Molecular Microbiology BIOR63

Overview

This course offers an in-depth dive into the molecular world of bacteria. You’ll learn about bacterial structure, genome organisation, stress responses, genetics, and gene regulation. It also covers modern techniques such as genetic engineering, CRISPR-Cas gene editing, transcriptomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics.

Many core principles in biology have been discovered through bacterial research – including the genetic code, DNA replication and transcription mechanisms, and the development of advanced genetic engineering tools. This course explores these foundations at the molecular level, helping you understand their structure and significance. You’ll also examine how random (stochastic) processes contribute to genetic diversity and phenotypic variation, and how these influence bacterial survival and adaptation.

The course includes a detailed study of bacteriophage structure and life cycles, offering insight into their role in bacterial ecology and gene transfer. By working with both model organisms like Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, and non-model species, as well as their viruses, you’ll gain a broad understanding of bacterial diversity and their importance to life on Earth.

Teaching and learning

Teaching includes lectures, tutorials, group discussions, lab work and project-based learning. Core concepts and theories are introduced in lectures and supported by course literature. These are then applied in problem-solving seminars, helping you deepen your understanding and develop the skills to tackle complex challenges.

In molecular microbiology, mutants are essential tools for studying bacterial genetics and biology. A key part of the course is a hands-on lab project where you’ll design or analyse bacterial mutants using advanced molecular techniques. Working in pairs, you’ll plan and carry out the project independently. This gives you practical experience in molecular biology, including experimental design, lab work, data analysis, documentation and scientific communication.

Examination takes place through a written examination at the end of the course as well as through written assignments, labs and seminars during the course.