ERAR6010
10 units
6000 level
Course handbook
Description
This course demonstrates how biotechnology can be applied in the field of environmental research and to find solution and management strategies for environmental contamination problems in water, sediment, soil and air. Biotechnology is widely used in the environmental sector for creating biosensors for sensing pollutants in the environment, for monitoring natural attenuation and also for developing superbugs for bioremediation. This course introduces the students to how biotechnological tools can be used to study environmental assessment, monitoring and remediation. The course is divided into lectures, laboratory experiments and assignments. The course will facilitate understanding of both environmental microbiology and biotechnology.
Availability
Not currently offered.
This Course was last offered in Semester 2 - 2020.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Understand the advances in environmental applications of microorganisms including GMOs and biosensors.
2. Demonstrate skills in laboratory and theoretical aspects of environmental biology.
3. Demonstrate knowledge about the application of biotechnology or environmental risk assessment and remediation.
4. Demonstrate the ability to use various instruments used in microbial biotechnology, their operating principles and application.
5. Show awareness of bioethics and policies.
Content
Part A. Microbial biochemistry
- Soil, air and water microbiology
- Microbial physiology and biochemistry
- Molecular microbiology
Part B. Biotechnology for environmental applications
- Application of biotechnology in bioremediation of soil and water.
- Biological aspects of environmental nanotechnology.
- Genetically modified organisms for environmental application.
Part C. Waste to energy
- Biomass to bio methane.
- Microbial fuel cells for remediation and energy production.
Part D. Bioethics
- Ethics in environmental application of living organisms.
- Policies in environmental biotechnology.
Assumed knowledge
A bachelor degree in science, mathematics or engineering or equivalent.
Assessment items
Case Study / Problem Based Learning: Case Studies
Essay: Essays
Report: Laboratory Report
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.