Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

• The aim is to provide a fundamental understanding of how to characterize identity and function of prokaryotes using imaging and molecular techniques, how prokaryotes form consortia and biofilms,  and how mixed microbial communities can be used to solve environmental challenges, such as production of bioenergy, reuse of resources, and production of clean water.
• Identification of microorganisms using molecular and bioinformatic approaches
• Use of advanced microscopy for characterization of microorganisms in mixed cultures
• Methods to determine activity of microorganisms directly in biofilm
• Biofilm formation, composition, microbial communication and microbial communities
• Pathogenic bacteria in biofilms
• Principles for control of unwanted prokaryotes
• Transformation of micropollutants
• Transformation of C, N and P in mixed communities
• Use of mixed communities to purify soil, water and air

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who have passed the module should be able to

• Account for the formation, composition, growth and activity of mixed microbial communities 
• Describe growth of human-related and pathogenic bacteria in biofilms
• Explain the use of mixed communities to clean soil, water and air for C, N and P
• Explain the use of mixed communities for nutrient recovery and bioenergy production

Skills

• Apply bioinformatic databases and account for molecular techniques used for identification of microorganisms

Type of instruction

• Lectures and theoretical exercises

Extent and expected workload

150 hours

Exam

Exams