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.
Course description for study year 2022-2023
Course code
MLJ520
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
5
Semester tution start
Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Autumn
Language of instruction
English
Content
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.
Learning outcome
Required prerequisite knowledge
Recommended prerequisites
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exam | 1/1 | 3 Hours | Letter grades | English-Native language dictionary, Valid calculator, |
The course has a final skole exam that is worth 100 % of the grade. In addition there are two obligatory activities; a lab with a report and an course assignment. Students must complete all obligatory activiaties before they will be allowed to write the exam. Lab assignments shall be completed at the times and in the groups that are assigned and published on Canvas. Absence due to illness or for other reasons must be communicated to the laboratory personnel as soon as possible. One cannot expect that provisions for completion of the lab assignments at other times can be made, unless prior arrangements with the laboratory personnel have been agreed.
Coursework requirements
Students are required to attend a laboratory section of this course relating to methods used in environmental microbiology and complete the obligatory microbe project.
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 course examinations. 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.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Krista Michelle KasterCoordinator laboratory exercises:
Hong LinHead of Department:
Ingunn Westvik JolmaMethod of work
4 hours lectures per week. 1 week of lab.
The course is based primarily on a series of lectures.
Overlapping courses
| Course | Reduction (SP) |
|---|---|
| Environmental Microbiology (MET160_1) | 5 |
| Environmental Microbiology (MLJ522_1) | 10 |