BIOL 5221 Molecular Microbial Ecology

(2-2-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2180 or BIOL 4180. An exploration of the extent of biodiversity in the microbial world and the functions of microorganisms in the global ecosystem. An emphasis will be placed on detection of bacteria using molecular techniques. Current methods used in microbial community assessment including PCR, DNA hybridization, 16S rRNA sequencing and in situ-PCR will be presented. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.