Basic Microbiology and Biotechnology
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of microbiology and biotechnology, exploring their history, scope, and practical applications in modern science and industry. Students will gain foundational knowledge about the nature of biotechnology, industrial microbiology, and the cellular organization of living organisms, including the classification and taxonomy of microorganisms relevant to industrial and biotechnological processes.
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of life's three domains: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya focusing specifically on the critical roles of bacteria and fungi in industrial applications. Students will examine the defining traits of industrially significant microbes and the principles for selecting optimal strains for production processes. A key theme is the collaborative, multidisciplinary approach essential for success in industrial microbiology. The curriculum also delves into molecular biology fundamentals, including the structure and function of DNA and RNA, and the core processes of genetic information flow: replication, transcription, and translation. Furthermore, students will engage with modern biotechnological methods such as the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), gene sequencing, and recombinant DNA technology, evaluating their practical uses and tools within industry.- Lecturer : Victor Chinaza Ekemezie