Basics of microbial biotechnology Field of study: Biotechnology
Programme code: W2-S2BTA19.2021

Module name: Basics of microbial biotechnology
Module code: 2BT_E_55
Programme code: W2-S2BTA19.2021
Semester:
  • summer semester 2024/2025
  • summer semester 2023/2024
  • summer semester 2022/2023
  • summer semester 2021/2022
Language of instruction: English
Form of verification: exam
ECTS credits: 4
Description:
The course is designed to demonstrate methods and spark debate related to the basics of microbial biotechnology. It covers advanced techniques associated with microbial synthesis and degradation processes as well as their economics. Microbial screening for enzymes and metabolites-synthesizing microorganisms of potential use in various industries. During the course, the students will perform screening for microorganisms with desired properties and isolate commercially valuable metabolites. A part of degradation experiments emphasizes a variety of abiotic and biotic mechanisms involved in the conversion of persistent compounds in the environment. Special attention is paid to the synthesis, disposal, and degradation of plastic materials as an example of the most contemporary persistent xenobiotics. Students will examine the degradability of natural and synthetic polymeric materials under laboratory and field conditions in various environments. Additionally, basics related to the use of microorganisms in zero-waste economy will be discussed.
Prerequisites:
Basic knowledge of chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology and enzymology.
Key reading:
see: syllabus compulsory reading
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_E_55_1]
 2BT_E_W02_P [4/5] 2BT_E_W03_P [5/5] 2BT_E_W08_P [5/5] 2BT_E_W09_P [5/5] 2BT_E_U04_P [5/5]
Student analyses mechanisms of transformation of exemplary recalcitrant xenobiotics in the environment [2BT_E_55_2]
 2BT_E_W03_P [4/5] 2BT_E_W05_P [3/5] 2BT_E_U02_P [5/5]
Student knows and applies the principles of screening for microorganisms with desired properties. [2BT_E_55_3]
 2BT_E_W09_P [5/5] 2BT_E_U01_P [5/5] 2BT_E_U03_P [4/5]
Student can perform biochemical and morphological characteristics of the microorganisms isolated from the environment. [2BT_E_55_4]
 2BT_E_U01_P [4/5] 2BT_E_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_E_55_5]
 2BT_E_U03_P [3/5]
Student rates and evaluates methods and standards used in assessing the degradability of polymers and plastics in an environment [2BT_E_55_6]
 2BT_E_U04_P [5/5] 2BT_E_U06_P [5/5]
Student interprets, thinks analytically and evaluates critically the results of experimental work using current information and past experiences. [2BT_E_55_7]
 2BT_E_W08_P [5/5] 2BT_E_U05_P [3/5] 2BT_E_U06_P [4/5] 2BT_E_K01_P [5/5]
Student practices effective communication and cooperation with other people. Respect the safety rules when working with microorganisms. [2BT_E_55_8]
 2BT_E_K01_P [5/5] 2BT_E_K02_P [5/5] 2BT_E_K04_P [5/5]
Type Description Codes of the learning outcomes of the module to which assessment is related
Continuous assessment of practical skills [2BT_E_55_w_1]
Estimating the student skills when using the laboratory equipment, assessing behaviour, and compliance with safety rules. Evaluation of the basic understanding of the scientific methods and student's ability to draw conclusions based on various experimental data. Preparation for classes and active participation in debates.
 2BT_E_55_3 2BT_E_55_4 2BT_E_55_5 2BT_E_55_6 2BT_E_55_7 2BT_E_55_8
Laboratory report [2BT_E_55_w_2]
Group of students prepares short oral presentation of the results and discussion of laboratory experiments.
 2BT_E_55_1 2BT_E_55_2 2BT_E_55_3 2BT_E_55_4 2BT_E_55_5 2BT_E_55_6 2BT_E_55_7 2BT_E_55_8
Final test [2BT_E_55_w_3]
Single-choice test questions and short questions.
 2BT_E_55_3 2BT_E_55_4 2BT_E_55_5 2BT_E_55_6
The written exam [2BT_E_55_w_4]
The exam consists of essay questions
 2BT_E_55_1 2BT_E_55_2 2BT_E_55_3 2BT_E_55_4 2BT_E_55_5 2BT_E_55_6
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_E_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.
 35 Laboratory report [2BT_E_55_w_2] The written exam [2BT_E_55_w_4]
laboratory classes [2BT_E_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. Possibility of consultations: Clarification or discussion on material from the lectures and assistance in the preparation of the report.
 35
Reading instructions, planning and basic understanding of the scientific method, preparation of report, recognition of the biodegradable plastics market.
 40 Continuous assessment of practical skills [2BT_E_55_w_1] Laboratory report [2BT_E_55_w_2] Final test [2BT_E_55_w_3]
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)