SDG Detail

BIOSCI 347 : Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology

Undergraduate course

Project description

This course explores key themes in environmental microbiology, from developing a fundamental understanding of microorganisms in the environment through to exploiting their activities for human gain (i.e. environmental biotechnology). In many cases this involves microbes that are resistant to �classic� cultivation on a simple agar plate, so there is a major emphasis within the course on cutting-edge methods to better understand these enigmatic organisms. The course is well-suited to any student with an interest in microbiology, but should also appeal to those with an ecological background. With a mix of theoretical and applied aspects of microbial ecology, and a weekend-long laboratory component designed to emulate �real-life research�, the course could serve as an entry point into further (postgraduate) study or jobs in diverse fields including biosecurity, biotechnology, ecosystem monitoring and medical microbiology. A remote version of the course will be provided to those students located overseas.

Year 2022

Location New Zealand

Organization University of Auckland

Project aims

Project outcome

By the end of this course, students will be able to: Explain the importance of microorganisms within natural and engineered environments. (Capability 1 and 6) Describe the strengths and limitations of contemporary techniques within microbial ecology, and when to use each approach. (Capability 1 and 3) Describe the various ways, both positive and negative, in which microorganisms interact with each other, as well as with plant and animal (including human) �hosts�. (Capability 1) Explain using specific examples, how microbial metabolisms can be exploited for environmental biotechnology purposes. (Capability 1) Apply basic culturing and molecular biology techniques in the study of environmental microorganisms. (Capability 1, 4 and 5) Critically evaluate and summarise the published literature relating to environmental microbiology and biotechnology. (Capability 2 and 4)