Entry requirements

120 credits including alternative 1) 60 credits biology and 30 credits chemistry or 30 credits earth sciences; alternative 2) 90 credits biology.

Learning outcomes

The overall aims with the course are to provide a deeper knowledge of the genetic and functional diversity of microorganisms in different ecosystems, and a basic understanding of the methods that are used in the area. After the course the student should be able to :

• describe common groups of bacteria and archaea in different ecosystems, and their role in biogeochemical key processes in these environments.
• describe for cultivation-independent methods for studies of the composition of microbial communities and for the function and occurrence of individual groups.
• describe genomic-based methods to study microbial diversity in nature and for the mechanisms behind it.
• describe important interactions within microbial communities and between microorganisms and plants and animals.
• evaluate, synthesise and present scientific studies of genetic and functional microbial diversity in different ecosystems.
• use bioinformatic tools and databases that are used to study microbial diversity.

Content

Microbial diversity in aquatic and terrestrial systems, and in different types of extreme environments and other model systems. The emphasis lies both on the molecular methods that are used within the field and on the importance of diversity for the function of microbial communities in different ecosystems, and on the mechanisms that create and regulate diversity within microbial communities. The latest techniques and the findings within the metagenomics, i.e. direct DNA-sequencing of whole microbial communities from different ecosystems, are discussed thoroughly. Under the later part of the course, the students carry out a literature compilation within a subject area that is decided in consultations with the course leader. This literature survey is presented both in writing and orally in seminar form.

Instruction

The teaching consists of lectures and laboratory sessions.

Assessment

Passing grade requires passed grade on written examination (3 credits), passed practice work and passed accepted in-depth assignment (2 credits).