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Biological interactions, particularly with micro-organisms, impact on almost every aspect of biology, from plant nutrient uptake and photosynthesis to animal digestion to ecosystem function. We will explore the intimate interactions of micro-organisms (bacteria, oomycetes, fungi, archaea) with plants and animals, other micro-organisms and extreme environments. Students will develop skills in evaluating how molecular, ecological, biochemical and synthetic community approaches all contribute to our understanding of these critical, yet challenging to study, interactions. Students will apply their understanding to practical questions in using micro-organisms for biological control and primary productivity and to understanding gut microbiome.
Biological interactions, particularly with micro-organisms, impact on almost every aspect of biology, from plant nutrient uptake and photosynthesis to animal digestion to ecosystem function. We will explore the intimate interactions of micro-organisms (bacteria, oomycetes, fungi, archaea) with plants and animals, other micro-organisms and extreme environments. Students will develop skills in evaluating how molecular, ecological, biochemical and synthetic community approaches all contribute to our understanding of these critical, yet challenging to study, interactions. Students will apply their understanding to practical questions in using micro-organisms for biological control and primary productivity and to understanding gut microbiome. To be successful in this course, we expect that you have had some microbiology at least to the 200 level. If you haven't had 300 level microbiology, we advise discussing the course with the course coordinator before enrolling. Recommended preparatory course(s): at least one of BIOL313, 332-335, 455, 460 and/ or BCHM301 (BIOL 331). Experience in ecology would be helpful.
As a student in this course I will develop the ability to:● Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding and evaluation of experimental design, methodology and data (task: seminar discussions, exam).● A sense of how scientists contribute to discovery. (task: seminar discussions)● A sense of how scientific knowledge can be communicated and applied (task: assignments)● A sense of the importance and limitations of scientific and technical methodology. (assessment task: exam)● The ability to access and critically assess the scientific literature and techniques in applied and molecular microbiology (assessment task: seminar discussions, exam)● Engage in science and technology issues with a broader understanding of their social and cultural context (assessment task: assignments) Transferable skills register ● I can express myself as a scientist. This will be important for any career in research, journalism or business where you will need to communicate science to both experts and lay readers. The two assignments will focus on two forms of scientific communication.
Subject to approval of the Head of School. RP: At least one of BIOL313, BIOL332-335, BIOL352, BIOL455, BIOL460, and/or BCHM305.
BIOL493
At least one of BIOL313, BIOL332-335, BIOL352, BIOL455, BIOL460, and/or BCHM305.
Matthew Stott
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Domestic fee $1,033.00
International Postgraduate fees
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see School of Biological Sciences .