Microbial biotechnology Field of study: Biotechnology
Programme code: 01-S2BTA14.2019

Module name: Microbial biotechnology
Module code: 2BT_E_13
Programme code: 01-S2BTA14.2019
Semester:
  • winter semester 2020/2021
  • winter semester 2019/2020
Language of instruction: English
Form of verification: exam
ECTS credits: 7
Description:
The course focuses on the vast array of applications of microorganisms in microbial biotechnology. The course will cover an 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. Isolated microorganisms will be tested for the degradation activity of petroleum hydrocarbons and emulsification activity. The capability of commercially used strain Leuconostoc mesenteroides to produce dextran will be estimated. 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:
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_13_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 classifies the xenobiotic. Describes the mechanisms of their microbial transformation in the environment. [2BT_E_13_2]
 2BT_E_W03_P [5/5] 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_13_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_13_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_13_5]
 2BT_E_U03_P [3/5]
Student rates and evaluates methods used in assessing the biodegradability of polymeric waste. [2BT_E_13_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_13_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]
Students will gain experience in effective communication skills by practicing, listening and speaking clearly. Respect the safety rules when working with microorganisms. [2BT_E_13_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_13_w_1]
Estimation of the student's skills when using the laboratory equipment, assessment of behaviour and respecting the safety rules for the entire laboratory. Evaluation of the basic understanding of the scientific methods and observation of performance of the experiment and student’s ability to draw conclusions.
 2BT_E_13_3 2BT_E_13_4 2BT_E_13_5 2BT_E_13_6 2BT_E_13_7 2BT_E_13_8
Laboratory report [2BT_E_13_w_2]
Student along with group of collaborators prepares short oral presentation of 15 minutes presenting the results and discussion of laboratory experiments.
 2BT_E_13_1 2BT_E_13_2 2BT_E_13_3 2BT_E_13_4 2BT_E_13_5 2BT_E_13_6 2BT_E_13_7 2BT_E_13_8
Final test [2BT_E_13_w_3]
Single-choice test questions and short questions.
 2BT_E_13_3 2BT_E_13_4 2BT_E_13_5 2BT_E_13_6
The written exam [2BT_E_13_w_4]
The exam consisted of essay questions will be given at the end of the semester.
 2BT_E_13_1 2BT_E_13_2 2BT_E_13_3 2BT_E_13_4 2BT_E_13_5 2BT_E_13_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_13_fs_1]
Multimedia lecture.
 30
Memorising and describing the material from the lectures, assessing basic sources of information and how to evaluate and use this information.
 45 Laboratory report [2BT_E_13_w_2] The written exam [2BT_E_13_w_4]
laboratory classes [2BT_E_13_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 consultation: Clarification or discussion on material from the lectures and assistance in the preparation of the report.
 60
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_13_w_1] Laboratory report [2BT_E_13_w_2] Final test [2BT_E_13_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)