Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - MBB 440 D100

Selected Topics in Contemporary Molecular Biology (3)

Microbial Physiology

Class Number: 2011

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    will depend upon the nature of the topic offered.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The topics in this course will vary from term to term, depending on faculty availability and student interest.

COURSE DETAILS:

Microbial Physiology

Description:  Focusing on nine very different bacterial species, this course explores how bacteria detect changes in their external and internal environments, and how they control gene expression to adjust their physiology and behaviour in response;  the partitioning of bacterial cells in time and space that accompanies structural and functional differentiation; the importance of phenotypic variability within populations of genetically identical bacteria, and the mechanisms underlying it; the diversity of bacterial lifestyles in the wild, including their ability to interact cooperatively or antagonistically with their own and other species.

Topics include:

  • Control of gene expression
  • Global responses to stress
  • Signal transduction
  • Intercellular communication
  • Motility
  • Multicellularity
  • Circadian rhythm
  • Subcellular organization
  • Population-level variability
  • Sociomicrobiology

Grading

  • Test #1 10%
  • Test #2 20%
  • Test #3 30%
  • Project 40%

NOTES:

Three in-class tests and one project.
Grading is subject to change depending on enrolment.

REQUIREMENTS:

Prerequisites:

MBB331 or BISC303 with a minimum grade of C or permission of the instructor.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

A draft textbook, prepared specifically for this course, will be provided on-line.

Department Undergraduate Notes:


  • For help with writing, learning and study strategies please contact the Student Learning Commons at
    http://learningcommons.sfu.ca/
  • Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability, must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (778-782-3112 or e-mail:  caladmin@sfu.ca)

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS