Appropriate background knowledge of biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, microbial physiology.

This module builds on fundamental microbiological principles to examine the roles and interactions of microorganisms in various natural and engineered environments. The module will focus on several key areas including: the roles and importance of microbial communities in a range of autochthonous environments; metabolic and structural adaptations to niche habitats; approaches to assessing microbial community structure; and the potential application of microorganisms in environmental quality assessment and various industries.

This module will demonstrate the importance of microorganisms in diverse ecosystems; their versatility and ability to thrive in almost every environmental condition and highlight ways in which microorganisms contribute to our daily lives through application in industrial bioprocesses; environmental remediation and microbiological quality assessment. Theoretical and practical knowledge of microbiological and molecular methods to assess microbial populations will enhance your appreciation of the complexities and challenges associated with the study of microorganisms in various settings.

These themes will be explored in lectures, tutorials and workshops and through practical activities that will develop your competency in microbiological laboratory techniques as well as research methods including experimental design; problem solving and interpretation and critical appraisal of data.

LO1: Evaluate the roles and interactions of microorganisms in various natural and engineered environments.
LO2: Illustrate metabolic and structural adaptations required to survive in niche habitats and how changes in environmental conditions affect overall structure and function of microbial communities.
LO3: Relate microbial adaptation to potential industrial and environmental applications.
LO4: Design and conduct a practical based assessment of environmental quality and apply problem solving approaches to the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
LO5: Critically examine current microbial and molecular approaches to the study of microorganisms in the environment and their application in environmental assessment.