Content (Syllabus outline)
Lectures:
- An introduction to microbiology: An examination of the role of microorganisms in the formation of Earth's atmosphere and their crucial importance for global biogeochemical cycles. A presentation of the historical development of the discipline and the fundamental tools for studying microorganisms, from classical light microscopy and staining techniques, such as Gram staining, to methods for the isolation and cultivation of pure cultures. A detailed analysis of the structure and function of the prokaryotic cell, including the differences between Gram-positive and Gram-negative cell walls. Structure and function of the cells of eukaryotic microorganisms
- An overview of microbial metabolism and growth: Principles of bioenergetics, catabolic and anabolic pathways, physical and chemical growth factors, and the dynamics of microbial population growth. Methods for growth control, including sterilization, disinfection, and the action of antibiotics.
- A systematic review of microbial diversity: Evolution, the fundamentals of phylogenetic classification, basics of taxonomy, and a presentation of the key groups of bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes and viruses.
- The role of microorganisms in nature: Fundamentals of microbial ecology. Microorganisms and biogeochemical cycles. Interactions between microorganisms, between microorganisms and hither organisms.
- Interactions of microorganisms and humans: Mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity, the functioning of the innate and adaptive immune systems, and the principles of infectious disease epidemiology. Human microbiome and its role in health and disease.
- The role of microbiology in addressing contemporary challenges of humanity: The significance of microbes for climate change, the role of microbiological knowledge in preventing and managing pandemics, the application of microorganisms in biotechnology, and the importance of extremophiles in astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth.
Seminar:
Selected microbiology topics.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites for performing study obligations:
Exam: seminar presentation.