Microbes in the Environment

Examines the diversity of microbial life in the environment. Surveys key services that microbes perform on land and sea, including biodegradation of contaminants in the environment and ecosystem processes related to climate change. Examines biological interactions of symbioses, quorum sensing, and antibiotic production in a ecological context. Explores the genomic mechanisms explaining phylogeny and life history strategies in microbes. Demonstrate knowledge of the diversity of microbes in the environment and benefits in an ecological/evolutionary context. Lecture based, two fieldtrips to expand appreciation for microbial ecology. BIOL 0200 or equivalent placement; CHEM 0330 . Enrollment limited to 20 sophomores, juniors and seniors.