Microbiology & Immunology
Dalhousie Microbiology and Immunology students study microorganisms including viruses, bacteria and parasites, and investigate how the body protects itself from the microbes that cause infectious diseases and tumours. With a solid foundation in the sciences, Microbiology and Immunology students are proficient in cutting-edge theories and practices and are an asset in a wide range of work settings.
Student skills
Junior students (work term 1)
- Introductory microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology and genetics
- Aseptic technique
- Dilution streaking / pure culture
- Light microscopy
- Serial dilution
- Replica plating
- Isolation and plaque purification of a virus from soil
- DNA isolation/transformation
Intermediate students (work term 2)
- Intermediate (3rd year) virology, bacteriology, immunology and nucleic acid biochemistry
- Plasmid DNA extraction
- Gel electrophoresis
- Bioinformatics
Senior students (work term 3)
- Advanced virology, medical microbiology, microbial genetics, cancer biology and / or immunology
- Advanced laboratory skills
Industries
- Pharmaceuticals
- Clinical research
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Government health offices
- University research
- Food processing
- Pediatrics
Past roles
- Lab technician
- Field technician
- Research assistant
- Development associate
Past employers
- Dalhousie University
- IWK Health Centre
- Cape Breton University
- Immunovaccine Inc.
- Precision Biologic Inc.
Work term schedule
| Fall | Winter | Summer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd year | Study | Study | Work term 1 |
| 3rd year | Study | Work term 2 | Study |
| 4th year | Work term 3 | Study | Break |
| 5th year | Study | Graduation |
Microbiology & Immunology co-op student work term schedules may vary from the example displayed above.
Average pay rates during co-op
| Hourly | $ 20.00 |
|---|
Department
Faculty of Science: Microbiology and Immunology website.