General provisions

The course is part of the Master's Programme in Infection Biology.

Entry requirements

One year of studies at the Infection Biology Master programme or correlative. English proficiency, normally attested by means of an internationally recognised test such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the course the student should be able to

• account for the occurrence and ecology of pathogenic microorganisms in different ecosystems (e. g. air, soil, water)

• explain key ecological theories and models based on microbial pathogens and infectious processes

• describe the physiological and ecological adaptations of different microbes for survival and growth in various types of natural and engineered ecosystems

• discuss and evaluate risks and conditions that affect pathogenic microorganisms proliferation, survival and propagation of the natural and built environments.

• account for important plant pathogens and their biology

• give an overview of the human microflora, its species composition, function and relevance for health.

• apply and critically evaluate experimental techniques to study and characterise pathogenic microorganisms

• interpret, critically evaluate, synthesise, and communicate scientific data

Content

The course is part of the third semester (of four) in the Master's program in infection biology. Based on previously acquired, molecular and biomedical knowledge in infection biology it will provide a deeper understanding of microbial ecology and laboratory methods used in infection biology. Both theoretical concepts and models in ecology and applications in plant pathology, water contamination, probiotics and the human microflora will be discussed in the course. The course provides a basic introduction to microbial diversity and existence of pathogens in different ecosystems, and addresses the microbial adaptations for proliferation, survival and growth in different environmental conditions. During the course, students will work practically with a number of microbiological methods used in microbiology and infection biology.

Instruction

The teaching is based on laboratory research projects, which are carried out in small groups of students using a problem-based teaching model. Complementing this, the course contains lectures by specialists, compulsory laboratory sessions, seminars and study visits.

Assessment

The examination consists of three parts:

(1) a theoretical exam (5 credits) dealing with microbial ecology and diversity including plant pathology, probiotics, water contamination and human microflora.

(2) Participation in mandatory laboratory tasks, seminars and study visits (5 credits).

(3) Report of a laboratory research project (5 credits)

To pass the course, all assignments and exams must be completed and approved. The final grade for the course is based on a weighted rating of all obtained grades.

Missed mandatory assignment may be complemented during the next scheduled course occasion and only if there are available slots.