School Of Science And HealthMicrobiology 2Western Sydney University Unit Code: 300321.2
Discipline: MICROBIOLOGY
Student Contribution Band: 2
Level: 2
Credit Points: 10
Assumed Knowledge
For safety reasons it is essential that students understand and are competent in the practice of aseptic technique in basic microbiological techniques. These skills are developed in Microbiology 1 and General Microbiology. These units, together with Biochemistry 1, also provide the foundation knowledge necessary for studying the metabolic diversity of microorganisms, molecular systematics and microbial genetics, the major themes of Microbiology 2. Relevant topics in Biochemistry 1 or General Biochemistry include structure and function of enzymes, protein synthesis, structure and function of nucleic acids. The introductory microbiology units provide essential knowledge of the major groups of microorganisms and the conditions required for their growth and survival.
Equivalent Units
14443 - Microbiology 2, J2028 - Microbial Physiology and Genetics, MI202A - Microbiology 2.2
Corequisite
300219 Biochemistry 1 OR 300227 General Biochemistry OR 300555 Proteins and Genes AND 300300 Microbiology 1 OR 300331 General Microbiology
About this Unit
In 2013 this unit will be replaced by 300896 - Microbiology 2. This unit discusses the origins of genetic variation in prokaryotes and explores the structure and metabolic diversity of microorganisms from a variety of habitats including extreme environments. Studies of the biochemistry of prokaryotes focus on metabolic strategies for energy generation and growth in various natural environments. Students are introduced to the applications of microbial metabolism in food, wine and other industries. The principles of classification and identification of bacteria and yeasts are developed. This includes an introduction to molecular systematics and its impact on the classification of living organisms and in areas such as molecular diagnostics and epidemiology. The unit also addresses the principles and applications of recombinant DNA techniques in biotechnology and in the study of microbial physiology and genetics. Laboratory classes introduce students to techniques used to study microbial identification, physiology and genetics.
Specialisations