1. Describe the structure, physiology and diversity of microorganisms and explain innate and adaptive immune responses.

Knowledge & Understanding

Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

2. Demonstrate developing digital literacy through the effective use of digital tools and platforms to source, evaluate and communicate scientific information in formats suitable for academic and public audiences

Digital Literacy

3. Apply and evaluate microbiological and immunological techniques to safely identify and analyse microorganisms and interpret host-pathogen interactions

Application & Problem Solving

Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

1) The group assessment on “real world impact” will focus on the interface between what we know about microorganisms and our immune systems whilst highlighting the impact of this on health. Students will work in groups to develop their audio/visual output. Students can choose whether this is a video-based submission or purely audio (vlog or podcast style). This task introduces students to core digital literacy skills, including the use of accessible media production tools, effective digital communication and responsible selection of online sources. It should be engaging and utilise the skills of the group. Time will be given for preparatory work for this presentation in timetabled sessions as part of workshops where peer and academic feedback will be available.

2) The curated lab book assessment focuses on the interface between practical skills and the theory that underpins applications (e.g. the process of differential staining and the underpinning theory and applications), based on two selected annotated entries with commentary explaining technique and theory link.

Students will be encouraged to maintain an ongoing reflective laboratory record throughout practical sessions, supported by exemplars and opportunities for peer comparison. Ongoing self-review helps students link observations, underpinning theory and real-world applications.

In this module, you will discover the structure, diversity and behaviour of microorganisms and explore the immune responses that protect the human body from infection. Including:

Overview of key groups of microorganisms and their cellular organisation, physiology, growth and metabolism.

Principles of microbial classification, identification and laboratory investigation, including microscopy and culture-based approaches.

Control of microbial growth and antimicrobial strategies, with consideration of resistance and normal microbiota

Foundations of immunology, including innate and adaptive responses, inflammation, and host–pathogen interactions.

Development of core practical skills in microbiology and immunology, including aseptic technique, culture handling, enumeration and data interpretation.

How does your body recognise and defend itself against the microbial world?

In this module, you will discover the structure, diversity and behaviour of microorganisms and explore the immune responses that protect the human body from infection. You will investigate how microbes grow, how they cause disease and how the immune system detects and eliminates them. By linking microbiology with host defence, you will build essential foundations for understanding infection, immunity and clinical laboratory practice across your biomedical science degree.

Sessions will include lectures, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork, drop-in support sessions. There will also be laboratory practical sessions.

Scott, J. (2022) Biological science: exploring the science of life. Biomedical edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Available at: https://app.kortext.com/borrow/2114845.

Madigan, M. et al. (2021) Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Global Edition. 16th edn. Harlow: Pearson Education, Limited.

Brown, T. A. (2025) Introduction to Genetics. 2nd edition. CRC Press

Suitable rooming for group work and discussion

Scientific laboratory for practical block

IT suite space with access to PCs