Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2023 - BISC 303 D100

Microbiology (4)

Class Number: 1839

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 6 – Oct 6, 2023: Tue, Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 11 – Dec 5, 2023: Tue, Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 16, 2023
    Sat, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Jane Fowler
    sjfowler@sfu.ca
    778-782-3441
    Office: SSB 6153

  • Instructor:

    Agata Becalska
    anb@sfu.ca
    778-782-5936
    Office: B9243

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 102, MBB 222, and MBB 231, all with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A broad introduction to micro-organisms (bacteria, viruses and archaea) with an emphasis on their molecular biology, metabolism, physiology, and interactions with their hosts and environment. Labs introduce students to modern microbial techniques.

COURSE DETAILS:

COURSE DETAILS:

Students will be introduced to the unique biology of microorganisms as well as their importance in the environment and in medicine. Lecture topics complement the lab exercises (see below) and will include: Diversity- Structure, function, and taxonomy; Metabolism -  growth and metabolic diversity; bacterial genetics, viruses, symbiosis, pathogenesis, microbial control and industrial/ environmental applications.

Laboratory Component: The laboratory exercises familiarize students with basic techniques in microbiology. Labs will commence during the first week of classes.  

Grading

  • • Lab Assignments 50%
  • • Midterm Exam 15%
  • • Final Exam 35%

REQUIREMENTS:

Laboratory Component: The laboratory exercises familiarize students with basic techniques in microbiology. Labs will commence during the first week of classes. Students are required to participate in approximately one hour of open lab time per week (on Wednesdays and/or Fridays) in addition to scheduled lab times.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Prescott’s Microbiology  12th Edition (2023) by Willey, Sherwood and Wolverton,  McGraw Hill Higher Education ISBN  9781264088393

Connect (w/ Smartbook ebook) and the hard copy print edition are both acceptable.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.