65932 - Environmental Microbiology

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will have the basic knowledge on the structure-function-biosynthesis of the typical components of the bacterial cell. He will be able to understand the relationship between microorganisms and the environment.

Course contents

The course includes theoretical lectures (5 credits) and a laboratory course (1 credit).

During the theoretical part the following topics will be covered:
Structure and functions of the prokaryotic cell
Microbial growth and influence of environmental factors
Microbial metabolism: catabolism and anabolism
Chemiorganotrophy, fermentation, aerobic and anaerobic respiration, chemolithotrophy, phototrophy (anoxygenic and oxygenic photosynthesis)
Principles of prokaryotic molecular biology
Methods for microbial ecology
Principles of bioremediation
Biogeochemical cycles
Microbial interactions: mechanisms of symbiosis

The laboratory exercises will explore some of the topics covered in class and will focus on:
Optical microscopy and staining procedures

Isolation of microorganisms from natural samples and enumeration

Microbial growth and measurement, control of microbial growth

Biochemical tests

Readings/Bibliography

Suggested bibliography:

Brock. Biology of Microorganisms. Ed. Pearson.

Biologia dei Microrganismi a cura di Gianni Dehò ed Enrica Galli. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

Teaching methods

Lectures (in italian) and laboratory practise

 

To take part to laboratory practise, students must attend Module 1 and 2 online [https://www.unibo.it/en/services-and-opportunities/health-and-assistance/health-and-safety/online-course-on-health-and-safety-in-study-and-internship-areas], while Module 3 on health and safety is to be attended in class. Information about Module 3 attendance schedule is available on the website of your degree programme

Assessment methods

Skills will be assessed through a written test. An oral exam is available upon request. 

The exam will focus on the topics discussed in class.

Teaching tools

The teaching material will be available to the students in electronic format.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Office hours

See the website of Carola Eleonora Parolin