BIOL 322 - Diversity and Evolution of Microbial Life

3 units (fi 6)(FIRST, 3-0-0)

The diversity of microscopic life forms, both prokaryotic (bacteria and archaea) and eukaryotic (protists, fungi, phytoplankton), will be explored. The evolutionary forces responsible for this diversity will be described in detail and contrasted to those at work in macroscopic eukaryotes. Students will learn about the molecular methods used to identify and classify both culturable and non-culturable microbes, and genetically characterize entire populations. Prerequisites: BIOL 107 and 108 or SCI 100, and a 200-level Biological Sciences course. MICRB 265 recommended.

MICRB 311 - Microbial Physiology

3 units (fi 6)(FIRST, 3-0-0)

The structure, growth, and metabolic pathways used by bacteria, archaea, and unicellular eukaryotes. Emphasis is placed on the comparative biochemical aspects of microbial life. Prerequisites: MICRB 265 and BIOCH 200 or 205. Credit cannot be obtained for both MICRB 311 and 511.

MICRB 315 - Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

3 units (fi 6)(FIRST, 3-0-0)

Microbial production of commercially important metabolites, drugs, food grade enzymes and platform chemicals; use and modification of microbes for industrial-scale processes including biofuel production; bioprospecting for novel activities; strain improvement and synthetic biology; fundamentals of fermenter operation. Prerequisite: MICRB 265.

MICRB 511 - Advanced Microbial Physiology

3 units (fi 6)(FIRST, 3-0-0)

The structure, growth, and metabolic pathways used by bacteria, archaea, and unicellular eukaryotes. Lectures are the same as MICRB 311, but with additional assignments and evaluation appropriate to graduate studies. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. Credit cannot be obtained for both MICRB 311 and 511.