University of Sydney Handbooks - 2017 Archive

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Table 1: Microbiology

Errata
Item Errata Date
1

The Pre-requsites have changed for the following units:

MICR2922 Microbes in Society (Advanced): Pre-requisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX)
09/02/2017

Table 1 lists units of study available to students in the Bachelor of Science and combined degrees. The units are available to students enrolled in other degrees in accordance with their degree resolutions.

Unit of study Credit points A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition Session

Microbiology

For a major in Microbiology, the minimum requirement is 24 credit points from senior units of study listed below.
Intermediate units of study
MICR2021
Microbial Life
6    P 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX
N MICR2001 or MICR2011 or MICR2007 or MICR2003 or MICR2921 or MICR2909 or MICR2901 or MICR2024 orBMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808


Students are very strongly recommended to complete (MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024) before enrolling in MICR2022 in Semester 2.
Semester 1
MICR2921
Microbial Life (Advanced)
6    P 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1001)
N MICR2001 or MICR2007 or MICR2011 or MICR2003 or MICR2901 or MICR2021 or MICR2024 or MICR2909 orBMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808


Students are very strongly advised to complete (MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024) before enrolling in MICR2022 or MICR2922 in Semester 2.
Semester 1
MICR2022
Microbes in Society
6    A MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024
P 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX
N MICR2012 or MICR2909 or MICR2008 or MICR2004 or MICR2002 or MICR2902 or MICR2922 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808


Students are very strongly advised to complete MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024 before enrolling in MICR2022 in Semester 2. For progression on to Senior Microbiology units, students must also complete MBLG1001 or MBLG1901 or MBLG1991 or PLNT2001 or PLNT2901. This unit is not available to BMedSc students.
Semester 2
MICR2922
Microbes in Society (Advanced)
6    A MICR2021 or MBLG2921 or MICR2024
P 12cp from BIOL1XXX and 6cp from CHEM1XXX and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX,MBLG1XXX)
N MICR2022 or MICR2004 or MICR2008 or MICR2902 or MICR2002 or MICR2909 or MICR2012 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808


Students are very strongly advised to complete MICR2021 or MBLG2921 or MICR2024 before enrolling in MICR2922 in Semester 2. For progression on to Senior Microbiology units, students must also complete MBLG1001 or MBLG1901 or MBLG1991 or PLNT2001 or PLNT2901. This unit is not available to BMedSc students.
Semester 2
MICR2024
Microbes in the Environment
6    P 12cp from (AGEN1004, MBLG1XXX, BIOL1XXX)
N MICR2021 or MICR2022 or MICR2921 or MICR2922
Semester 2
Senior units of study
MICR3011
Microbes in Infection
6    P [6cp from (BIOL1XX7, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X] OR [GENE2002 and 6cp from MICR2X22]
N MICR3001 or MICR3911 or MICR3901
Semester 1
MICR3911
Microbes in Infection (Advanced)
6    P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and 6cp from BMED240X and a mark of 75 or above in BMED2404] OR [6cp from (GENE2002, MICR2X22) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (GENE2002, MICR2X22)]
N MICR3001 or MICR3011 or MICR3901
Semester 1
MICR3032
Cellular and Molecular Microbiology
6    A MICR2021
P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X] OR [MICR2024 and GENE2002]
N MICR3932
Semester 2
MICR3932
Cellular and Molecular Microbiology (Adv)
6    P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X and (a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from BMED2401 or BMED2404)] OR [MICR2024 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from GENE2002]
N MICR3032
Semester 2
MICR3042
Microbiology Research Skills
6    P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp of BMED240X] OR [MICR2024 and GENE2002]
N MICR3942 or MICR3022 or MICR3922
Semester 2
MICR3942
Microbiology Research Skills (Adv)
6    P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (MICR2X21, MICR2X22, MICR3X11)] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BMED2401 or BMED2404)] OR [MICR2024 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from GENE2002].
N MICR3022 or MICR3922 or MICR3042
Semester 2
VIRO3001
Virology
6    A Intermediate Microbiology
P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX, GENE2XXX)] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X] OR [GENE2002 and MICR2024]
N VIRO3901


Students are very strongly advised to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3002 or VIRO3902.
Semester 1
VIRO3901
Virology (Advanced)
6    A Intermediate Microbiology
P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX, GENE2XXX)] OR [BMED2401 and 6cp from BMED240X and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from BMED2404] OR [GENE2002 and MICR2024 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (GENE2002, MICR2024)]
N VIRO3001


Students are very strongly advised to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3002 or VIRO3902.
Semester 1
VIRO3002
Medical and Applied Virology
6    A Intermediate microbiology, immunology, molecular biology and genetics.
P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX, GENE2XXX)] OR [ BMED2401 and BMED2404 and (6cp from BMED240X)] OR [GENE2002 and MICR2024]
N VIRO3902


Students are strongly encouraged to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3002.
Semester 2
VIRO3902
Medical and Applied Virology (Advanced)
6    P [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX or GENE2XXX)] OR [ BMED2401 and (a mark of 75 or above in BMED2404) and (6cp from BMED240X)]
N VIRO3002


Students are strongly encouraged to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3902.
Semester 2

Microbiology

For a major in Microbiology, the minimum requirement is 24 credit points from senior units of study listed below.
Intermediate units of study
MICR2021 Microbial Life

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dee Carter, Dr Leona Campbell Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, plus an additional six 1-hour tutorials per semester. Eleven 3-hour practicals per semester. Laboratory classes teach the safe handling and viewing of microrganisms. We study how they live and grow in various environments, and how we can manipulate them to make useful products for us through gene cloning. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX Prohibitions: MICR2001 or MICR2011 or MICR2007 or MICR2003 or MICR2921 or MICR2909 or MICR2901 or MICR2024 orBMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam (60%). Practical component comprises continuous performance assessment, one prac-based assignment, one MCQ quiz, and an in-semester practical exam (40%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are very strongly recommended to complete (MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024) before enrolling in MICR2022 in Semester 2.
Microorganisms are by far the most ubiquitous organisms on the planet, and underpin healthy ecosystems through nutrient recycling and biodegradation, as well as providing many aspects of plant and animal nutrition. They are used in many industrial processes such as producing enzymes, vitamins and antibiotics, and in the manufacture of some foods and beverages. Microorganisms can also cause problems, however, such as human, animal and plant diseases, poisoning, pollution and spoilage. The small size of most microrganisms means special techniques are required to view, measure, classify and identify them. In this unit of study, the diversity of microbial life, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae and protozoa, and their importance to humans, are introduced, and we look at how microbes interact with us, each other, plants and animals. Microbial nutrition, physiology and genetics are also introduced. The course is designed for students wishing to major in microbiology as well as those requiring microbial skills while specializing in related fields, such as molecular biology.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 9th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2013.
MICR2921 Microbial Life (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dee Carter Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, plus seven tutorials. Eleven 3-hour practicals per semester. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1001) Prohibitions: MICR2001 or MICR2007 or MICR2011 or MICR2003 or MICR2901 or MICR2021 or MICR2024 or MICR2909 orBMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam (60%). Practical component comprises continuous performance assessment, one prac-based assignment, one MCQ quiz, and an in-semester practical exam (40%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are very strongly advised to complete (MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024) before enrolling in MICR2022 or MICR2922 in Semester 2.
This unit of study is based on MICR2021 with replacement of some material to explore some more advanced aspects of introductory microbiology (lecture and tutorial). The content and nature of this component is based on current topics in microbiology and may vary from year to year. This advanced material is assessed in the form of short answer questions in the end of semester exam.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 9th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2013.
MICR2022 Microbes in Society

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Helen Agus, Dr Leona Campbell Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, plus an additional four 1-hour tutorials per semester. Eleven 3-hour practicals per semester Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX Prohibitions: MICR2012 or MICR2909 or MICR2008 or MICR2004 or MICR2002 or MICR2902 or MICR2922 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 Assumed knowledge: MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024 Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam, continuous assessment in practicals, two assignments, two quizzes, practical assessment exercises (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are very strongly advised to complete MICR2021 or MICR2921 or MICR2024 before enrolling in MICR2022 in Semester 2. For progression on to Senior Microbiology units, students must also complete MBLG1001 or MBLG1901 or MBLG1991 or PLNT2001 or PLNT2901. This unit is not available to BMedSc students.
Pathogenic microbes cause infectious diseases of humans, animals and plants, and inflict enormous suffering and economic losses. Beneficial microbes are important contributors to food production, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental processes. The aims of MICR2022/2922 are to explore the impacts and applications of microbes in human society and in the environment at large, and to teach skills and specialist knowledge in several key areas of microbiology. Medical Microbiology lectures will cover bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens, and will introduce the concepts of epidemiology, transmission, pathogenicity, virulence factors, host/parasite relationships, host defences, prevention of disease, and antibiotic types, functions, and resistance. Lecture topics in other areas include Food (preservation, spoilage, poisoning, industrial context), Industrial (fermentation, traditional and recombinant products, bioprospecting), Environmental (nutrient cycles, atmosphere, wastewater, pollution, biodegradation) and Agricultural (nitrogen fixation, plant pathogens, biocontrol) microbiology. The laboratory sessions are integrated with the lecture series and are designed to give students practical experience in isolating, identifying and manipulating live potentially pathogenic microorganisms.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 9th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2013.
MICR2922 Microbes in Society (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Helen Agus, Dr Leona Campbell Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, plus an additional four 1-hour tutorials, three 1-hour seminars and eleven 3-hour practicals per semester. Prerequisites: 12cp from BIOL1XXX and 6cp from CHEM1XXX and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX,MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: MICR2022 or MICR2004 or MICR2008 or MICR2902 or MICR2002 or MICR2909 or MICR2012 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2404 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 Assumed knowledge: MICR2021 or MBLG2921 or MICR2024 Assessment: One 2-hour theory exam, continuous assessment in practicals, assignment, two quizzes, practical assessment exercises, essay (100%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are very strongly advised to complete MICR2021 or MBLG2921 or MICR2024 before enrolling in MICR2922 in Semester 2. For progression on to Senior Microbiology units, students must also complete MBLG1001 or MBLG1901 or MBLG1991 or PLNT2001 or PLNT2901. This unit is not available to BMedSc students.
This unit of study is based on MICR2022. A science communication exercise is unique to MICR2922 and consists of three small group sessions exploring how recent advances in microbiology are communicated to the wider public. This advanced component replaces one assignment exercise from the practical class and is assessed as short essay. The content and nature of this component is based on recent publications with potential high impact for society.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 9th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2013.
MICR2024 Microbes in the Environment

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Michael Kertesz Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lec, 3h prac/wk Prerequisites: 12cp from (AGEN1004, MBLG1XXX, BIOL1XXX) Prohibitions: MICR2021 or MICR2022 or MICR2921 or MICR2922 Assessment: 1 x 2hr exam (60%), 4 x quizzes (15%), lab skills assessment (5%) and 1 x lab project report (20%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit introduces the diversity of microbes found in soil, water, air, plants and animal environments. Through an examination of their physiology and genetics it explores their interactions with plants, animals and each other, and their roles as decomposers and recyclers in the environment. The soil is a rich microbial environment, and the concept of soil health and its relationship to plant growth is discussed. Practical classes introduce techniques and skills in isolating, quantifying and culturing microbes, designing and interpreting experiments to study microbial growth, and in preparing and presenting data.
Textbooks
Willey et al. Prescott's Microbiology. 9th edition. McGraw-Hill. 2013.
Senior units of study
MICR3011 Microbes in Infection

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Helen Agus Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, eight 3-hour practical sessions and three 2-hour clinical tutorials per semester Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XX7, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X] OR [GENE2002 and 6cp from MICR2X22] Prohibitions: MICR3001 or MICR3911 or MICR3901 Assessment: Theory: One 2-hour exam (60%) and formative assessment; In-semester: presentations, discussion facilitation, quiz, prac assessment (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit is designed to further develop an interest in, and understanding of, medical microbiology from the introduction in Intermediate Microbiology. Through an examination of microbial structure, virulence, body defences and pathogenesis, the process of acquisition and establishment of disease is covered. The unit is divided into three themes: 1. Clinical Microbiology: host defences, infections, virulence mechanisms; 2. Public health microbiology: epidemiology, international public health, transmission, water and food borne outbreaks; 3. Emerging and re-emerging diseases: the impact of societal change with respect to triggering new diseases and causing the re-emergence of past problems, which are illustrated using case studies. The practical component is designed to enhance students' practical skills and to complement the lecture series. In these practical sessions experience will be gained handling live, potentially pathogenic microbes. Clinical tutorial sessions underpin and investigate the application of the material covered in the practical classes.
Textbooks
Murray PR et al. Medical Microbiology. 7th edition. Mosby. 2013.
MICR3911 Microbes in Infection (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Helen Agus Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week including six 1-hour tutorials, eight 3-hour practical sessions and three 2-hour clinical tutorials per semester. Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and 6cp from BMED240X and a mark of 75 or above in BMED2404] OR [6cp from (GENE2002, MICR2X22) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (GENE2002, MICR2X22)] Prohibitions: MICR3001 or MICR3011 or MICR3901 Assessment: Theory: One 2-hour exam (60%), formative assessment; Practical assessment: presentations, discussion facilitation, quiz, prac assessment (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit is available to students who have performed well in Intermediate Microbiology. This unit is designed to further develop an interest in, and understanding of, medical microbiology from the introduction in Intermediate Microbiology. Through an examination of microbial structure, virulence, body defences and pathogenesis, the process of acquisition and establishment of disease is covered. The unit is divided into three themes: 1. Clinical Microbiology: host defences, infections, virulence mechanisms; 2. Public health microbiology: epidemiology, international public health, transmission, water and food borne outbreaks; 3. Emerging and re-emerging diseases: the impact of societal change with respect to triggering new diseases and causing the re-emergence of past problems, which are illustrated using case studies. The unique aspect of this advanced unit that differentiates it from the mainstream unit is six tutorial style sessions that replace six mainstream lectures in the theme 'Emerging and re-emerging diseases'. These dedicated research-led interactive advanced sessions support self-directed learning and involve discussion around specific topics that will vary from year to year. Nominated research papers and reviews in the topic area will be explored with supported discussion of the relevance to and impact of the work on current thinking around emergence of microbial disease. The focus will be on microbial change that lies critically at the centre of understanding the reasons for the emergence of new diseases and challenges in an era of significant scientific ability to diagnose and treat infection. The practical component is identical to the mainstream unit and is designed to enhance students' practical skills and to complement the lectures. In these practical sessions experience will be gained handling live, potentially pathogenic microbes. Clinical tutorial sessions underpin and investigate the application of the material covered in the practical classes.
Textbooks
Murray PR.et al. Medical Microbiology. 7th ed., Mosby, 2013
MICR3032 Cellular and Molecular Microbiology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Nick Coleman Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three lectures per week and one 2-hour prac/tute per week Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X] OR [MICR2024 and GENE2002] Prohibitions: MICR3932 Assumed knowledge: MICR2021 Assessment: Theory (60%): One 1-hour exam (mid semester); one 2-hour exam (end of semester); Prac (40%): One 2-hour exam (open book, mid-semester), one oral presentation (end of semester); one in-prac bioinformatics assessment task, one 1.5 hr bioinformatics prac exam (end of semester) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This Unit of Study introduces students to key concepts in cellular and molecular microbiology. Building on knowledge gained in MICR2021 and MICR2022, as well as MBLG1001, the lectures explore areas of microbial evolution, pathogenesis, physiology, ecology, biotechnology and genetics, with each key theme explored with a series of 6 lectures led by an expert in the field. Lectures will be complemented with practical/tutorial sessions that explore recent research in these areas. The first set of practical/tutorial sessions are small-group sessions led by demonstrators, that are focused on critical interpretation of the scientific literature in the area of host-microbe interactions. The focus is on experimental design, and analysis of the raw data. The second set of pracs are bioinformatics labs, which introduce software such as ORF Finder, BLAST, ClustalX, and TreeView and databases such as NCBI-Nucleotide and KEGG; the aim is to figure out the identity, functions, and biotechnological applications of a mystery piece of microbial DNA. It is recommended that students also take the complementary unit of study MICR3042 or MICR3942.
MICR3932 Cellular and Molecular Microbiology (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Nick Coleman Session: Semester 2 Classes: Three lectures per week and one 2-hour prac/tute per week Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X and (a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from BMED2401 or BMED2404)] OR [MICR2024 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from GENE2002] Prohibitions: MICR3032 Assessment: Theory (60%): One 1-hour theory exam (mid semester); one 2-hour exam (end of semester); Prac (40%): one written assessment task, assessment of website. Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study introduces students to key concepts in cellular and molecular microbiology. Building on knowledge gained in MICR2021 and MICR2022, as well as MBLG1001, the lectures explore areas of microbial evolution, pathogenesis, physiology, ecology, biotechnology and genetics, with each key theme explored with a series of 6 lectures led by an expert in the field.The first set of practical/tutorial sessions are small-group sessions led by an academic, which are focused on critical interpretation of the scientific literature in the area of host-microbe interactions. The focus is on evaluating the scientific significance of published papers, and determining the level of experimental support for key conclusions. The second set of prac sessions teaches the creative presentation of science to both fellow scientists and the public by designing a website around an area of interest in microbiology. It is recommended that students also take the complementary unit of study, MICR3042 or MICR3942.
Textbooks
None
MICR3042 Microbiology Research Skills

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dee Carter Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week from week 1-7. One 4-hour prac per week. Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp of BMED240X] OR [MICR2024 and GENE2002] Prohibitions: MICR3942 or MICR3022 or MICR3922 Assessment: One 1-hour theory exam (40%). One 1-hour theory of prac exam, one 2-hour practical exam, in-lab continuous assessment, one prac report, one short video presentation, one quiz (60%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Research in molecular microbiology is needed to tackle problems in medicine, agriculture, environmental science, and biotechnology. This Unit of Study focuses on developing practical skills and training in experimental approaches and that are essential for laboratory research in molecular microbiology, together with knowledge of the underlying theoretical concepts. We will focus on key areas of modern microbiology including Bioremediation, where micro-organisms are used to break down harmful substrates in the environment; Microbial biotechnology, which explores how microbes can be used as cellular factories to produce useful products; Medical microbiology, where molecular epidemiology is used to track a disease outbreak, and Yeast genetics, where we explore genes and protein interaction networks that cells regulate in their response to antibiotic agents. It is strongly recommended that students also take the complementary unit of study MICR3032 or MICR3932.
MICR3942 Microbiology Research Skills (Adv)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dee Carter Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week from Week 1¿7. Project work equivalent to 4 hours per week. Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from MICR2X22 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (MICR2X21, MICR2X22, MICR3X11)] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (BMED2401 or BMED2404)] OR [MICR2024 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from GENE2002]. Prohibitions: MICR3022 or MICR3922 or MICR3042 Assessment: One 1-hour theory exam (40%). One 2-hour practical exam, presentation of research via short video, lab book mark and supervisor mark based on performance in research project (60%). Practical field work: Research project in an academic microbiology lab, 48 hours total, at times decided between student and supervisor. Research projects will be announced at the start of semester. Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Research in molecular microbiology is needed to tackle problems in medicine, agriculture, environmental science, and biotechnology. This Unit of Study focuses on developing practical skills and training in experimental approaches that are essential for laboratory research in molecular microbiology, together with knowledge of the underlying theoretical concepts. In this Unit the practical component is entirely replaced by a research project undertaken in an academic microbiology lab. The lecture material in MICR3942 focuses on the areas of microbial biotechnology and bioremediation, and the genetic and molecular diversity of medically important eukaryotic microbes. It is strongly recommended that students also take the complementary unit of study, MICR3032 or MICR3932.
VIRO3001 Virology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tim Newsome Session: Semester 1 Classes: 26 x 1-hour lectures, 7 x 4-hour practical classes, 1 x 2-hour tutorial Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX, GENE2XXX)] OR [BMED2401 and BMED2404 and 6cp from BMED240X] OR [GENE2002 and MICR2024] Prohibitions: VIRO3901 Assumed knowledge: Intermediate Microbiology Assessment: Pre-class assessment for practical classes: (5 x 1%), continuous assessment for practical classes: (3 x 2%), project assessment for practical classes: (7%), presentation on virology-themed research literature: (7%), theory of practical exam: (15%) (30 minutes), theory exam (60%) (120 minutes). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are very strongly advised to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3002 or VIRO3902.
Viruses are some of the simplest biological machinery known yet they are also the etiological agents for some of the most important human diseases. New technologies that have revolutionised the discovery of viruses are also revealing a hitherto unappreciated abundance and diversity in the ecosphere, and a wider role in human health and disease. Developing new gene technologies have enabled the use of viruses as therapeutic agents, in novel vaccine approaches, gene delivery and in the treatment of cancer. This unit of study is designed to introduce students who have a basic understanding of molecular biology to the rapidly evolving field of virology. Viral infection in plant and animal cells and bacteria is covered by an examination of virus structure, genomes, gene expression and replication. Building upon these foundations, this unit progresses to examine host-virus interactions, pathogenesis, cell injury, the immune response and the prevention and control of infection and outbreaks. The structure and replication of sub-viral agents: viroids and prions, and their role in disease are also covered. The practical component provides hands-on experience in current diagnostic and research techniques such as molecular biology, cell culture, serological techniques, immunofluorescence and immunoblot analyses and is designed to enhance the students' practical skills and complement the lecture series. In these practical sessions experience will be gained handling live, potentially pathogenic microbes. Tutorials cover a range of topical issues and provide a forum for students to develop their communication and critical thinking skills. The unit will be taught by the Discipline of Microbiology within the School of Molecular Bioscience with the involvement of the Discipline of Infectious Diseases and Immunology within the Sydney Medical School.
Textbooks
Knipe and Howley. Fields Virology. 6th edition 2013. Available freely as an electronic resource from the University of Sydney library.
VIRO3901 Virology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Tim Newsome Session: Semester 1 Classes: 29 x 1-hour lectures, 7 x 4-hour practical classes, 4 x 1-hour tutorials Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX, GENE2XXX)] OR [BMED2401 and 6cp from BMED240X and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from BMED2404] OR [GENE2002 and MICR2024 and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (GENE2002, MICR2024)] Prohibitions: VIRO3001 Assumed knowledge: Intermediate Microbiology Assessment: Pre-class assessment for practical classes: (5 x 1%), continuous assessment for practical classes: (3 x 2%), project assessment for practical classes: (7%), individual presentation on virology-themed research literature: (7%), theory of practical exam: (15%) (30 minutes), theory exam: (60%) (120 minutes) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are very strongly advised to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3002 or VIRO3902.
This unit is available to students who have performed well in Intermediate Microbiology and is based on VIRO3001 with additional lectures related to the research interests in the Discipline. Consequently, the unit of study content may change from year to year. Viruses are some of the simplest biological machinery known yet they are also the etiological agents for some of the most important human diseases. New technologies that have revolutionised the discovery of viruses are also revealing a hitherto unappreciated abundance and diversity in the ecosphere, and a wider role in human health and disease. Developing new gene technologies have enabled the use of viruses as therapeutic agents, in novle vaccine approaches, gene delivery and in the treatment of cancer. This unit of study is designed to introduce students who have a basic understanding of molecular biology to the rapidly evolving field of virology. Viral infection in plant and animal cells and bacteria is covered by an examination of virus structure, genomes, gene expression and replication. Building upon these foundations, this unit progresses to examine host-virus interactions, pathogenesis, cell injury, the immune response and the prevention and control of infection and outbreaks. The structure and replication of sub-viral agents: viroids and prions, and their role in disease are also covered. The practical component provides hands-on experience in current diagnostic and research techniques such as molecular biology, cell culture, serological techniques, immunofluroescence and immunoblot analyses and is designed to enhance the students' practical skills and complement the lecture series. In these practical sessions experience will be gained handling live, potentially pathogenic microbes. Advanced lectures cover cutting-edge research in the field of virology in small group discussions and presentations that provide a forum for students to develop their communication and critical thinking skills. The unit will be taught by the Discipline of Microbiology within the School of Molecular Bioscience with the involvement of the Discipline of Infectious Diseases and Immunology within the Sydney Medical School.
Textbooks
Knipe and Howley. Fields Virology. 6th edition 2013. Available freely as an electronic resource from the University of Sydney library.
VIRO3002 Medical and Applied Virology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Barry Slobedman Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week and one 4-hour practical session per week. Practical session slots are also used for oral presentations. Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX, GENE2XXX)] OR [ BMED2401 and BMED2404 and (6cp from BMED240X)] OR [GENE2002 and MICR2024] Prohibitions: VIRO3902 Assumed knowledge: Intermediate microbiology, immunology, molecular biology and genetics. Assessment: One 2-hour exam covering lecture material, one 2-hour theory of practical exam, written assignment and oral presentation (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are strongly encouraged to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3002.
This unit of study explores diseases in human caused by viruses, with focus on the way viruses infect individual patients and spread in the community, and how virus infections are diagnosed, treated and/or prevented. Host/Virus interactions will also be described with a focus on the viral mechanisms that have evolved to combat and/or evade host defence systems. These features will be used to explain the symptoms, spread and control of the most medically important viruses that cause serious disease in humans . The unit will be taught by the Discipline of Infectious Diseases and Immunology within the Sydney Medical School with the involvement of associated clinical and research experts who will contribute lectures on their own special interests and with contributions from the Discipline of Microbiology. In the practical classes students will have the opportunity to develop their skills in performing methods currently used in diagnostic and research laboratories such as molecular analysis of viral genomes, immunofluorescent staining of viral antigens, cell culture and the culture of viruses.
Textbooks
Knipe and Howley. Fields Virology. 6th edition 2013. Available freely as an electronic resource from the University of Sydney library.
VIRO3902 Medical and Applied Virology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Barry Slobedman Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1 hour lectures and one 4 hour practical session per week (as per VIRO3002), and interactive 2-hour tutorials (approx 6 in total, including for oral presentations) Prerequisites: [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLGXXXX) and a mark of 75 or above in 6cp from (MICR2XXX, BCHM2XXX, BIOL2XXX, IMMU2XXX, PCOL2XXX, PHSI2XXX or GENE2XXX)] OR [ BMED2401 and (a mark of 75 or above in BMED2404) and (6cp from BMED240X)] Prohibitions: VIRO3002 Assessment: One 2-hour exam covering lecture material, one 2-hour theory of practical exam, written assignment and oral presentation (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: Students are strongly encouraged to complete VIRO3001 or VIRO3901 before enrolling in VIRO3902.
This unit is based on the VIRO3002 course with inclusion of tutorials, including with leading research medical virologists, enabling students to gain additional experience with cutting edge virology research. The content of this unit may change from year to year based on research interests within the department.
Textbooks
Knipe and Howley. Fields Virology. 6th edition 2013. Available freely as an electronic resource from the University of Sydney library.