The Center for Tropical Diseases (CTD) UTMB Affiliated Centers and Programs

UTMB Affiliated Centers and Programs

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Institute for Human Infections and Immunity web page banner
Institute for Human Infection and Immunity
The Institute for Human Infections and Immunity (IHII) at the University of Texas Medical Branch serves as the central hub for advancing research in the fields of infection and immunity. Its mission is to coordinate, facilitate, and enhance the work of UTMB’s research centers and programs dedicated to understanding infectious diseases. The IHII focuses on translating groundbreaking research into practical solutions aimed at controlling emerging infectious diseases and mitigating their impact on global health.
Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases
Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Disease
The UTMB Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases (CBEID), established in 2003, conducts critical research to address the global challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases and biological threats. With a focus on biodefense, the center works to reduce vulnerability to biological weapons and alleviate the impact of infectious diseases through basic, translational, and field research. The CBEID’s multidisciplinary team specializes in studying pathogens, vaccine development, antimicrobial drug development, and diagnostics. The center is instrumental in generating new countermeasures for high-priority pathogens and supporting global health efforts through innovative research and education.
Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences
Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences
The Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences (SIVS) at UTMB, inaugurated in 2018, leads global efforts in vaccine research, development, and policy. Building on the success of the Sealy Center for Vaccine Development, SIVS fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to advance scientific discoveries into the development phase. The institute oversees a robust Clinical Trials Program and preclinical research, with notable accomplishments including over 63 clinical trials and designation as a WHO Collaborating Center for Vaccine Research. SIVS also supports the education of future vaccinologists through its Vaccinology Track in partnership with the Human Pathophysiology and Translational Medicine graduate program.
Galveston National Laboratory building
Galveston National Laboratory
The Galveston National Laboratory (GNL) at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) is a premier high containment research facility focused on advancing global public health. Partially funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), GNL conducts critical research on emerging pathogens such as Ebola, Marburg, and COVID-19, as well as disease vectors like mosquitoes and ticks. The GNL's work aims to develop diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines to address global health threats. Supported by federal agencies, private foundations, and the biopharmaceutical industry, GNL plays a vital role in infectious disease research and outbreak preparedness.
McLaughlin Endowment
McLaughlin Endowment
The James W. McLaughlin Endowment, established in 1952 by A.C. McLaughlin, funds fellowships for research in infection and immunity. Named after Dr. James W. McLaughlin, a UTMB professor from 1897 to 1905, the endowment honors his contributions to medical education, infectious disease research, and the integration of laboratory science with clinical medicine.
Special Pathogens Excellence in Clinical Treatment, Readiness, and Education Program
SPECTRE
The Special Pathogens Excellence in Clinical Treatment, Readiness, and Education Program (SPECTRE) at UTMB strengthens preparedness for special pathogens through clinical readiness, education, research, and collaboration. We support the Biocontainment Care Unit (BCU), develop training programs, and coordinate with healthcare and public health entities for an effective response. Our multidisciplinary team includes experts in medicine, global health, biosafety, epidemiology, and infection control.
Infectious Disease
Division of Infectious Diseases
The Infectious Disease academic division is committed to excellence in patient care, education, and research, specializing in infectious diseases, global health, and tropical medicine. With over 800 published works and significant contributions to key textbooks, the division leads programs such as Healthcare Epidemiology, Antimicrobial Stewardship, and SPECTRE, which includes a biocontainment unit for high-containment pathogens. Fellowship programs offer advanced training in clinical care, research, and global health, including a Master’s in Clinical Investigation. The division is recognized for its clinical expertise, with faculty distinguished as “Best Doctors in America” and “Texas Super Doctors.”