The methods and strategies for genetic manipulation of prokaryotes--both bacteria and archaea--with an emphasis on primary literature. Classes will consist of discussions of both classic and current articles that describe the development of genetic methods for both well characterized and relatively uncharacterized microbes and the use of genetics as a tool to study cellular processes.

Research techniques in microbiology for graduate students in preparation for their thesis/dissertation projects.

Microbial ecology, diversity, physiology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, or pathogenesis. Specific topic depends on instructor.

Physiological aspects of prokaryotic diversity. Principles of bioenergetics; fermentation pathways, including TCA cycle, glycolysis, substrate level phosphorylation, and ion pumps; aerobic and anaerobic respiration; photosynthesis, autotrophy; and aerobic and anaerobic xenobiotic degradation.

Topics include Quantitative Biostatistics, Quantitative Protein Biochemistry and Macromolecule Analysis, and Introduction to Proposal Writing, Reviewing and Publishing. Students may elect to take an approved Statistics or Bioinformatics course instead of the Quantitative Biostatistics segment.

Global status, epidemiology and control of parasitic, viral, and bacterial diseases of major public health importance. Emphasis will be on the scientific, policy, and economic aspects of past, current, and future public health approaches to deal with these globally challenging infectious diseases from multiple and integrative perspectives.

Offered summer semester every even-numbered year.

This course presents a comprehensive introduction to the field of Microbiology, including key concepts and current research emphasis.

Students will present their experimental research on the diversity of bacteria and archaea, including physiology, genetics, ecology, and taxonomy.

Taken each Fall and Spring (at least 8 times prior to graduation).

Techniques involved in effective seminar presentation, including preparation of visual aids, logical development of topic, and delivery. Students present a practice session to the class on an advanced microbiology topic which is videotaped and critiqued, as well as a formal seminar to the department.

Each section will cover a different topic in Microbiology through discussions of current peer-reviewed literature. Students may instead elect to participate in approved journal clubs offered by another department or center.

Taken each Fall and Spring (at least 8x prior to graduation)