Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

The research areas of the Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases encompass host-pathogen interactions, as well as the molecular and genetic basis of bacterial pathogenesis. The department conducts molecular studies of oncogenic RNA and DNA viruses, investigates fungal virulence factors and the genetics of pathogenic fungi, explores the pathogenicity of parasitic worms, and develops new approaches to parasite elimination. Additional studies focus on oncogenes and the molecular pathways of carcinogenesis.

Research in immunology and host defense includes the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of phagocytosis and the killing of phagocytosed microorganisms, cancer immunotherapy, and the molecular mechanisms of differentiation and activation of immune cells.

A hallmark of the department is its dual focus on understanding disease mechanisms and using this knowledge to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Faculty members engage in collaborative research with colleagues within the department as well as with researchers from other basic and clinical departments in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, as well as academic institutions both in Israel and internationally.

The department's research is supported by extramural grants, which also provide funding for predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees, fostering the development of the next generation of scientists.