Microbial processes in the soil and sediment environments. The ecology of the various microbial communities; the decomposition of organic matter, carbon transformations, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and other mineral transformations; chemistry of these reactions and their biogeochemical implications; biological equilibrium, the rhizosphere, and microbial associations. Prerequisites: basic biology and organic chemistry.

Description not available at this time

An examination of the basic physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil with emphasis on environmental science and natural resource applications. Soil's natural role in biome structure, nutrient cycling, water purification, and carbon storage will be explored. Processes important to soil and groundwater pollution (subsurface movement, attenuation, and remediation) will be discussed. Special attention given to wetland soil processes and the identification of hydric soils in the landscape.

Not available at this time

Molecular biology of viruses and viral genetic systems; viral disease processes. Emphasis on polio virus, influenza, herpes viruses, the DNA tumor viruses, retroviruses (including HIV), and hepadna viruses. Prerequisite: background in cell biology, genetics, or biochemistry. Mr. Norkin

Traditional and molecular methods strategically applied to problems related to microbial biotechnology and environmental microbiology. Ranges from the diversity of microbial life to biodegradation. Seven general areas emphasized: 1) Statistical sampling and site characterization, 2) biomass determination, 3) enrichment techniques, 4) microbial activity measurements, 5) single cell detection in situ, 6) sequence and phylogenetic analysis followed by probe design, and 7) other modern techniques of environmental microbiology.

In this course, we will explore the field of quorum sensing and cellular communication, focusing on strategies microbes have developed to sense neighboring cells and regulate biological processes. A specific emphasis will be placed on processes of biomedical importance and environmental relevance as well as effective strategies to manipulate of alter these processes to benefit mankind. Students will develop two presentations. Satisfies one of the three required modules for the Integrative Experience requirement for BS-MicBio majors.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a set of infectious diseases arising from a diverse group

The vast majority of Earth?s biodiversity is microbial. Microorganisms are directly involved in the ecosystem services on which all of life depends. They interact intimately with other organisms and yet we know much less about their biodiversity than we do for plants and animals. Our lack of understanding of the interactions and feedbacks of microbial biodiversity is troubling, given the high rates of environmental change that the Earth is currently experiencing, including man-made global climate change.

Description not available at this time