Mary M. Petzke

Mary M. Petzke, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the New York Medical College (NYMC) School of Medicine. She serves as Assistant Dean for Medical Student Research, founding director of the Summer Trainees in Academic Research (STAR) Program, and assistant course director for medical microbiology. Her roles focus on fostering research opportunities for medical students, enhancing mentorship programs, and integrating research into the curriculum. Under her leadership, the Medical Student Research Forum submissions surged by 128% between 2015 and 2019, with NYMC faculty mentorship increasing to 61% of submissions.

Her research investigates the immunopathogenesis of bacterial infections, particularly Lyme disease, focusing on immune evasion mechanisms. She advises the Biomedical Research Area of Concentration and oversees the Medical Student Research Seminars. Colleagues praise her as a 'seasoned educator and mentor' who has significantly strengthened NYMC’s research infrastructure.