Prerequisites:

First-cycle Bologna degree or a university degree in the natural sciences.

Content (Syllabus outline):

• General methodology
• Biogeochemical cycling
• Hydro-ecosphere (water microbiology and public health)
• Litho-ecosphere (soil, subsurface, landfills)
• Atmo-ecosphere and aerobiology
• Biotransformation and biodegradation

Readings:

• Madigan, M., Bender, K.S., Buckley, D.H., Sattley, W.M., Stahl, D. (2019). Brock Biology of Microorganisms. (15th Edition) Pearson, New York, USA, Unit I: 1. The Microbial World, 2. Microbial Cell Structure and Function, 3. Microbial Metabolism, Unit III: Biotechnolgy and Synthetic Biology, Unit V: 19. Taking the Measure of Microbial Systems, 20. Microbial Ecosystems, 21. Nutrient Cycles in Nature, 22. Microbiology of the Build Environment.
• Selected articles from scientific journals.

Objectives and competences:

Environmental microbiology addresses the role that microorganisms play in biogeochemical cycling in all planetary environments. Microorganisms in the air, water and soil interact with environment, and have a considerable impact on human health and welfare.

Throughout the course, the students will become acquainted with basic principles of environmental microbiology, biogeochemical cycling, general analytical methodologies and detection of microbial activity and control of pathogens in the environment.

Intended learning outcomes:

• Knowledge of methods and concepts in
• environmental microbiology.
• Ability to design experiments and interpret
• microbiological results.
• Knowledge of selected software and applications for analyses in environmental microbiology and modern research trends.

Assessment:

Seminar paper (50 %), written examination, oral examination (50 %).