The University of Texas Medical School at Houston
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics

MMG Curriculum

The overall goal of our curriculum is to prepare our students for a career as an independent scientist in microbiology, molecular genetics, and related fields. During the first year, courses consist of small-scale lectures. The Microbial Molecular Genetics and Microbial Physiology courses taken in the first year provide a broad overview of microbiology and are taught by the MMG program faculty. MMG students also generally take Current Methods in Molecular Research during the first year. This course is taught mainly by faculty in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program and provides an introduction to various research methods at your disposal. During the second year, MMG courses include Microbial Sensing and Signal Transduction, and Molecular Basis of microbial Pathogenesis. Although we do not know exactly what path your career will take, it is very likely that you will need to critically analyze literature, give presentations about your research, and write papers, reports and grant proposals. These second year courses are designed to teach you all of these skills and prepare you for the qualifying exam, in addition to expanding your knowledge of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. Second year MMG student also take an elective course.

Microbial Molecular Genetics

This course is an introductory graduate level course that provides students with a broad knowledge of molecular genetics, emphasizing the molecular genetics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes. Topics covered include gene and genome organization, gene expression, genetic mechanisms, and genetic experimental strategies.

Microbial Physiology

This course offers a comprehensive examination of the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbial cells and their physiology. Topics covered include structure and biogenesis (cell cytoplasm, envelop and surface structures), energy and metabolism (nutrient acquisition, membrane transport, respiration, fermentation, and biosynthetic networks), signaling and development (signal transduction, cell-cell communication, and cell differentiation), and pathogenesis (virulence factors and host response).

Current Methods in Molecular Research I & II

This two semester course provides an introduction to current methods for the study of biomolecules, including proteins and nucleic acids. Lectures focus on theory, instrumentation, practical applications with specific examples, and the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of each method. The first semester covers methods used primarily for the study of nucleic acids, while the second semester concentrates on methods used primarily for the study of proteins.

Microbial Sensing and Signal Transduction

This advanced course explores sensory reception and signal transduction in response to environmental stimuli in prokaryotes and lower eukaryotes.This course combines some introductory lectures by faculty with student presentations of the current literature. Our aim is to teach you both Microbiology and critical reading, thinking, and presentation skills

Molecular Basis of Microbial Pathogenesis

This is an advanced course covering current areas of interest in microbial pathogenesis, comprehensively reviewing the molecular basis of pathogenesis through lectures and student evaluations of recent scientific papers and reviews. Students in this course will write a mini grant proposal, which provides excellent preparation for the qualifying exam at the beginning of the third year. Please see the Molecular Basis of Microbial Pathogenesis webpage for more information.

Elective courses

Topics in Bioterrorism and Emerging Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response
Topics in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Cell Biology
Developmental Biology
Molecular Biology of Eukaryotic Cells
Immunology I
Molecular Basis of Cell Signaling
Evolution of DNA and Protein Sequences

Other requirements

All students in our graduate school are required to take Ethical Dimensions of the Biomedical Sciences. In addition, we expect our students to attend the MMG departmental seminar series, the MMG Journal Club, the Graduate Student Summer Seminar Series, and the MMG program retreat, requirements that offer students a chance to hone their presentation skills in a variety of formats and settings.