Microbiology has a significant history in its contribution to understanding the basic principles of life. In fact, much of the principle concepts in molecular biology trace their discovery to work in microbiology. The importance of microbiology is impossible to ignore once investigating almost any aspect of life. Cellular life and other microorganisms make up the majority of Earth's biodiversity, Earth's biomass, influences of human of health across the globe, and biologically based ingenuity. Microorganisms are the drivers of Earth's processes, like nutrient cycling and animal-environment interactions. Microorganisms cause infectious disease and enable life saving medicines. Microorganisms and microbiology allow continued innovations in biotechnology and molecular based research. And, certainly as we consider how life began and where life can exist, microbiology is fundamental.
Why UMass Microbiology?
Our faculty research and teach across a broad range of subjects, with emphasis on pathogens and human health, interactions between microbes and the environment, and microbes' essential role in biotechnology. We celebrate the importance of our science and all those that contribute to its creation.
As scientists, we are committed to expanding the discipline of microbiology by using diverse molecular, genetic, physiological, ecological, evolutionary, and applied translational approaches in order to drive new insights into the principles of life and how to wisely use them. As educators, we are committed to training students to apply these approaches and contribute to these insights with wisdom.
As a community, we are committed to creating a supportive environment allowing us to our best selves at the bench, in the classroom, and in the rooms in which we represent ourselves and our discipline. We hope to encourage each of us to show up as a whole person with various aspirations, talents, fears, and potential to tap into.
Our Core Values
We uphold the highest standards of honesty, rigor, and transparency in research, teaching, and professional conduct.
We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
We prioritize student success through active mentorship, experiential learning, and personalized academic support.
Interested in Our Microbiology Major?
Learn more about our program by making an appointment with an academic advisor or the Undergraduate Program Director, Heather Reed, through Navigate 360.