Environmental Microbiology
Summary
- Type of degree
- MSc
- Subjects
- Biogeosciences
Energy, Resources and the Environment - Location
- Aberdeen, United Kingdom of Great Britain – England, Scotland, Wales
- Course language
- English
- Website
- http://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/courses/postgraduate/taught/env_micro/
Description
The programme begins with a course on core molecular technologies, as well as statistical analysis & experimental design. This is followed by courses covering the concepts that are important in environmental microbiology, microbial ecology and biotechnology. Particular emphasis in these courses is placed on the application of molecular biology to microbial ecology, marker & reporter gene technologies and the use of genetically modified microorganisms in the environment. Further courses cover the biology & ecology of mycorrhizas, as well as biodegradation / bioremediation and remediation technologies.
Courses are delivered by a combination of lectures, lab practicals, field trips and tutorials. There are visits to local research institutes and guest lectures, as well as a residential field trip. The final 4 months of the MSc programme are dedicated to carrying out a research project that provides training in technical skills, recording results and observations, and analysis of results, as well as writing a manuscript for a scientific journal.