Immunology Curriculum
The Immunology PhD curriculum provides students with advanced training in molecular and cellular immunology, inflammatory diseases, and translational research. Students begin their graduate studies with a summer course focused on foundational immunology concepts and clinical experiences with Tufts Medical Center clinicians, providing insight into how immunology research can inform patient care.
First-Year Overview
Students begin with foundational coursework, clinical experiences, seminars, and journal clubs that introduce key concepts in immunology and translational research. They also complete laboratory rotations to explore research areas, develop new techniques, and identify the faculty mentor and research environment that best align with their scientific interests. Through close mentorship and a collaborative research community, students prepare to begin dissertation research and develop as independent scientists. At the end of the first year, students select a thesis advisor and transition into full-time dissertation research.
Didactic Coursework
Students complete a combination of required and elective courses that provide a broad and in-depth understanding of immunology, inflammation, biochemistry, and scientific ethics. Coursework is designed to help students develop the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to investigate complex biological questions and conduct innovative research.
More information about specific courses can be found in the GSBS Catalog.
Qualifying Exam
The Immunology PhD qualifying examination evaluates students’ ability to think independently, develop scientific questions, and design rigorous research approaches. Students prepare and defend an original research proposal unrelated to their dissertation research, demonstrating their ability to analyze scientific literature, develop hypotheses, and propose experimental strategies.
Faculty mentors provide guidance throughout the preparation process, helping students strengthen their scientific reasoning and research skills.
Seminars, Journal Clubs & Scientific Community
Immunology PhD students participate in seminars, journal clubs, and research workshops that encourage scientific discussion, collaboration, and professional development.
Journal Club
Throughout their training, Immunology PhD students participate in journal clubs designed to strengthen their ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, discuss emerging discoveries, and communicate research findings.
During the first year, students participate in a faculty-guided journal club that complements foundational immunology coursework. Students present and analyze key research papers, exploring the scientific questions, experimental approaches, findings, and broader implications. This experience helps students develop skills in scientific reading, discussion, and presentation.
As students progress into dissertation research, advanced journal clubs focus on current literature in immunology and related fields. Students engage in deeper critical analysis, examining the significance of new discoveries and how research findings advance understanding in the field.
Immunology Seminar Series
The Immunology Program hosts a seminar series featuring leading researchers from around the world. Students engage directly with guest speakers through scientific discussions, informal meetings, and journal clubs focused on current research in immunology.
The program also hosts the annual Sidney Leskowitz Memorial Lecture, honoring the founder of the Immunology Graduate Program and his contributions to immunology education and research.
View the Seminar Schedule on the GSBS Calendar
Student Research Workshops
Each year, students engaged in thesis research present a 40-50 minute seminar highlighting their current findings and future research plans. These weekly workshops are attended by students, faculty, postdoctoral fellows, research associates, and technicians, creating opportunities for meaningful scientific discussion, feedback, and collaboration.
Research presentations allow students to gain insight from members of the Immunology community while helping thesis advisory committees assess student progress. The workshops also provide valuable training in scientific communication and presentation skills. First-year students participate by presenting research conducted during one of their laboratory rotations.