BIOMI 2790 - Microbial Life and Processes that Rule Our Dynamic Planet

(PBS-AS)

Spring. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: BIOG 1500, or BIOEE 1780, or BIOEE 1610, or permission of the instructor.

I. Hewson, E. Madsen.

This course is aimed at students in non-Biology majors. It will introduce students to key concepts in environmental microbiology including: 1) Diversity of Bacteria, Archaea, eukaryotic microorganisms, and viruses in environmental settings; 2) Microbial biogeochemistry – the organisms and genes that drive chemical reactions underlying nutrient cycles across biomes; 3) Roles of diseases and epidemiology in ecosystems; and 4) Ecosystem services performed by microorganisms. Course material will also address microbial roles in ecosystem sustainability–including the use of microorganisms in bioremediation of wastewaters and contaminated sites, roles of microorganisms in climate change, and the ecology of eutrophication of freshwater and marine ecosystems. Students will learn foundational facts and principles through lectures, accessing the primary literature on environmental microbiology, written assignments, and classroom exercises.

Outcome 1: Students will demonstrate critical evaluation skills needed to understand principles and practices of environmental microbiology.

Outcome 2: Students will be able to identify key microbial nutrient cycles and ecosystem services performed by microorganisms.

Outcome 3: Students will understand the role of microbial diseases in ecosystem structure and function.

Outcome 4: Students will understand the diversity of microorganisms, from viruses to eukaryotic microorganisms, in terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems.

Outcome 5: Students will understand the roles of microorganisms in ecosystem sustainability, and how microorganisms may be harnessed to ameliorate anthropogenic problems.