faculty researchers to discover your research interests and choose a mentor.
  • Professional development. Attend ongoing academic and career development training in our Leadership and Professional Series to enhance communication, mentoring, diversity, and leadership skills.

Tuition and financial resources


Graduate stories


About the department and school

The Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, in collaboration with the Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, offers advanced graduate training in infectious diseases and immunology with contemporary approaches to investigate transmission and pathogenesis. Our faculty are recognized as leaders in infectious disease research, including virology, parasitology, bacteriology, vaccine production, and immunology that threaten animal health on a local and global scale.

June morning Kamiak butte

Tours & Visits

Pullman is located in the Palouse region of the Inland Northwest, homelands of the Nimíipuu (Nez Perce) Tribe and Palus people. The Palouse has one of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in the world. Rolling hills and wide-open skies give the region its distinctive appeal.

Residents enjoy outdoor activities and the benefits of small town living with the cultural richness of bigger city life.