Overview

This module bridges first-year microbiology and virology content to that of the more advanced module on similar topics in Year 3 (Environmental MIcrobiology and Biotechnology). It provides a more detailed knowledge on prokaryotes and viruses and practical workshops for cultivation and molecular analysis of biotech-relevant microbial groups

Topics may include: • History of microbiology • Biochemistry and physiology of prokaryotes • Metabolic diversity of prokaryotes • Taxonomy and systematics of prokaryotes • Genomics of prokaryotes • Evolution of prokaryotes and origin of life • Microbial pathogens • Diversity of viruses

Assessment Strategy

Excellent (Grade A) Work displays comprehensive knowledge and detailed understanding of microbes and viruses, reflecting extensive background study. The work is highly focussed, well structured, logically presented and with defended arguments. The work contains original interpretation and new links between topics are developed. The work is presented to a high standard with accurate communication and no factual or computational errors.

Good (Grade B) Work displays sound knowledge and understanding but with some limitations. There is evidence of background study. The work had a defined and logical structure but with some weaknesses in the way in which arguments are presented. There is some original interpretation and demonstration of links between topics. The work is presented carefully with accurate communication and few factual or computational errors.

Pass (Grade C ) The work demonstrates knowledge of key areas/principles of microbiology and virology, and there is limited evidence of originality or of background study. The work contains some irrelevant material and weaknesses in structure. Arguments may be presented but they lack coherence. The work contains factual/computational errors with little evidence of problem solving. There are minor weaknesses in the standard of the presentation and its accuracy.

Threshold (Grade D) The work only demonstrates knowledge of key areas/principles of microbiology and virology, and there is limited evidence of originality or of background study. Attempts to present arguments only. Answer only poorly focused on question with some irrelevant material and poor structure. The work contains several factual/computational errors. Many weaknesses in presentation and accuracy.

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to accurately characterise bacterial pathogens and viral diversity.

• Critically evaluate scientific literature and prepare a review paper based on one prokaryotic species.

• Demonstrate an accurate understanding of main biosynthetic prokaryotic pathways, catabolic and anabolic processes, basics of microbial growth, diversity of metabolic routes, modern taxonomy and systematics of prokaryotes, main features and phylogeny of archaea, basic principles of prokaryotic genomics.

• Work effectively both as a member of a group and individually to complete the student-led group activity (Practical report and fieldwork).