Microbiology foundations and global applications

Microbes are fundamental for both our survival and planetary health. In this unit you will gain a strong foundation in microbiology and microbial genetics, and relate this to the numerous ways in which microbes affect us and our planet. You will learn how microbiology can help solve some of the key global challenges of our time across the areas of health, environment, climate change, food production and biotechnology. You will gain work ready skills and learn how to operate safely in a specialised biosafety level 2 (PC2) laboratory.  Core laboratory skills essential for practicing microbiologists will be developed and applied to real-world scenarios, including aseptic technique, safe handling of microbes, microbial detection and identification, staining and microscopy.  This unit provides an excellent introduction to the field for all those interested in how microbes impact our lives and seeking to apply microbiology to safeguard our future.