CEG2607 : Geomicrobiology
- Offered for Year: 2022/23
- Module Leader(s): Dr Jon Telling
- Lecturer: Professor Neil Gray
- Owning School: Natural and Environmental Sciences
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
Aims
The aims of this unit are to -
Introduce microorganisms and their study,
Introduce microbial processes of environmental and geochemical significance and
Provide detailed information on the most up to date methods for the study of microbial communities.
Introduce the analysis of microbial data sets.
The module introduces microbiology and microorganisms and explores their role in shaping the geochemistry of the Earth.
A survey of modern microorganisms and their activities of environmental and geochemical importance is an important foundation for the module as is the way that metabolic processes catalyzed by microorganisms are related to major elemental cycles, biogeochemical processes and contamination. The most up to date molecular methods used to study the diversity and activity of microorganisms in their natural habitats are detailed along with their benefits and limitations. The course is examined by unseen examination and a laboratory report assessment.
Outline Of Syllabus
Introduction to Geomicrobiology
Diversity of microbial life
Controls on microbial activity and abundance
Geomicrobiology as a driver of global elemental cycles
Microbial processes of environmental significance
Metabolic diversity of microorganisms
Methods to study microorganisms
Applied geomicrobiology
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 10 | 0:30 | 5:00 | Asynchronous online. |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 38:00 | 38:00 | Preparation and completion of report |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 15:00 | 15:00 | Preparation and completion of group presentation |
| Structured Guided Learning | Structured research and reading activities | 15 | 1:00 | 15:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Skills practice | 2 | 1:00 | 2:00 | online formative tests |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 4 | 1:00 | 4:00 | Present in Person wokshops |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 3 | 2:00 | 6:00 | Computer cluster workshops |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 15:00 | 15:00 | Background reading |
| Total | 100:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Students will be taught through online lectures where they will acquire an understanding of the evolutionary and metabolic diversity of the microbial world and how it relates to biogeochemical processes including microbial degradation of contaminants. They will also gain detailed knowledge of how biological processes and microorganisms are measured and characterized in the environment. Through the practical class component of the course where they will not only gain an understanding of bacteria “in action” and bacterial activity but will demonstrate that they can analyse extensive data sets gathered during these practicals. The formative group presentation will increase skills and confidence in researching information and presenting in front of an audience.
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Report | 2 | M | 100 | Written Report (1200 words max) |
Formative Assessments
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Presentation | 2 | M | Formative group presentation |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
Report write up is to test students' ability to analyse data and write conclusions based upon the information obtained during the practical sessions. The formative group presentation will test the students' ability to research and critically assess a state-of-the-art geomicrobiology topic and present it clearly to an audience.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- CEG2607's Timetable