BB1030 Microbiology 9.0 credits

The course handles microorganism morphology and structure along with their occurrence in nature. Taxonomical and physiological aspects of viruses, bacteria, protozoa, algae and fungi are covered. Special consideration is given to the bacterial cell, its nourishment demands and growth. Control of growth is clarified through sterilization, disinfection and antibiotics. The basics of bacterial genetics are covered along with bacterial genetic development toward modern phylogenetics with the help of gene sequencing of 16s rRNA. Mechanisms for sickness, for example: toxins and bacteria which are resistant against the body’s defenses, are also covered. Some meaningful microbial diseases are given as examples.

Significant microbial processes for application within traditional and modern biotechnology are also covered. A couple of examples of such processes are biological water purification and ground decontamination.

After passing the course, the student should:

• have a general knowledge about microorganisms and their occurrence in nature
• understand structure, replication and physiology of microorganisms
• be aware of techniques for identification of microorganisms
• have an awareness of microorganism cooperation with and ability to harm other living organisms
• Choose and select suitable methods to control microbial growth
• understand implications of microorganisms for science and industry, specifically on the environment, human beings and the society
• describe societal factors that are responsible for the spread of antimicrobial resistance
• master presentation techniques to be able convey scientific observations

Lectures

The course consists of 16 lectures with specified learning outcomes.

Labs

The course begins with light and phase contrast microscopy, general sterilization techniques and measurements of bacterial concentration. Next comes a connected, coherent lab which consists of planning and execution: isolation, clean cultivation, and characterization of bacteria from a natural environment with the help of microscopy, cultivation on selective and differentiated mediums, proof by enzymes and other microbial products along with antibiotic spectrum. Also, in this lab, nourishment mediums and substrates are to be prepared to cultivate aerobically and anaerobically as well as searching for information about isolated bacteria being cultivated. The results are presented in a seminar orally,

in a written report, and as a poster. A modern technique to color bacteria’s ribosome with the help of fluorescent-labeled probes is taught. This technique, FISH, is used to see specific bacteria in their natural environment. With this, 16s rRNA is isolated and sequenced for further work with the bioinformatics course.

Practice assignments

During the exercises, the students work with questions where the serach information online, in scientific literature and in the course literature. 

Group exercise

Students will work in groups to write an in-depth work around a topic where microorganisms play a fundamental role in creating a sustainable society.

Completed upper secondary education including documented proficiency in English corresponding to English A.

BB1010 An Introduction to Biochemistry and BB1020 Cellbiology with immunology.

Brock Biology of Microorganisms, 16th edition, 2021. M. Madigan, J. Martinko, K. Bernder, D. Buckley, and D. Stahl.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• LABA - Laboratory Work, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• PROA - Advanced study, 0.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TENB - Written exam, 5.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Passed examination (TENA; 5,5 credits, grading scale A-F), passed laboratory exercises (LABA; 3 credits, grading scale Pass/Fail) and passed group exercise (PROA; 0.5 credits, grading scale Pass/Fail)

Paul Hudson

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information about the course can be found on the Course web at the link below. Information on the Course web will later be moved to this site.

Students are required to sign up at least two weeks in advance for examination.

The course is given provided at least seven students are admitted.