The module will involve a detailed study of the structure of bacteria, fungi and viruses. The relationship between structure and function will be considered along with adaptations which allow microorganisms to live in a variety of environments (including extreme environments). Phenetic and phylogeneic methods to classify microorganisms will be evaluated. Physiological aspects of microbiology will include growth of microorganisms, sporulation and motility and quorum sensing. The use of chemotherapeutic agents to control microbial growth and how microorganisms develop resistance to the antimicrobial agents will be discussed.

Material will be delivered by twelve, two hour tutor lead lectures highlighting the major themes within the module.

Lecture material will be reinforced by a series of student centred tasks involving various texts, reviews, research papers and material available electronically

Students will be required to complete two pieces of summative assessment.
1. Two-hour examination. Students answer 3 from 5 questions. Weighting 70%. Outcomes 1 and 3.
2. Essay (1200 words). A critical evaluation of taxonomic systems. Weighting 30%. Outcome 2.

Students will be provided with formative assessment and feedback via:
Students will be provided with sample exam questions and asked to prepare outline answers. These will be discussed in an end of module revision session. Students can submit essay (once) for feedback prior to final submission.

Lecture theatre, networked computers to access web based material, appropriate texts in library.

Madigan, M. T., Martinko, J. M. & Parker, J. (2003). Biology of Microorganisms (10th ed). Prentice Hall
Nicklin, J., K. Graeme-Cook and R. Killington. (2002). Instant notes in Microbiology (2nd ed). BIOS Scientific Publishers Ltd

Cell Biology and Diversity of Life