MIC2011 - Introduction to microbiology and microbial biotechnology - 2017

The unit deals with the study of micro-organisms: their morphological and physiological characteristics, diversity and relationships and their importance to humans and the environment. Practical applications include, the study of selected micro-organisms in the environment and human body, concepts in microbial biotechnology including fermentation processes, control and use of micro-organisms in the food industry, water quality and bioremediation. The practical program includes microscopy, staining techniques, culturing, appropriate handling procedures and methods of enumeration and identification of micro-organisms. This unit provides a basis for the more advanced microbiology study.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe different micro-organisms and the relationships that exist between them;
2. Describe microbial cell structure, function, nutrition, physiology and growth and how micro-organisms are controlled;
3. Explain microbial DNA replication, gene structure and expression, regulation of gene expression and mechanisms of genetic variation;
4. Explain the role that micro-organisms play in the preservation, fermentation, preparation and spoilage of food;
5. Outline environmental micro-organisms and their importance in the biogeochemical cycles, environmental pollution, water quality and treatment, bioremediation, bioleaching and waste treatment;
6. Demonstrate basic microbiological laboratory skills such as the use of the microscope, microscopic staining and visualisation techniques, 'microbial culture', and be able to identify common species of bacteria and fungi;
7. Demonstrate effective communication of microbial experiments by oral and written means.

Mid-semester test (50 mins): 10%

Examination: Theory Paper I (2 hours): 40% (Hurdle)

Examination: Practical Paper II (2 hours) (15%) and in semester practical assessment (35%): 50% (Hurdle)

This unit is subject to the Hurdle and Threshold Standards policiesHurdle and Threshold Standards policies (http://www.med.monash.edu.au/policies/assessment-policy-2017.html) of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences.

Three 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical/tutorial/self-directed learning exercise per week

See also Unit timetable information

Associate Professor Priscilla Johanesen

Microbiology

12 points of level one Chemistry or one of BIO1022, BMS1021 or BIO1722. Recommended: MCB2011 and MCB2022 (or MOL2011 and MOL2022)

BTH2711, BTH2830