Comparative Immunology Certificate Program
This academic certificate provides students with in-depth training in the interdisciplinary research field of Comparative Immunology.  In general, Comparative Immunology is the study of the immune responses and defenses of animals other that humans.  Research areas include studies in domesticated animal health, the use of animal models for human biomedical research, and the hunt for natural products of biomedical interest.  Additionally, in recent years, there has been an increasing interest and concern raised about wildlife (terrestrial and aquatic)  health and diseases.  This field also includes the integration of immunology, endocrinology, and neuroscience. 



Comparative Immunology at FIU
Due to its unique location in South Florida, FIU offers students exposure to diverse ecosystems.  FIU's location provides the only opportunity for research in tropical and subtropical biology in the continental United States.  The breadth of the comparative immunology certificate program is expanded by the Southeastern Environmental Research Center (SERC-based at FIU), Fairchild Tropical Garden (FTG) - located 30 minutes from the main campus), the Biological Resource Division (BRD) of the United States Geological Survey (USGS - bases at FIU), Everglades National Park (ENP - located 45 minutes from campus), the Miami Seaquarium (located 30 minutes fro the main campus), and the Keys Marine Laboratory (KML - located in Long Key).  This network of scientists represents broad research interests that are explored in tropical oceans, wetlands, and terrestrial habitats.