Environmental Microbiology (MLJ520)

The main objectives are to introduce the general biology of microorganisms and general concept of microbial ecology. Furthermore, important microbial processes in natural and technical systems are studied.

The course consists of the following modules:

Unit 1. Cellular Biology:

What is microbiology, Biomolecules, Cell structure and function, Metabolism, Cellular growth, Bacterial Genetics

Unit 2. Microbial Diversity

Evolution and systematics, The Bacteria, The Archaea, Microbial eucaryotes

Unit 3. Metabolic Diversity

Phototrophy, Autotrophy, Chemolitotrophy, Heterotrophy, Fermentation, Anaerobic respiration, Aerobic Chemoorganoheterotrophs.

Unit 4. Microbial Ecology

Ecological concepts, Interactions, Soil habitats, Aquatic habitats, Biofilms, Nutrient cycles.

Unit 5. Environmetal Microbiology

Wastewater microbiology, Drinking water microbiology, Biodegradation and Bioremediation.

Knowledge

This course aims to introduce students to the fundamentals of environmental microbiology using a theoretical analysis and some practical work via a laboratory experiment. During the course the students will gain theoretical knowledge on

• How bacteria obtain energy through different metabolic strategies
• Introduce student to the basics of microbial molecular biology
• learn the basic terminology and concepts of microbial ecology
• Introduce students to waterborne pathogens and water treatment

Skills

• utilize sterile technique for the growth of microorganisms
• grow and handle microorganisms in the lab
• present and analysis laboratory result in a written format
• learn how to present information orally in an effective way in front of their peers

General competence

The student should understand the basic concepts learning in environmental microbiology an apply appropriate terminology and apply their knowledge to discuss and describe environmental microbiology issues.

There are 2 mandatory assignments that must be approved:

A group laboratory report and

An individual presentation on a topic in microbiology

No re-sit opportunities are offered for laboratory exercises, laboratory reports or oral presentations. Students who fail can complete the obligatory tasks will have to complete them the next time the course is offered in the regular teaching semester.

Students are required to attend a laboratory section of this course relating to methods used in environmental microbiology.

Mandatory lab assignments shall be completed at the times and in the groups that are assigned and published on Canvas. Valid absence due to illness or for other reasons must be communicated to the laboratory personnel as soon as possible. In cases of valid absence, it may be possible to complete the lab assignments at other times, where agreed with the teaching staff. This is not an entitlement.

Labs must be approved in order to access the exam. No resit is offered for the laboratory section. If a student wishes to redo the lab, this can be done next time the subject is taught.

4 hours lectures per week. 1 week of lab.

The course is based primarily on a series of lectures.