Biotechnology and Microbiology for Environmental Sustainability

The course acquaints students with the possibilities of using microbiological and biotechnological tools in the field of protection and sustainable environment, mainly in the assessment of the state of the environment, in monitoring the quality of soil, water and air, and in bioremediation.

This course demonstrates a huge diversity of microorganisms and their roles in natural processes occurring in soils, water and air. Students will learn how microorganisms contribute to environmental quality. The course will get students theoretical knowledge how to perform microbial analysis of soil, water and air. The students get to know the basic methods and techniques for detection and quantification of microorganisms in different habitats and microbial activity.

KNOWLEDGE:

1. student is able to describe the main groups of microorganisms and their role in the environment and biotechnology;

2. student has an elementary knowledge in basic areas of biotechnology and microbiology

3. student knows of basic vocabulary in the field microbiology and biotechnology

4. student is able to name and describe the basic methods of microbiological analysis of water, soil and air;

5. student knows safety rules in the microbiological laboratory;

SKILLS:

1. student is able to recognize and describe the morphological systems of bacteria and fungi

2. student applies basic techniques, appropriate for microbiology and biotechnology and is able to use basic laboratory equipment and perform basic laboratory activities such as pipetting, making dilutions, inoculations, etc.;

3. student performs simple measurements and analyses of biological samples and makes the observation at a basic level; is able to describe the results and draw conclusions from the conducted experiences;

COMPETENCE:

1. student demonstrates understanding of the phenomena and the physical and chemical processes in nature

2. student is able to work in a team;

3. student maintains security while working with microorganisms and is responsible for the equipment;

ECTS: 150/30 = 5 ECTS

attendance - 30 h

learning new specialised vocabulary (30h)

reports on exercises carried out (30 h)

activity on the Moodle platform (30h)

final test (30 h)

This course introduces the students to how microbiological and biotechnological tools can be applied in the field of environmental protection and environmental sustainability, mainly in assessing the state of the environment, in monitoring of soil, water and air quality, and in bioremediation.

This course demonstrates a huge diversity of microorganisms and their roles in natural processes occurring in soils, water and air. Students will learn how microorganisms contribute to environmental quality. The course will get students theoretical knowledge and also practical skills, how to perform microbial analysis of soil, water and air. The students will learn the basic methods and techniques for detection and quantification of microorganisms in different habitats and microbial activity.

The student should have a basic knowledge of microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology.