Immunologists are scientists or clinicians who specialise in the field of Immunology. Immunology is a very broad branch of the biological sciences and is defined as the study of an organism's defence (immune) system, in both health and disease. All multicellular organisms are prey to infection or invasion. Harmful organisms such as viruses, bacteria and parasites constantly seek to gain access into the body, and if successful, this can lead to a number of serious diseases.

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The complexity of immune systems generally mirrors evolutionary history; with more 'primitive' organisms possessing immune systems composed of discrete, general purpose, effector cells and molecules; whilst more 'advanced' organisms have developed organs and tissues with a specific immune purpose, whilst retaining the cellular component. A key part of Immunology involves studying how the many different organs, cells and molecules of the immune system work and interact with each other.

In broad terms, the earlier form of the immune system is known as the 'innate' immune system, and is found in a wide range of organisms (including invertebrates and primitive vertebrates); whilst the later form is known as the 'adaptive' immune system and is common to higher vertebrates (including humans). The two systems are largely integrated in these organisms.

Specifically:

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Immunologists work in many different areas of biomedical research, as well as in healthcare, agriculture and environmental monitoring. Because Immunology can be applied to several other scientific disciplines it impacts on many areas of conventional medicine.

Immunologists often have different job titles and their role often depends on type of organisation they work for:

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Many diseases are caused when the immune system behaves incorrectly. Immunologists try to understand how and why the immune system malfunctions and causes disease. Such diseases can be broadly classified into the following categories:

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Immunological research has helped scientists understand the potential causes of many immunological diseases, and enabled them to develop treatments and cures.

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Immunologists from developed nations are working together with countries in the developing world to help prevent and treat the major problems associated with global health/disease. These include vaccine preventable diseases, emerging infectious diseases, HIV/AIDS, malaria, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, cancer and other neglected infectious diseases.

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British Society for Immunology