Course overview
This course is an introduction to microbiology that provides a strong grounding in fundamental aspects of the basic biology of bacteria as well as a strong grounding in molecular biology and microbial genetics. Emphasis is placed on the study of infectious diseases of humans, other animals and plants. Topics covered include: introduction to microorganisms and their environment, microbial structure and function; microbial molecular biology and genetics; bacterial viruses; structure; an introduction to pathogen-host interactions; new and emerging pathogens of humans and other animals; infectious disease and mechanisms by which microbial pathogens interact with animals and plants; biotechnological applications of bacteria. PRACTICAL COMPONENT worth 20% of the grade: Students enrolled in this course will need to also enrol in a separate course which is the practical component (one of SCIENCE 2100 or SCIENCE 2101 or SCIENCE 2102). To determine which practical to enrol into you are required to read the companion document.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify bacterial cell structures and describe their function in growth and/or survival
- List factors affecting bacterial growth and describe how they are used diagnostically
- Identify elements of a bacterial gene and describe effects of point mutations on gene expression
- Summarise mechanisms of bacterial DNA exchange, including the nature and role of bacteriophage
- Describe the nature and role of virulence factors involved in host-pathogen interactions and disease
- An appreciation of the practice of microbiology