BIOL0212-1 : Introduction to environmental microbiology

University of Liege | Version française

Study programmes 2011-2012

Last update : 14/06/2012

BIOL0212-1

Introduction to environmental microbiology

Duration :

30h Th

Number of credits :

Bachelor in engineering sciences, civil engineer orientation (Bachelor in engineering sciences, civil engineer orientation), 3rd year	Toute l'année	2

Bachelor in engineering sciences, civil engineer orientation (Bachelor in engineering sciences, civil engineer orientation), 3rd year	First semester	2

Master in Geological and Mining Enginneering, in-deph approach, 1st year	First semester	2

Master in Geological and Mining Engineering, specialized approach, 1st year	First semester	2

Lecturer :

Monique Carnol

Language(s) of instruction :

French language

Course contents :

Microorganisms are invisible to the naked eye, yet they are essential components of all ecosystem. They can be found in the atmosphere, as well as in deep subsurface environments, where they are responsible for key functions. They intervene in the production and consumption of O2 and CO2, they are responsible for the transformation of numerous substances and their activity can be exploited for applied issues, such as bioremediation. This course has been designed for students with little knowledge in (micro-)biology. You will discover the major roles played by microorganismes, the consequences of their activities and some practical applications. Particular importance is given to the application of microbiology concepts in the field of engineering. The understanding of theoretical concepts is favoured by the integration of theoretical sessions and case studies.
The course comprises three modules:

Module 1: Diversity, nutrition and growth of microorganisms
Module 2: Soil microbiology and biogeochemical cycles
Module 3: Microbiology of biodegradation and biological treatment of soils (bioremediation)

Learning outcomes of the course :

I. Acquiring basic knowledge on:

The diversity, metabolism and growth of microorganisms
The physico-chemical environment of the soil
The role of microorganisms in carbon, nitrogen and sulphur cycling, the environmental consequences of their activities and the influence of human activities.
The application of microbial activites in the biological treatment of soils.

II. Application of theory to real situations:

Understanding and use of the vocabulary specific to environmental microbiology
Understanding the influence of soil physico-chemical characteristics on the availability of water and nutrients and on the presence and activity of microorganisms
Understanding the use and criteria for applying microbial activities in the processes of bioremediation
Application of course theory and techniques of analyses of case studies for approaching problems in environmental microbiology
Evaluation of the pertinence of a technique using microorganisms in environmental management

III. Developing attitudes:

Discovery of literature resources useful in environmental microbiology
Realise the complexity, variability, diversity and importance of microbial processes in the environment
Developing skills in group activities, analysis and synthesis
Practice communication techniques such as poster presentation, oral presentation and debate

Prerequisites and co-requisites/ Recommended optional programme components :

Basic/detailed notions in microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry and ecology are useful, but not essential.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods :

Lectures, case studies, discussions

Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning) :

Lectures (face-to-face) are given in the second 'quadrimestre', 2 hours a week, Tuesday from 10h30 to 12h30. Lectures (power point presentations) are integrated with case studies treating real situations. Following the case study, a task has to be performed as group work or individually.