Microbiology

Recommended Prerequisites

Basic Knowledge of Biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, metabolism and ecology.

Teaching Methods

Lectures, with all students, are based on presentations with simple texts and diagrams, graphs, etc.., with the media support.

Practical classes, in the laboratory with small groups of students.

Brainstorming sessions, with small groups of students, about selected themes.

Presentation and discussion of suggested topics investigated by the students.

Learning Outcomes

This course aims to provide essential knowledge and basic skills in Microbiology. We also aim to help students in the development of their individual and transversal competences. Key issues relatted with cellular and metabolic diversity, influence and functional role of the microrganism in the environmental, growth and controle of microbial populations are adressed. Moreover, students learn basic methods and develop skills generally used to study microrganism with special emphasis to some used in quality environment monitoring.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

The lineages Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya. The virus. Cellular biology of microorganisms. Nutrition and metabolism, nutritional categories and basic bioenergetics. Microbial growth; measuring growth, mathematics of exponential growth, continuous cultures. Environmental factors affecting growth and growth control. Metabolic diversity: fermentative processes, respirations, photosynthesis and chemolithotrophy. Carbon and nitrogen fixation. Biogeochemical cycles. Extreme environments. Genetic organization and expression in bacteria, the operon concept. General properties of viruses.

Methods to study microbes from the environment: classic and molecular methods. Bioinformatics and web database resources. Microbial quality control: concept of indicator microorganisms, methods for detection and enumeration. Water and food quality; laws and regulations.

Head Lecturer(s)

António Manuel Veríssimo Pires

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Laboratory work or Field work: 10.0%
Research work: 15.0%
Exam: 75.0%

Bibliography

- Prescott, L., Harley, J. e Klein, D. Microbiogy. McG-Hill Pub.

- Madigan, M., Martinko, J., Parker, J. Brock Biology of Microorganisms. Prentice Hall International, Inc.