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You will explore current issues featuring in media headlines with analyses of a select choice of viruses, fungi and protozoa of medical, environmental and industrial significance. You will gain insight of how the diversity of microorganisms can be exploited in biotechnology both to the benefit and detriment of mankind. You will also explore some of the controversial issues in biotechnology, especially the construction of GMOs and the significance of the release of GMOs into the environment.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to
LO1: explore the commercial exploitation of microbial metabolism by food and pharmaceutical industries, environmental, agricultural and chemical sectors
LO2: gain an overview of gene cloning, together with the construction and exploitation of genetically-modified organisms (GMOs).
LO3: examine specific fungi, bacteria, viruses and protozoa of medical, industrial and environmental relevance
LO4: consider microbiology and biotechnology topics of particular relevance in current affairs.