BTH3260 · Microbiome science

Overview

This unit offers a comprehensive introduction to the rapidly evolving field of studying microbial communities and their collective genomes across diverse environments. This third-year unit explores the fundamental ecological principles governing microbiomes and their crucial roles in human, animal, and environmental health. You will investigate the link between the microbiome and various health and disease states, particularly focusing on host-microbe interactions. A key focus is integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The unit combines essential wet-laboratory techniques for sample processing and sequencing preparation with an intensive block of bioinformatics training, covering command-line tools, 16S rRNA data analysis, statistical interpretation, data visualisation, functional prediction, and an introduction to metagenomics. Emphasis is placed on developing critical evaluation skills through literature analysis and effective communication of complex scientific concepts. This unit will equip you with foundational knowledge and the integrated skillset required for further study or careers in biotechnology, biomedical research, and related fields requiring microbiome expertise.

Areas of study: Biotechnology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Explain by defining fundamental terms like microbiota, diversity and dysbiosis, and describe the ecological principles such as resource utilization, interspecies interactions, and community dynamics like succession and stability that shape microbial communities.;
2. Describe the established and emerging functions of the microbiome in various contexts, including human health, animal health, and environmental processes;
3. Describe the established and emerging functions of the microbiome in various contexts, including human health, animal health, and environmental processes;
4. Demonstrate the ability to use basic bioinformatic tools and analytical methods to process, analyse, and interpret microbiome datasets, including assessing microbial diversity and taxonomic composition;
5. Critically evaluate and synthesise information from primary scientific literature and other sources regarding microbiome research and applications, and effectively communicate complex scientific concepts related to the field of microbiome science.

Workload

• One 1-hour pre-recorded lectures; • One 2-hour workshop; • One 3-hour lab class for 10 weeks and • Six to seven hours of independent study per week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.