ENVN 3030 MICROBIAL ECOLOGY (4 credits)
This course will introduce students to the diversity and ecology of microbes in various environments (soils, water, plants, insects, etc.) through an integrated lecture and laboratory course. Emphasis will be placed on molecular approaches to analyzing microbial diversity and evolution, and teacher-directed but student-led investigations. Students will participate in a continuum of course-based research experiences in molecular microbial ecology, from field work to laboratory techniques, and evolutionary analysis of DNA sequence data. The course explores ecological principles as they apply to microorganisms, while emphasizing the molecular, biochemical and evolutionary diversity in the microbial world. (Cross-listed with BIOL 3030).