Molecular and microbial ecology: from theory to practice
Course description
This course explores how microorganisms shape and sustain ecosystems using modern molecular tools such as DNA sequencing and bioinformatics. You will learn how microbes interact with animals and plants, drive key processes like nutrient cycling and ecosystem resilience, and how molecular methods can reveal their hidden roles in nature. Through lectures, lab work, computer analyses, project presentations, and study visits, you will gain both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience in applying molecular ecology to real-world challenges in sustainable agriculture, environmental monitoring, and biodiversity conservation.
Entry Requirements
- 120 credits in a field of study within natural science
- 60 credits in biology
- 5 credits microbiology
- 5 credits ecology
- a level of English equivalent to upper-secondary-school English (Engelska 6)
Course facts
BI1479, Molecular and microbial ecology: from theory to practice, 15.0 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: PN-O, 2025-12-12
Valid from : Spring semester 2027 (2027-01-18)
Level
Second cycle (A1N)
Main field of study
Biology
Biology Area
Ecology
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
English
Entry Requirements
- 120 credits in a field of study within natural science
- 60 credits in biology
- 5 credits microbiology
- 5 credits ecology
- a level of English equivalent to upper-secondary-school English (Engelska 6)
Objectives
The aim of this course is to provide knowledge of molecular and microbial ecology and the use of molecular methods, approaches and applications in basic ecological and environmental science questions, as well as how molecular methods can be used to solve current challenges related to sustainable food production, water quality, environmental monitoring and biodiversity conservation. The students are also trained in scientific methodology through literature studies and seminars where scientific articles are discussed with experts in the field, and hands-on computer exercises involving analysis of data they generate during the course.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to
- Account for and discuss key concepts in molecular and microbial ecology
- Describe and explain molecular-level interactions between microorganisms and their biotic and abiotic environment
- Explain the role of microorganisms for the functioning of ecosystems and discuss possible environmental applications
- Critically evaluate and justify the selection of appropriate molecular methods for identifying, quantifying, and functionally characterizing organisms and communities, and synthesize insights to propose and assess potential applications
- Apply molecular laboratory techniques commonly used in molecular and microbial ecology, and critically evaluate the validity of the results
- Interpret graphical and statistical representations of molecular data in ecological studies, and critically appraise their validity and limitations
Content
Subject-related content
The course covers
- Introduction to molecular ecology and evolution
- Molecular methods in ecology, with emphasis on study design, laboratory techniques, bioinformatics and biostatistics
- Molecular approaches to unravel key ecological concepts, for example: links between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, ecological niches, resistance and resilience to environmental disturbances
- Analyses of biotic interactions in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems using molecular methods: microbial interactions with plants, animals and other microorganisms, as well as trophic interactions within food webs and metabolic networks
- Anthropogenic impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, monitored by molecular methods
- Applications of methods in molecular and microbial ecology, for example: agriculture, environmental monitoring, food webs, climate mitigation, animal health and probiotics, conservation biology, waste and water treatment
Teaching formats
To foster student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used: lectures, seminars, literature studies, laboratory sessions, study visits and project work.
The course focuses on the following generic competencies: critical thinking, scientific methodology and oral and written presentations.
The following activities are mandatory: laboratory sessions, seminars, study visits, and oral presentations of the project work.
Collaboration with the surrounding community takes place through study visits and guest lecturers.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
- Oral and written presentation of project work - Approved participation in compulsory components - Written laboratory report - Written examination
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology
Supplementary information
Included in program
- Crop Production (BSc)
- Agriculture Programme - Soil/Plant
Module set
| Title | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Written final examination of theoretical course content based on lectures and literature | 5.0 | 0001 |
| Participation in laboratory exercises and written report | 5.0 | 0002 |
| Participation in literature discussions and study visits | 2.0 | 0003 |
| Participation in project work including oral and written presentation | 3.0 | 0004 |
The Course Replaces
BI1438
Other Information
The entry requirements in microbiology and ecology can, for example, be fulfilled through the courses Genetics, Cell Biology and Microbiology (BI1278), Ecology (BI1252).