The Master of Medicine (Infection and Immunity) analyses the fundamental mechanisms of infectious diseases to find improved ways of combating them. This program is designed for health science and medical professionals who wish to increase their knowledge of infectious diseases, infection control and the immune system. Infectious diseases are found all over the world and in many cases present life-threatening risks to humans. As well as increasing resistance to antibiotics, the recurrence of known pathogens and the spread of new ones make infectious diseases a challenge for science. As an infection and immunity student, you will learn from leading academics in one of the strongest infection and immunity research disciplines in Australia. During this one-year degree, you will study a wide range of topics with a focus on improving your understanding of the functions of bacterial and viral genes, the mechanisms of viral and bacterial infections, and the mechanisms involved in the generation and regulation of immune responses. The program also aims to improve understanding of the principles and practices advocated for prevention and minimisation of infectious diseases in hospitals and laboratories, among the general community, and during disease outbreaks. It also provides you with training in state-of-the-art laboratory techniques used in the disciplines of infectious diseases and immunology. Careers & future study Future study options Outstanding graduates may be eligible to pursue a higher degree by research in the courses of Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Philosophy and Master of Surgery (by research) offered by Sydney Medical School. A research degree provides students with the opportunity to prepare a substantial piece of work which represents a significant contribution in a particular field of study; and to gain transferable skills in general research methodology. Sydney Medical School is affiliated with over 40 independent medical research institutes aimed at achieving medical firsts in specialist areas of health and medicine. It provides an outstanding environment for postgraduate research. Sydney Medical School's research activities consistently attract high levels of funding from the Commonwealth and state governments, overseas funding agencies and other public and private sources. Graduate opportunities The aim of the course is to produce graduates who will be able to effectively participate in future healthcare or research programs in infection or immunity anywhere in the world. Graduates of this course will be able to work in the following positions: microbiologists and immunologists (in hospitals, pathology labs, industry and government departments); scientists (in hospitals, pathology laboratories, industry and government departments); research officers (in tertiary/research institutions, industry and government departments); infection control consultants (in hospitals, nursing homes etc); health care workers (in hospitals, government departments and local councils); infection control and clinical immunology nursing staff (in hospitals, nursing homes etc); hospital epidemiologists; policy makers (in relevant fields); health and safety officers (in tertiary institutions, industry, local/state governments etc); public health officers (in hospitals, government departments and local councils); quarantine officers (at airports, shipping centres etc); aid workers in health care programs (overseas locations).