University of Wisconsin - Madison
A collaboration between Dr. Mark Mandel and Dr. Andrew Mehle of the Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology (MMI) has uncovered a novel type of bacterial RNA-binding protein, revealing an unusual mechanism of bacterial gene regulation. In their recent paper, “RtmR is a membrane-embedded RRM family RNA-binding protein,” the researchers characterized RtmR, a protein found …
The British Mycological Society (BMS) has awarded Professor Nancy Keller the prestigious John Webster Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to fungal research and the wider mycology community. Recognized as one of the world’s leading mycologists, Professor Keller has made a remarkable impact on the field through her research spanning fungal genetics, secondary metabolism, …
The Fall 2026 edition of MMI News is here! In this issue we highlight some of our recent work and achievements while looking ahead to the opportunities, discoveries, and connections still to come! Here’s to a great year ahead!
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Shai Bel to the Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology! Dr. Bel joins us from Bar-Ilan University, where his research has focused on understanding how the intestine maintains its protective barrier—and why that barrier breaks down in inflammatory bowel diseases. In the Bel Lab, he combines state-of-the-art mouse models, high-resolution microscopy, and …
Gut bacteria produce a common compound called imidazole propionate. Higher levels of it contribute to dementia-related changes in the brain, a study reveals. By Chris Barncard August 12, 2026 A compound produced by bacteria in most people’s digestive tract increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and speeds up cognitive decline in dementia patients, making it an attractive …
Laura Knoll, PhD, associate dean for basic research training and professor, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH), has received a strategic start-up education grant from the Wisconsin Partnership Program (WPP) for the initiative Career Development and Pathway Partnerships: Training the Future Leaders of the …
Dr. Andrew Mehle has been selected as a recipient of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s distinguished Kellett Mid-Career Award, one of the institution’s highest recognitions for faculty excellence. The award recognizes outstanding faculty members who are seven to 20 years beyond their first promotion to a tenured position and who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in research, …
A multidisciplinary team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison has identified a promising new therapeutic candidate against Candida auris, an emerging fungal pathogen that has alarmed health officials worldwide because of its ability to resist multiple antifungal drugs and spread rapidly through hospitals and care facilities. “It’s a global public health threat,” says Jeniel Nett, a …
The Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison welcomed researchers and trainees on May 15 for the 2026 Perlman Symposium on Antibiotic Discovery and Development. The annual event brought together scientists from across disciplines to explore emerging discoveries in infectious disease research, antibiotic development, host-pathogen interactions, and the microbiome. This year’s …
Eighteen professors received Vilas Faculty Mid-Career Investigator Awards, recognizing research and teaching excellence. The award provides flexible research funding for three years. Anne Marie Singh, MD, is a professor of pediatrics, interim chief of the Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, and director of the Food Allergy Research and Education Clinical Research Center of Distinction. She …
The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters announced the 2026 class of Fellows, recognizing sixteen Wisconsinites who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to intellectual discourse and public service. Among this year’s honorees is Dr. David Andes, a globally recognized leader in infectious disease research and healthcare. The Wisconsin Academy Fellows Award honors educators, researchers, mentors, …
A new summer opportunity is launching to aspiring young scientists in the Madison area. Through a partnership with the Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the LSC Kramer Fund Summer Internship will provide a local student with hands-on experience in a professional research lab while exploring future pathways in science. Building …