Message from the Chair

Welcome to the Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

Our department stands at the forefront of modern biomedical discovery, dedicated to unraveling the fundamental molecular mechanisms that govern microbial function, genetics, and disease pathogenesis. As an essential anchor for the basic sciences at NJMS, we advance high-impact, collaborative research rooted in the core disciplines of biochemistry, structural biology, genetics, and chemistry. Our diverse research portfolio spans critical areas of human health and microbial biology, including microbial pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, antibiotic resistance, and immunology and inflammation. Furthermore, our faculty lead transformative investigations into gene expression, cell-cell communication, cancer biology and treatment, vitamin D signaling, and the vital mechanisms of DNA damage and repair, telomere biology, aging, cellular senescence, and mitochondrial function - ultimately translating these basic discoveries into therapeutic research and development.

This is a period of dynamic growth for our department. We are actively expanding our faculty and research footprint, fostering an environment where cutting-edge science thrives. Our investigative strength is amplified by a highly collaborative culture, with many of our faculty leveraging joint appointments or close synergies with neighboring institutes such as the Center for Immunity and Inflammation (CII), the Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), the Center for Virus-Host-Innate Immunity (CVHII), and the Center for Cell Signaling (CCS). These connections integrate our department into an ecosystem of expertise, empowering our faculty to push the boundaries of biomedical science with funding from the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense, and premier private foundations.

Our commitment to innovation extends directly into our mentorship programs. Utilizing a modern, open-laboratory layout, we provide a sophisticated and interactive research environment for our postdoctoral fellows as well as PhD, Master’s, MD/PhD, and MD candidates. Through rigorous training, weekly seminar series, and cross-disciplinary collaborations spanning both basic and clinical departments, we prepare the next generation of scientific leaders to tackle the world's most pressing health challenges.

Whether you are a prospective trainee, a potential faculty colleague, or a curious visitor, I invite you to explore our website to learn more about our ongoing research, our innovative academic programs, and our vibrant scientific community.