Microbiology

Catalog description

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of microbiology that integrates fundamental concepts with applied techniques and environmental contexts. The curriculum is designed to introduce students to the vast diversity of microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, their metabolism, and their pivotal roles in natural ecosystems, human health, and engineering and industrial applications. Building on this, students will explore microbial interactions, including symbiosis with other microbes, plants, animals, and humans, and the crucial roles of microbes in nutrient cycling, biodegradation, and bioremediation. The course also introduces students to applied microbiology, through topics like biotechnology, industrial applications and the development of antimicrobial resistance, and environmental microbiology, through topics like biogeochemical cycles. Laboratory sessions will provide hands-on experience in culturing, identifying and classifying microorganisms through a variety of techniques as well as basic bioinformatics for examining microbial diversity and function among other topics.