This course focuses on applying techniques and methods related to molecular biology, microbial culture and classification and in the functional analysis of microbial genomes and microbiomes associated with disease, the biotechnology industry and the environment. These subject areas are developed in great depth depending on students' interest or desired career aspirations.
The course provides the theoretical knowledge, understanding and practical skills to ensure a solid grounding in core and applied microbiology, along with the transferable skills which are essential to enhance students' employability options. This aims to prepare them for a broad range of careers within industrial, commercial, government and environmental settings and further postgraduate study. Students are introduced to some of the contemporary issues facing the industry and the course provides hands-on practical experience of both laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. They can explore medical, industrial and environmental microbiology, molecular, cell and system biology, recombinant DNA technology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, fermentation, bioengineering and many other areas. During the course, students have the opportunity to investigate diverse areas of microbiology which are of concern to the healthcare, environmental, ecological and biotechnological sectors. Students also have the chance to undertake research in relation to medical, environmental or industrial microbiology, which can further enhance their knowledge, skills and career options.
