Course: Analytical Microbiology 11:126:486

Normally Offered: (each) spring semester; Dr. Max Haggblom and Dr. Diane Davis

Prerequisites and other registration instructions: 11:126:394 or 01:447:394; 01:447:390

Format: One 80 minutes lecture per week, one 4.5 - hour lab; one 80-min recitation

Description: The course"Analytical Microbiology" is intended to provide hands-on training in the use of analytical instrumentation in microbiological research and applications. Research in all areas of microbiology relies heavily on analytical instrumentation; whether it is the analysis of microbial fermentation products, biotransformations, biodegradation of biocides and other recalcitrant chemicals, or the analysis of chemical markers for use in identification and taxonomy of microorganisms. The course will combine lectures and laboratory experiments with training in the use of analytical instrumentation, including gas chromatography, GC-mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography (HPLC), ion chromatography, and PCR methods. Laboratory experiments will include analytical applications in 1) biotransformations and fermentations, 2) biodegradation of environmental pollutants and 3) rapid-high throughput methods for identification of bacteria and fungi. This course will serve as an introduction to chromatographic analysis, basic principles of mass spectrometry, and review different choices of methods and instruments. This includes familiarization with different analytical software and methods of data analysis and interpretation.

The course is targeted at students in their junior/senior year majoring in biotechnology, and is intended to provide them with analytical skills needed in independent research projects that they may be pursuing in their senior year. The analytical laboratory will also be used for the training of graduate students and post-doctoral associates.