Education is an integral part of the MIRC, the largest Centre on McMaster University’s campus that provides education and training focused on immunology. The Centre is home to more than 40 graduate students and 20 postdoctoral trainees whose research projects are focused on basic and translational aspects of immunology, including immune responses to infectious diseases, mucosal immunity, cancer immunotherapy, innate immunity, allergy, asthma, chronic inflammatory conditions and autoimmunity.

The majority of the graduate students in MIRC are enrolled in Medical Sciences or Biochemistry graduate programs. The undergraduate students are introduced to and participate in cutting-edge immunology research through their 3^rd year project and 4^th year thesis courses, mainly through the Bachelor of Health Sciences, Biology and Biochemistry programs. In addition to the laboratory based training, the graduate and undergraduate students also expand their learning through a number of immunology courses offered by MIRC faculty. The immunology courses encourage students to expand their knowledge base through a variety of learning styles including problem-based learning, small group discussions, enquiry and didactic.

The graduate students and postdoctoral trainees also have an opportunity to practice their presentation skills by participation in the Immunology “Work in Progress” series. The overall training experience is second to none, because of the integrative and collaborative environment, open laboratories and free exchange of ideas and resources.