BIOL 58301 - Environmental And Agricultural Microbiology

Introduction to the ecosystem-wide impacts of microorganisms in the various habitats on earth and their effects on agriculture. Students will learn and evaluate various methods of sample collection and detection, understand biogeochemical cycling, remediation of pollutants by microorganisms and be able to elaborate on microbial interactions in natural ecosystems. Students will gain and apply knowledge on bioinformatic, genomic, proteomic and metabolomic approaches to the study of environmental microorganisms. The optional laboratory section will enable students to apply techniques for isolating and growing soil and aquatic microorganisms.

Preparation for Course
P: BIOL 21900; Minimum Grade Of C Or Better.

Cr. 3.
Student Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the microorganisms that inhabit the soil, water, air and extreme environments of the earth and their interactions.
2. Explain the techniques used to analyze microorganisms from various environmental locations.
3. Distinguish between the different molecular biological approaches used to study environmental microorganisms.
4. Differentiate the selective advantages of microscopic, culture-based and physiological methods used to study microbes from environmental samples.
5. Evaluate the roles microbes play in wastewater treatment, disinfection and recycling and in remediation of organic and metal pollutants in soil and water.
6. Assess the impact of microbiota found in the root zones of agricultural crop plants and forest environments.
7. Critique scientific literature on the interactions of microbiota in the soil with plants.