General Microbiology

The course aims to provide students with basic microbiology knowledge, and the general information necessary for the application of microbiological methodologies to biotechnology. The course focuses on the analysis of microbial cellular structure, physiology and genetics, on potential applications of microorganisms in biotechnology and on the mechanisms of pathogenesis by both bacteria and viruses.

The students will acquire detailed knowledge and understanding of the composition and fundamental biological processes of bacterial cells, and will achieve a clear understanding of microbial diversity at the level of metabolic processes and gene regulation.
The student will be able to use basic methods of microbiology and apply the cultural skills acquired in advanced courses.
Critical and judgmental skills, and ability of students to communicate what they have learned, are mostly developed through laboratory activities and discussion of the results obtained.
The microbiological culture acquired through this course will provide the student with the skills to study microbiology even in a completely autonomous way.