The Microbiology multidisciplinary training area aims to educate students in the principles and experimental approaches required for independent scientific investigations in the molecular mechanisms of virus-host interactions that include virus entry, replication, egress, the delineation of cellular and immune responses to viral infections in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. The research interests of the microbiology faculty investigate the understanding of how pathogens, including influenza virus, human immunodeficiency virus, human cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, poxvirus, and emerging viruses, such as West Nile, Zika, Dengue, SARS-CoV-2, and Ebola, infect and cause disease in the human host. In addition, trainees will learn about the development of antivirals such as chemical compounds or monoclonal antibodies, as well as the development of novel vaccines, to prevent viral-associated diseases. The need for well-trained virologists to comprehend the molecular dynamics of virus-host interactions is pertinent given the potential annual threat of a pandemic strain of the human influenza virus, emerging viruses, and continued health burden of virus-associated diseases.