wwwdev@monash.edu.au
Wed Oct 28 14:26:02 EST 1998
Auth: C Whip, University Webmaster's Office
Copyright © Monash University 1998 - All Rights Reserved - Caution
Microbiology is at the forefront of the exciting new developments of modern biology. It involves the study of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses. A knowledge of microbiology will provide students with an understanding of:
Recent
developments such as mad-cow disease, HIV infection and the rise of antibiotic
resistance emphasise the importance of infectious diseases for human health.
Microbiology is concerned with the study of these emerging diseases and
microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses, their structure
and way of life, how they interact with people and other living organisms in
both harmful and beneficial ways and how they can be exploited to our
advantage. All these aspects are featured in subjects commencing in second year
which progress in third year to the molecular biology of microorganisms and
some applications of microbiology, such as biotechnology and medical
microbiology. In the current era of recombinant DNA technology and genetic
engineering, plasmids and viruses provide the essential vehicles for genetic
manipulation and expression in recipient cells. Practical classes are designed
to provide laboratory skills in safe handling of microorganisms, experimental
procedures illustrating their properties and functions, laboratory diagnosis,
and genetic manipulation and expression. There is a strong emphasis on training
in the techniques of recombinant DNA technology.
The point value of each semester subject is eight points in second year and
twelve points in third year. Useful companion subjects are biochemistry,
genetics, chemistry, botany, physiology, anatomy and (available third year
only) immunology or pharmacology.
Students may take an honours BSc degree in microbiology in a fourth year of
study which combines the study of advanced topics and a defined research
project that continues throughout the year. Studies for graduates are available
leading to a Graduate Diploma in Microbiology. The department has excellent
facilities for graduate studies.
The chief examiners are Dr Harley Dean (second year), Dr Shiela Unkles (third
year), and Associate Professor Peter Wright (fourth year).
wwwdev@monash.edu.au
Wed Oct 28 14:26:02 EST 1998