Basics of microbial biotechnology Field of study: Biotechnology
Programme code: W2-S2BT19.2021

Module name: Basics of microbial biotechnology
Module code: 2BT_55A
Programme code: W2-S2BT19.2021
Semester: summer semester 2021/2022
Language of instruction: depending on the choice
Form of verification: exam
ECTS credits: 4
Description:
The course delivers the basic knowledge of microbial biotechnology. The course will cover advanced methods associated with microbial synthesis and degradation processes as well as their economics. The emphasis will be placed upon variety of abiotic and biotic mechanisms involved in the conversion of persistent compounds in the environment. Special attention will be paid to synthesis, disposal and biodegradation of plastic materials and microbial screening for enzymes and metabolites synthesising microorganisms of potential use in various industries. During the course the students will perform screening for microorganisms with desired properties and isolate commercially useful metabolites. Moreover, students will examine degradability of natural and synthetic polymeric materials in various environments. The estimation of susceptibility of plastics to filamentous fungi and white rot fungi as well as fungal enzymes involved in the degradation will be tested. Through the analysis, interpretation and discussion of the results students integrate knowledge, skills and competence.
Prerequisites:
Basic knowledge of chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology and enzymology
Key reading:
according to the Syllabus
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
Student has detailed knowledge and ability to assess the risks associated with microbiological processes of synthesis and degradation of various compounds as well as their application on an industrial scale [2BT_55_1]
 2BT_W02_P [4/5] 2BT_W05_P [4/5] 2BT_W08_P [4/5] 2BT_W09_P [4/5] 2BT_U04_P [5/5]
Student classifies the xenobiotic. Describes the mechanisms of their microbial transformation in the environment [2BT_55_2]
 2BT_W03_P [4/5] 2BT_U02_P [4/5]
Student knows and applies the principles of screening for microorganisms with desired properties [2BT_55_3]
 2BT_W09_P [5/5] 2BT_U01_P [5/5] 2BT_U03_P [4/5]
Student can perform biochemical and morphological characteristics of the microorganisms isolated from the environment [2BT_55_4]
 2BT_U01_P [4/5] 2BT_U03_P [3/5]
Student induces and identifies the enzymes and metabolites of microbial origin and demonstrates their use in the industry and environmental protection [2BT_55_5]
 2BT_U03_P [3/5]
Student rates and evaluates methods used in assessing the biodegradability of polymeric waste [2BT_55_6]
 2BT_U04_P [5/5] 2BT_U06_P [5/5]
Student interprets, thinks analytically and evaluates critically the results of experimental work using current information and past experiences. [2BT_55_7]
 2BT_W08_P [5/5] 2BT_U05_P [3/5] 2BT_U06_P [4/5] 2BT_K01_P [5/5]
Students will gain experience in effective communication skills by practicing, listening and speaking clearly. Respect the safety rules when working with microorganisms. [2BT_55_8]
 2BT_K02_P [5/5] 2BT_K04_P [5/5]
Critically uses sources of information on the environmental impact of plastics, including internet data. Is able to assess the credibility of information based on its sources and use information in the process of self-education [2BT_55_9]
 2BT_K01_P [5/5]
Type Description Codes of the learning outcomes of the module to which assessment is related
Coursework [2BT_55_w_1]
according to the Syllabus
 2BT_55_1 2BT_55_2 2BT_55_3 2BT_55_4 2BT_55_5 2BT_55_6 2BT_55_7 2BT_55_8 2BT_55_9
Exam [2BT_55_w_2]
according to the Syllabus
 2BT_55_1 2BT_55_2 2BT_55_5 2BT_55_6 2BT_55_9
Form of teaching Student's own work Assessment of the learning outcomes
Type Description (including teaching methods) Number of hours Description Number of hours
lecture [2BT_55_fs_1]
Multimedia lecture
 10
Memorising and describing the material from the lectures, assessing basic sources of information and how to evaluate and use this information
 10 Exam [2BT_55_w_2]
laboratory classes [2BT_55_fs_2]
Cooperative work in the biochemical and microbiological laboratory under the supervision of lecturer, performing experiments according to the instructions given to students, analysis of the results
 35
Reading instructions, planning and basic understanding of the scientific method, preparation of report, recognition of the biodegradable plastics market
 45 Coursework [2BT_55_w_1]
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)