What is an immunologist?

An immunologist is an expert in immunology, which is a branch of biomedical science that deals with the immune system. An immunologist may be involved with the immune system of humans or other vertebrates and may be concerned with the immune system in healthy or diseased states.

The immune system and natural immunity

Some disorders an immunologist may treat include autoimmune diseases, hypersensitivities, immune deficiencies and transplant rejections. Immunologists study and treat the physical, chemical and physiological characteristics of the individual components of the immune system in vitro, in situ and in vivo. The immune system protects living organisms from infection. Diseases that affect natural immunity such as allergies, sinus inflations, pneumonia and abscesses are the particular concerns of an immunologist.

Immunologists seek treatments for persistent illnesses

The field is composed of physicians, research scientists who work in a laboratory environment and physician-scientists who conduct research and care for patients. Immunologists who work in the research arena seek treatments for persistent illnesses and may work with cells or genes. A strong understanding of biology, chemistry and mathematics is necessary to be an immunologist. A PhD or MD is required, and the requirements for certification to the American Board of Allergy and Immunology include several years of post-graduate training and the passage of an exam. Many immunologists also teach at the university or graduate level. They may work in children’s hospitals, community hospitals, private practices or university medical centers.

Additional information about immunologists may be found at these websites:

http://aaaai.execinc.com/

http://www.aai.org/

http://www.immunologist.com/

http://www.clinimmsoc.org/