This course will meet once weekly to read primary scientific literature in the field of vaccine biology. We will survey different types of vaccines, their history, and the molecular and cellular basis of their protective efficacy. The papers chosen for this course range from classic papers whose discoveries are fundamental to vaccination, to recent studies that highlight both the successes and shortcomings of modern vaccine technology. We will also discuss the current state of vaccinology, including portrayal in the media, and the future of vaccine design.

Completion or concurrent enrollment in an immunology class such as MCB 150 is highly recommended but not required.

Students are expected to have read and be prepared to discuss the assigned article each week. Each student will present 1 - 2 scientific articles to the class over the semester. This presentation should include relevant background information on what was known and unknown in the field at the time paper was published, a survey of techniques used in the paper, an explanation of each of the figures, a brief summary of the paper, and future directions. On the days that you are not presenting, you will turn in answers to questions outlined on the syllabus which will help prepare you for discussion.