Biodefense & Infectious Disease Laboratory Methods

4 Credits.

This laboratory course introduces students to the methods and techniques used for biothreat detection, surveillance, and identification. Using bio simulants and demonstrations, various bio detection platforms will be discussed and presented, such as point-of-detection devices and methods, laboratory-based screening and identification technologies (culture, quantitative PCR, immunoassays, biosensors), and high-throughput environmental surveillance methods. Statistical methods for determining diagnostic sensitivity and specificity and assay validity will be discussed. Laboratory practices and procedures for working in simulated Biosafety Level 2 and 3 environments will be practiced. Students will be introduced to the current bioinformatics genomic and proteomic databases used for select agent (category A, B, and C) identification and characterization. Prerequisites: 410.603 Advanced Cell Biology, 410.615 Microbiology, or approval of academic advisor.