Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Since 1968, our mission has been to provide the highest quality research and education possible in the interdisciplinary fields of microbiology, immunology and molecular genetics. Microbiology & Molecular Genetics About Us Message from the Chair Giving Jobs Contact Us People Faculty Members Project Scientists & Specialists Graduate Students Postdoctoral Scholars Research Education & Training Medical Education Graduate Program Postdoctoral Training Seminars Resources Home Research Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Faculty Researchers Students Community Get to Know Our People & Programs Our department takes pride in being ranked among the top microbiology departments in the country. We work together as scientists, educators and students to identify and address the most relevant problems in microbial pathogenesis, host cell biology and immune defense, and the host-pathogen interface. About Us Meet Our People Research Education & Training Resources Giving Excellence in Mentoring: Gina Lee Award Established The Gina Lee Award for Excellence in Mentoring Basic Science Research Trainees was established in 2025 in honor of our late colleague, Gina Lee, PhD, to recognize faculty who demonstrate outstanding commitment to trainee mentorship. Congratulations to the 2025 inaugural awardee, Cholsoon Jang, PhD (Biological Chemistry). Jang was selected for continuing Lee's scientific legacy — RNA metabolism and kidney cancer research — and upholding her dedication to mentoring research trainees at all levels. Seminars in Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Our seminars provide a platform for leading researchers to share cutting-edge findings, facilitate intellectual exchange and collaboration among faculty and students, and allow the broader scientific community to connect and learn from each other. View Seminars Join Our Team Explore current academic career opportunities in our department and apply today. Open Positions News Sep 28, 2026 | Graduate Studies UC Irvine School of Medicine's PhD Orientation 2026 Features & Briefs Graduate Studies Anatomy & Neurobiology Biological Chemistry Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Physiology & Biophysics Sep 28, 2026 | Graduate Studies Meet the Incoming School of Medicine PhD Students – 2026 Features & Briefs Graduate Studies Anatomy & Neurobiology Biological Chemistry Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Physiology & Biophysics Sep 01, 2026 | Knowridge Damaged Blood Cells May Trigger Tiny Brain Bleeds In the News UCI School of Medicine Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Anatomy & Neurobiology View All News Events Nov 3, 2026 UC Irvine Center for Neural Circuit Mapping Seminar | David Bennett, PhD Nov 5, 2026 Microbiology & Molecular Genetics Seminar Series | Lauren D. Palmer, PhD Nov 10, 2026 UC Irvine Center for Neural Circuit Mapping Seminar | Alessandra Angelucci, MD, PhD View All Events