MIC2011 · Microbiology foundations and global applications

Overview

Microbes are fundamental for both our survival and planetary health. In this unit you will gain a strong foundation in microbiology and microbial genetics, and relate this to the numerous ways in which microbes affect us and our planet. You will learn how microbiology can help solve some of the key global challenges of our time across the areas of health, environment, climate change, food production and biotechnology. You will gain work ready skills and learn how to operate safely in a specialised biosafety level 2 (PC2) laboratory. Core laboratory skills essential for practicing microbiologists will be developed and applied to real-world scenarios, including aseptic technique, safe handling of microbes, microbial detection and identification, staining and microscopy. This unit provides an excellent introduction to the field for all those interested in how microbes impact our lives and seeking to apply microbiology to safeguard our future.

Areas of study: Microbiology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

A threshold hurdle applies across the combined total of the Theme tests and the Examination. You must achieve at least 45% of the marks available to meet the hurdle requirement.

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

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the structure, function, physiology, growth and interactions of the major groups of microbes;
2. Explain and apply the principles of microbial genetics, regulation and mechanisms of genetic variation;
3. Explain why microorganisms underlie ecosystem formation, biogeochemical cycling and the health of plants and animals;
4. Propose and evaluate how microbiology can be used to address global challenges in food production, climate mitigation and adaptation, pollutant remediation, human health, and clean manufacturing;
5. Apply PC2 compliance and professional behaviours, and demonstrate key microbiological laboratory skills such as isolation and aseptic culture of microbes, microscopy, and identification of common microbes;
6. Demonstrate effective team collaboration skills and written and oral communication of microbial concepts and experiments.

Workload

A total of 12 hours per week including 6 hours of directed learning (such as lectures, laboratories and workshops) and 6 hours of private study.

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