91314 General Microbiology
6cp; Forms of attendance in this subject have changed to enable social distancing and reduce the risks of spreading COVID-19 in our community. There may also have been changes to the assessment requirements. Consequently, the Subject Outline information for this subject has changed. Details of the changes may be published in an Addendum to the Subject Outline which is available through your LMS (Blackboard or Canvas).Requisite(s): 91161 Cell Biology and Genetics
These requisites may not apply to students in certain courses. See access conditions.
Description
Microbes are small but they have important relationships with the human world. Although some are involved in food spoilage and a minority are capable of causing disease in humans, animals and plants, many have numerous beneficial effects including maintaining health in our guts (i.e. the microbiome) and maintaining balance in the environment by recycling chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen. Additionally, microbes have a number of important industrial applications in food and chemical production, bioremediation and sewage treatment. When considering their diverse roles, microbes are an exciting and important group of organisms to learn about.
This subject provides an introduction to the structure, function and taxonomy of the microbial world including bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses. Several key topics in the study of microbiology are discussed including microscopy, sterilisation, disinfection, microbial nutrition, microbial growth, bacterial identification schemes, as well as antibiotic and anti-microbial agents and contemporary techniques in molecular microbiology. Basic mycology, parasitology, and virology are covered, with an emphasis on transmission control of these organisms. The practical exercises give students experience in the principal laboratory procedures for the isolation, manipulation, growth and identification of microorganisms.
Typical availability
Autumn session, City campus
Footnote(s)
This subject was formerly called Microbiology 1.
Detailed subject description.
Fee information
Information to assist with determining the applicable fee type can be found at Understanding fees.
- Commonwealth-supported students: view subject fees at Fees Search: Commonwealth-supported
- Postgraduate domestic fee-paying students: fees are charged according to the course enrolled in; refer to Domestic Fees Search: Postgraduate and Research
- International students: fees are charged according to the course enrolled in; refer to International Fees Search
- Subject EFTSL: 0.125