Advances in Environmental Microbiomes (ENST90047)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 2
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Microorganisms, ubiquitous in diverse environments on Earth, play a pivotal role in multiple ecosystem functions and services through their interactions with a complex environment and other organisms. This subject will introduce students to recent advances in environmental microbiomes across a spectrum of ecosystems on Earth, including terrestrial, marine, agricultural, urban, natural, engineered, built and extreme environments, as well as their connectivity with animal, human and plant microbiomes. We will explore latest knowledge and applications on the microbiome spanning agricultural advances, environmental outcomes, sustainable food production, plant/animal/human health, microbiome engineering, and bioinformatic innovation. This subject aims to equip students not only with a foundational understanding of microbiomes but also with practical skills to contribute to global solutions and address pressing challenges. 

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Critique the significance of microbiomes in terms of diversity, and structure in diverse ecosystems across spatial and temporal scales.
  • Synthesise a range of microbiological technologies to investigate the composition and dynamics of microbiomes in various ecosystems.
  • Evaluate the complexity and importance of environmental microbiomes and their connections with human and ecosystem health and climate change.
  • Demonstrate how fundamental knowledge of environmental microbiomes is critical to innovative solutions for sustainable practices such as environmental conservation and agricultural production.

Generic skills

  • Problem-solving skills: the ability to derive, interpret and analyse information from primary and other sources.
  • Collaborative skills: capacity to participate effectively as a member of a team.
  • Time management skills: capacity to plan work, use time effectively and manage small projects.
  • Analytical skills: capacity to demonstrate independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning and research.
  • Communication skills: capacity to demonstrate the oral and written communication skills necessary to effectively present information to the scientific community.

Last updated: 4 March 2025