Environmental Microbiology

Recommended Prerequisites

No specific requirements beyond the general requirements for admission to the course.

Teaching Methods

The classes of this course will take place during the semester. PowerPoint presentations will be held in lectures encouraging discussion of different topics. In the theoretical-practical classes will be discussed case studies. The presentation of one of the works performed is a form of integration and systematization of the acquired knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

Integrate basic knowledge of microbiology and biochemistry by introducing students to the diversity of microbial populations and their important roles in environmental processes in air, water, soil and sediment. Discussing and understanding microbial activities underpin natural ecosystems and contribute to environmental quality. Discuss and understand the role of microorganisms in bioremediation processes of contaminated environments and in wastewater treatment processes. Discuss and understand microbiomes in managed and artificial environments and their impact on health. In TP classes will be discussed the techniques to characterize microorganisms and investigate microbial processes. 

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Advanced aspects of microbial diversity, ecology and growth

2. Microorganisms as environmental determinants

3. Interactions within and between populations, interactions with plants and animals, community structure and dynamics, abiotic factors.

4. Microorganisms in global change

4.1. Water microbiology

Wastewater treatment. Public health and water quality.

4.2. Microbiomes of managed and artificial environments and their impact on health.

Catabolism of organic pollutants.

Microbiology of metals. The relative toxicity of metals. The indispensability of metals. Molecular mechanisms of toxicity. Resistance mechanisms. Microbiology of copper, mercury and arsenic. Toxicity and resistance mechanisms.

4.3. Bioremediation and sustainability

Major ecological disasters. Microorganisms as depolluting agents. Degrading microorganisms and their potential for environmental recovery.

5. Environmental microbiology applications.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Research work: 20.0%
Exam: 40.0%
Synthesis work: 40.0%

Bibliography

Manual of environmental microbiology. CJ Hurst, RL Crawford, JL Garland, DA Lipson - 2007 - NW Washington, DC 200362904

Environmental microbiology IL Pepper, CP Gerba, TJ Gentry, RM Maier - 2011. Elsevier