Overview

Microbes are fundamental for both our survival and planetary health. In this unit you will gain a strong foundation in microbiology and microbial genetics, and relate this to the numerous ways in which microbes affect us and our planet. You will learn how microbiology can help solve some of the … For more content click the Read More button below.

Offerings

S1-01-CLAYTON-ON-CAMPUS

Rules

Enrolment Rule

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Dr Francesca Short

Unit Coordinator(s)

Dr Francesca Short
Ms Brianna Steed

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1.

Describe the structure, function, physiology, growth and interactions of the major groups of microbes;

2.

Explain and apply the principles of microbial genetics, regulation and mechanisms of genetic variation;

3.

Explain why microorganisms underlie ecosystem formation, biogeochemical cycling and the health of plants and animals;

4.

Propose and evaluate how microbiology can be used to address global challenges in food production, climate mitigation and adaptation, pollutant remediation, human health, and clean manufacturing;

5.

Apply PC2 compliance and professional behaviours, and demonstrate key microbiological laboratory skills such as isolation and aseptic culture of microbes, microscopy, and identification of common microbes;

6.

Demonstrate effective team collaboration skills and written and oral communication of microbial concepts and experiments.

Teaching approach

Active learning

Assessment summary

A threshold hurdle applies across the combined total of the Theme tests and the Examination.  You must achieve at least 45% of the marks available to meet the hurdle requirement.

Assessment

1 - In semester assessment
2 - Theme test
3 - Final assessment - Exam (1 hours and 40 minutes)

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Laboratories
Lectures
Workshops

Workload requirements

Workload

Learning resources

Required resources
Technology resources

Availability in areas of study

Microbiology