Illustration of mitochondria viewed at the microscopic scale.

Microbiology and Immunology

Why choose Microbiology and Immunology

Every cell is an immune cell, and microbes are everywhere!  

Join Microbiology and Immunology (MIC) for cutting-edge research that makes our program one of the leading programs nationwide. Research in virology and vaccinology, immunology and immunotherapy, phage discovery and therapy, and many other emerging themes.  

You’ll be immersed in vibrant labs, mentored by engaged faculty, and supported by a collaborative community that champions curiosity, rigor, and impact.  

We offer a broad range of fundamental, translational and clinical research opportunities that create an exceptional training environment. You will develop both the skills to conduct cutting‑edge research and the ability to think critically about scientific challenges.

We will train you to shape the world of tomorrow.

From immunology to virology to microbiology, we tackle the big questions that define today’s challenges. This work empowers you to discover more, act smarter, and translate breakthroughs faster. 

A message from one of our students

Sara Asif Student

The MIC program at uOttawa provides an excellent training experience, offering opportunities for research, collaboration, and close mentorship within faculty. The program has equipped students like myself with essential skills needed to succeed in a wide range of careers in biomedical science

Sara Asif – PhD Student 

Program highlights

  • Excellent financial support and travel awards: more than 80% of students have scholarships
  • One of the highest research-intensive programs
  • The program has close ties with the government, hospitals and research institutes across Ottawa to favour multidisciplinary research 

Career pathways

As a graduate from the Microbiology and Immunology program, you will be well prepared for a diverse range of rewarding career opportunities. You will be equipped to pursue roles in:  

  • Medicine
  • Research in academia
  • Industry
  • Government
  • Policy development  

Program options

Program Options

Criteria

Master’s thesis 

Master’s research project

Doctorate

Program type

Research-intensive

Applied, non-thesis

Research-intensive

Duration

 2 years / 24 months

1 year / 12 months

4 years / 48 months

Thesis required

Yes

No

Yes

Research project

No

Yes

No

Concentrations available

Yes

  • Bioinformatics

No (general program only)

Yes

  • Bioinformatics

Ideal for students who...

Want to pursue a PhD, academic research, or specialized research careers 

Want to quickly enter the workforce  

Want to develop their critical thinking skills while developing a strong know-how in relevant topics in immunology and microbiology 

Language of study

English

English

English

Concentration Options

Close-up of a finger pressing a keyboard key labeled “Bioinformatics” with a folder icon, representing access to bioinformatics files, data, or digital resources.

Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is an emerging and increasingly important scientific discipline dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental questions about the structure, function and evolution of biological entities through the design and application of computational approaches.
Fundamental research in these areas is expected to increase our understanding of human health and disease which translates into innovation in industry. Bioinformaticians today must be able to appreciate significant research in other fields and therefore require an understanding of the basic principles of other disciplines.The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates "specialization in Bioinformatics.

Areas of research

  • Cancer Biology: 

    How cancer cells repair their DNA, regulate their genes, differentiate, migrate, and recruit blood vessels to uncover the mechanisms of disease

  • Cell, Genetic & Developmental Biology: 

    Fundamental mechanisms that govern cell function, investigate new therapies for genetic diseases and conceive novel approaches

  • Immunology: 

    A discipline studying the role of the immune system and its contributions to defense against pathogens and to diseases such as arthritis and cancer.

  • Structural & Chemical Biology: 

    Disciplines from biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals to precision medicine and collectively uses other approaches

  • Systems & Computational Biology: 

    While biology provides the context for applying these technologies, computation mathematically and spatial modelling enable the molecular exploration

  • Viral & Bacterial Pathogenesis: 

    A scientific field dedicated to the study of pathogens such as viruses and bacteria and their interplay with the immune system 

Research centers and institutes

  • Center for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation
  • Centre for Research in Biopharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
  • Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology
  • University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute

Fast Track

Thinking about a PhD already? If your research is progressing exceptionally well, fast-tracking lets you move directly into the PhD and keep your momentum going, helping you focus on bigger research goals sooner.
This option is only available to students in the master’s with thesis option.

Take the next step

Start your journey with the essential information and resources to help you plan your academic path and achieve your goals.