A week-long block course taught from 21.07.2019 to 27.07.2019 at the Alpine Biology Center, Val di Piora (TI). Participation is limited, and the course carries a fee of CHF 400.- for food and lodging, payable in advance.
The field course "Microbial Ecology" allows students to learn state-of-the-art methods used to study microbial structures and functions in natural habitats. The course includes lectures, field and laboratory work, excursions, and student presentations of the collected data. The focus will be on alpine habitats including microbial mats, alpine wetlands, and stratified Lake Cadagno.
Learning objective
Characterization of microbial structures and functions in natural habitats by using state-of-the-art molecular, chemical and physical tools.
Content
The field course is taught at the alpine research station in Val Piora (TI). The methods to be addressed include flux measurements, microsensors, determination of depth profiles, microbiological techniques, etc. The students will also learn to take samples in aquatic and terrestrial systems.
Lecture notes
Handouts will be provided during the course.
Literature
M.T. Madigan, J.M. Martinko, P.V. Dunlap & J. Parker "Brock Biology of Microorganisms", Pearson
Prerequisites / Notice
The course is taught from 21.07.2019 - 27.07.2019. The course fee for students is CHF 400.-, which includes the cost for housing, food, and equipment.
Performance assessment
Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course