BI1440, Genetics, Cell Biology and Microbiology, 15.0 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: Jon Petter Gustafsson, 2022-12-09
Valid from : Autumn semester 2023 (2023-08-28)

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Biology

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

Swedish

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The course aims at giving basic knowledge and laboratory training in Genetics, Cell Biology and Microbiology. The students will acquire knowledge of the basic principles in genetics, cell structure and function as well as the biology of microorganisms.

After completion of the course students are expected to be able to:

• describe the cellular structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms and list the main differences between these two groups
• describe organization, communication and function of the eukaryotic cell
• describe how genetic material is transferred between cells and generations
• analyze different types of inheritance, gene order and linkage between genes
• analyze the genetic variation within and between populations and evaluate natural processes affecting the population genetic structure
• calculate heritability of traits and the effect of selection
• describe the fundamental physiology, metabolism, genetics and ecology of microorganisms
• superficially describe the classification and systematics of microorganisms
• superficially describe the underlying theory and methodology of basic laboratory techniques within genetics, cell biology and microbiology
• analyze and interpret laboratory data from experiments within genetics, cell biology and microbiology
• search and evaluate scientific information based on a scientific question
• write a report based on experimental results

Content

The course content is covered in lectures, compulsory group exercises and laboratory practicals where the laboratory training is an important part of the course. Course topics include:

• structure, function and morphology of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells as well as viruses
• the flow of genetic information: DNA-replication, RNA-synthesis, RNA-splicing and protein synthesis
• biological membranes, transport mechanisms and communication within and among cells
• cell division and formation of sex cells
• inheritance theory of Mendel and its extension
• genetic recombination and linkage analysis
• mutations
• population genetics and conservation of genetic diversity
• quantitative genetics
• microbial cell structure, physiology, metabolism, genetics and growth
• the impact of microorganisms on biogeochemical cycles as well as their ecological interactions between each other and with macroscopic organisms
• methods for the isolation, cultivation and characterization of microorganisms
• methods for disinfection and sterilization
• antimicrobial substances and the development of resistance
• microbial systematics and taxonomy
• information retrieval and written presentation of experimental data

The course focuses on the following general competencies:

group dynamics and self-development, communication, information literacy, critical thinking and ethics.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed written examinations, approved participation in compulsory laboratory practicals with oral and written reports and approved participation in compulsory exercises. - If the student fails a test, the examiner may give the student a supplementary assignment, provided this is possible and there is reason to do so. - If the student has been granted special educational support because of a disability, the examiner has the right to offer the student an adapted test, or provide an alternative assessment. - If changes are made to this course syllabus, or if the course is closed, SLU shall decide on transitional rules for examination of students admitted under this syllabus but who have not yet passed the course.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Plant Biology

Cooperating departments

Department of Molecular Sciences

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Biology and Environmental Science - Bachelor's Programme
• Crop Production (BSc)
• Agricultural Science with a Specialisation in Plant and Soil Sciences

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Genetics and Cell Biology, exam	8.0	0001
Genetics and Cell Biology, written assignments and group exercises	1.0	0002
Microbiology, exam	4.0	0003
Microbiology, written assignments	2.0	0004

The Course Replaces

BI1278 Genetics, Cell Biology and Microbiology

Other Information

The right to take part in teaching and/or supervision only applies to the course date to which the student has been admitted and registered on.

If there are special reasons, the student may take part in course components that require compulsory attendance at a later date. For more information on this, please refer to the regulations for education at Bachelor's and Master's level.

The prior knowledge requirements can be met by e.g. having attended the courses Fundamentals in Chemistry I, 15 credits (KE0062) and Fundamentals in Chemistry II, 7.5 credits (KE0063) with at least 10 credits passed. Course parts with a passing grade must contain at least 5 credits in Biochemistry.

Some course elements may be conducted in English.