2006 Handbooks

Microorganisms were the first life forms, and still play a central role in all ecosystems. Despite their importance, we have only recently realised that the vast majority of microorganisms are undescribed and cannot be cultured in the laboratory. Molecular techniques used in this Unit allow us to investigate the diversity of these unknown microorganisms, to examine their role in symbioses with larger organisms, and to recover novel genes of potential use in pharmaceutical, industrial and biotechnological industries. These techniques provide a thorough grounding in analysis of microorganisms in the environment. Lectures will deal with the diverse habitats and niches that microorganisms are found in, examine microbial products such as hydrolytic enzymes and biological control agents, and assess strain development for industrial and environmental uses.

Lectures will be given on a weekly basis as shown in the timetable. Laboratory work, for both internal and external students, will be carried out in block practical sessions.