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Microbiology in Agriculture (AGRI20039)
Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
- Overview
- Eligibility and requirements
- Assessment
- Dates and times
- Further information
- Timetable(opens in new window)
Contact information
Semester 1
Overview
Availability | Semester 1 |
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Fees | Look up fees |
This subject introduces students to the diverse world of microbiology and the roles that microorganisms play in all aspects of agriculture, including animal, plant and soil science. The basic structure and biology of microorganisms will be covered, with a focus on bacteria, viruses and fungi. Aspects of molecular biology and genetics will also be introduced. The role that microorganisms play within the environment, in particular relating to plant, animal and soil health, will also be considered. The use of microorganisms in agricultural biotechnology is also discussed, including examples such as genetic modification of plants and the use of microorganisms in the expression of recombinant proteins.
Intended learning outcomes
- Understand and accurately apply terminology used in the field of microbiology, and understand the fundamental differences between different types of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions and protozoa
- Describe the structure and biology of bacterial cells, including the arrangement and replication of genetic material, and understand the concept of virulence and virulence factors.
- Describe the structure and function of fungi
- Understand the fundamental concepts of virus structure and replication
- Explain how microorganisms may be detected within various environments, including how they may be cultivated within the laboratory setting, and molecular methods of detection.
- Be able to carry out basic laboratory techniques related to microbiology and molecular biology
- Explain the various relationships microorganisms have with their environments, including pathogenic, symbiotic and commensal lifestyles
- Understand and explain how microorganisms may be utilised in agricultural biotechnology, including specific techniques such as cloning and expression of genes using microorganisms.
- Explain how microorganisms can be genetically modified, and give examples of how this is useful in agricultural industries
- Give examples of specific microorganisms important to animals, plants and soil ecosystems, and explain why these microorganisms are significant
Generic skills
A student who satisfactorily completes this subject should be able to:
- Explain their understanding of microbiology as it relates to agriculture, both in writing and orally
- Review and evaluate readings relating to microbiology and agricultural production
- Participate as an effective member of a group in workshop discussions, and study groups
- Think independently and analytically, and direct his or her own learning; and
- Manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular classes, tests and the examination
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
---|---|---|---|
BIOL10004 | Biology of Cells and Organisms | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Assessment
Additional details
- 4 quizzes worth 5% each delivered in practicals or workshops throughout the semester (20%)
- 1-hour intra-semester test held approximately week 6 or 7 (20%)
- 2-hour end-of-semester examination (60%)
Hurdle requirement: Students must attend a minimum 90% of scheduled workshops/practical classes
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Dates & times
- Semester 1
Principal coordinator James Gilkerson Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 42 hours. 36 hours of lectures and 16 hours of practicals or workshops Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 27 February 2017 to 28 May 2017 Last self-enrol date 10 March 2017 Census date 31 March 2017 Last date to withdraw without fail 5 May 2017 Assessment period ends 23 June 2017 Semester 1 contact information
Time commitment details
170 hours
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Further information
- Texts
Prescribed texts
There are no specifically prescribed or recommended texts for this subject.
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Major Production Animal Science Major Plant and Soil Science Major Agricultural Economics - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
Last updated: 3 November 2022