Microorganisms are all around us and an integral part of us. Without them we could not exist. You will explore the diversity, function and utility of micro-organisms around planet Earth - and beyond! From their role in (bio)geochemical cycles (i.e. in the environment) to deployment in biotechnology (i.e. in commerce), the microbial world will come under the spotlight for their place in our ecosystem and the properties that allow them to operate in different contexts. You will study the origin of microorganisms and the methods - classical and modern - used in their classification, cultivation and manipulation. Modern molecular tools offer significant benefits in microbiology, and you will learn their background and rationale for their use. At the end of this module, you will have developed new insights into the essential role that microorganisms play in the world and the potential for harnessing and controlling them.
Lecture 22 hours, Workshop 2 hours, Practical 12 hours
1,000 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Pre-lab Planning & Comprehension worth 30%.
1,5000 words Short Writing piece . Assessment Details: Lab Report worth 70%.
Reassessment Method: Like- for like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. Justify the rationale for the classification of microorganisms
2. Investigate the diversity of microorganisms and their role in life sustaining processes.
3. Analyse and interpret experimental datasets and findings that arise in modern microbiology
4. Explain microbial diversity to a range of audiences using the language and lexicon of modern microbial biosciences.
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