These career goals might include technical employment or nonuniversity teaching. In addition, a written essay consisting of a critical review of some area of microbiological literature plus a final oral examination based on the essay and on the relevant material covered in courses are required. The emphasis is on an understanding at the molecular level of microbial pathogenesis, including colonization, invasion, antigen variation, toxin production, and mode of action. Graduate students must register for MBI 514 seminar. This course provides an in-depth examination of representative genetic systems in bacteria and bacterial viruses.
Emphasis is placed on the methods of genetic analysis used to study biological function.
The material covered includes the nature of bacterial variation, processes affecting gene synthesis and integrity, the nature of gene transfer in bacteria, and the regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes. This course provides a survey of microbial physiology with emphasis on metabolism, regulation, cell walls, membranes, ecology, and adaptation to extreme environments. The class meets twice per week for two lectures of 75 minutes each. Extensive handout materials are provided, and readings are from the current literature. Ph.D. students must register for MBI 531 seminar.