Microbiology (MICR)

MICR 380     Epidemiology     3 Credit Hours

Introduces the methods for infectious disease epidemiology (occurence and spread in population) and case studies of important disease syndromes and entities. Methods include definitions and nomenclature, outbreak investigations, disease surveillance, case-control studies, cohort studies , laboratory diagnosis, molecular epidemiology, dynamics of transmission, and assessment of vaccine field effectiveness. Case-studies focus on acute respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, hepatitis, HIV, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, malaria, and other vector-borne diseases. This course emphasizes methods of study that would contribute to understanding diseases etiology. This course will also cover important concepts in social epidemiology, including social inequalities and social capital in health, clinical studies and treatment of diseases. (S).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 140

MICR 385     Microbiology     4 Credit Hours

The biology of microorganisms is considered through study of the properties of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses. Microbial structures are discussed and correlated with their function. Aspects of cellular metabolism pertinent to microorganisms are emphasized. The interaction of microorganisms and their environment, animate and inanimate, is discussed with respect to the beneficial or harmful effects of the different microbial groups. Laboratory exercises introduce the student to basic, practical microbiological techniques and illustrate various principles of microbial life. Three hours lecture, four hours laboratory. (F,S).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 140 and (CHEM 134* or CHEM 144*)

Corequisite(s): MICR 385L

MICR 390     Topics in Microbiology     1 to 6 Credit Hours

Current topics in microbiology will be presented through a lecture, discussion and/or laboratory format. Topics will vary, as appropriate, and may cover any area of microbiology including studies on bacteria, algae, fungi, protozoa, viruses, biotechnology, mechanisms of pathogenesis and immunology. (OC).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 385 or MICR 385

MICR 405     Applied & Environ Microbiology     4 Credit Hours

The study of the diversity, structure and function of microorganisms as they interact with their environment. Emphasis will be placed on soil microbiology (fungi, bacteria, microalgae) and plant-microbe interactions (pathogens, symbioses). Ecological topics include decomposition, nutrient cycling, bioremediation and agroecosystems. Three hours lecture, four hours laboratory. (W).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 140

Restriction(s):
Can enroll if Class is Senior

MICR 440     Microbial Genetics & Physiology Laboratory     1 Credit Hour

This course emphasizes the use of advanced microbiological techniques for understanding the genetics and physiology of microorganisms. Experiments focus on the understanding of general microbial phenomena, such as nutrition, metabolism and biochemistry; protein and nucleic acid synthesis; energy generation, enzyme regulation, membrane transport, motility, differentiation, cellular communication and the behavior of populations. (W).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 140*

Restriction(s):
Cannot enroll if Class is Freshman
Can enroll if Level is Undergraduate

MICR 450     Virology     4 Credit Hours

The first half of this course deals with bacterial viruses, with emphasis on classical events in this field. The second half surveys the field of animal viruses, with emphasis on recent discoveries, including replication, pathogenesis, and viral association with cancers. Three hours lecture, four hours laboratory. (AY,W).

Prerequisite(s): (BIOL 385 or MICR 385) and CHEM 226

MICR 455     Immunology     4 Credit Hours

A detailed study of the field of immunology. Among the topics covered are various aspects of the immunological response, such as humoral or cell-mediated immunity, cell-cell interactions, and immunology as related to the cause and prevention of disease. Three hours lecture, four hours laboratory. (AY,F).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 385 or BIOL 301 or MICR 385

MICR 459     Pathogenic Microbiology     4 Credit Hours

An introduction to pathogenic microorganisms and mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity. Disease-causing bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa are studied. Laboratories emphasize clinical approaches to isolation, identification, and treatment. Three hours lecture, four hours laboratory. (AY,F).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 385 or MICR 385

MICR 485     Phys & Bchm of Microorg (MICR)     3 Credit Hours

An in-depth examination of the physiology and biochemistry of microorganisms. Areas of emphasis include the growth and nutrition of microorganisms, the development of viruses, the microbial degradation of organic compounds, the regulation of degradation reactions, and the biosynthesis of uniquely microbial compounds and secondary metabolites, such as antibiotics and toxins. Consideration is given to the natural environments of specific microorganisms. (W, YR).

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 140 and CHEM 225*

MICR 495     Off-Campus Research     1 to 3 Credit Hours

Participation in ongoing experimental research at an off-campus laboratory (or in the field). Arrangements made between the research laboratory, (director of field study), the student, and the microbiology concentration advisor. No more than 6 hours combined from MICR 495, 498, and 499 may be credited toward the 120 hours required for a degree. Four to twelve hours laboratory. Permission of concentration advisor. (F,W,S).

MICR 497     Seminar in Microbiology     1 Credit Hour

Topics of current interest in microbiology will be presented by guest lecturers, faculty members or students. Topics chosen will vary from term to term. Can be elected up to three times. One hour seminar. Permission of instructor. (W).

MICR 498     Ind Study in Microbiology     1 to 3 Credit Hours

Library research and independent study performed under the guidance of a faculty member. Four to twelve hours readings. (F,W,S).

MICR 499     Lab in Micro Research     1 to 3 Credit Hours

Directed laboratory research performed under the guidance of a faculty member. Four to twelve hours laboratory. Permission of instructor. (F,W,S).

*An asterisk denotes that a course may be taken concurrently.

Frequency of Offering

The following abbreviations are used to denote the frequency of offering: (F) fall term; (W) winter term; (S) summer term; (F, W) fall and winter terms; (YR) once a year; (AY) alternating years; (OC) offered occasionally