Immunology

Welcome to the Immunology specialist and major programs, which were designed to educate students about the complexities and intricacies of the mammalian immune system. Through the various Immunology courses we offer, you will learn how our body discriminates “self” from “non-self”, and mounts tailored and measured immune responses to combat infectious microorganisms (e.g. bacteria, viruses, parasites) while being tolerant to its own cells and tissues. Students will understand how breaches in tolerance towards self, or innocuous environmental substances or commensal microorganisms (i.e. microbiota) lead to autoimmune diseases (e.g. multiple sclerosis, diabetes, lupus), allergies (e.g. asthma) and inflammatory diseases (e.g. Crohn’s disease), respectively.

Importantly, students will realize how a better understanding of the immune system and its fundamental properties will help researchers design efficient immunotherapies to treat diseases. These are important topics in our societies, and immunotherapies using biologics (monoclonal antibodies, recombinant cytokines) or engineered immune cells (CAR-T cells) have recently constituted some of the most important and promising advances in the treatment of cancer and other diseases. In addition to providing a strong fundamental knowledge, the Department of Immunology and Trinity College offer research opportunities for motivated students.

Last but not least, The Immunology Students’ Association (IMMSA) is a wonderful student-run association supported by both the Department of Immunology and Trinity College. Their team hosts numerous educational, scientific, networking and social events throughout the year, to help students connect with fellow students and members of the faculty, improve the undergraduate experience and prepare for the future. We at the Department of Immunology firmly endorse the objectives of IMMSA and congratulate the students in their role of fostering excellence in our community. We hope that students enjoy what these programs have to offer.  

The Department of Immunology in collaboration with Trinity College co-ordinates the following programs: