BIO130 General Microbiology I

The lectures cover the following topics:

• The microorganisms and you.
• The prokaryote and eukaryote cell types.
• Microbial metabolism.
• Growth of microorganisms.
• Control of microbial growth.
• Microscopy (theory/practice )
• Simple classification of viruses, bacteria and fungi.
• Antibiotics.
• The role of microorganisms in nature.

The laboratory course gives a thorough introduction in microbiological techniques. The use of light and phase contrast microscopy. Training in the use of aseptic work technique. Studies of the growth conditions of micro-organisms and how to prevent growth of undesired micro-organisms. Through the exercises, students will learn to interpret experimental data. Laboratory journals in selected exercises must be submitted within the stated deadline for mandatory grading. The course provides an understanding of microbiology to better understand the basic principles of sustainability and climate as defined in the UN Sustainability Development Goals. In particular, that applies to the goals 3, 6, 8, 13, 14, 15.

Knowledge:

• The student can give an overview of various microorganisms and their role in nature.
• The student is familiar with basic microbiological terminology
• The student can give an overview of what characterizes the prokaryotic cell type
• The student can give an overview of what affects growth of microorganisms
• The student understand the mechanisms of action of antibiotics and the processes leading to antibiotic resistance.
• The student is familiar with the structural components and distinguishing features of viruses.
• The student has practical knowledge of the growth conditions of micro-organisms and how to prevent the growth of undesired micro-organisms.
• The student can interpret data generated in the laboratory exercises

Skills:

• Can make use of aseptic techniques
• Can use light and phase contrast microscopy in the study of different microorganisms
• Be able to set up simple experiments for testing a hypothesis.
• Can make interpretation of experimental data obtained during laboratory exercises
• Hand in laboratory journal for selected exercises within the deadline
• The student is able to individually perform the preparations, techniques and analyses employed in the course
• The student masters the instruments and equipment used in the course

General competence:

The course provides basic competence in theoretical and practical microbiology and a basis for further studies in biology, microbiology, biotechnology and food science.