1 Aim of the Semester 2 Microbiology laboratory sessions

The aim of this laboratory is to introduce students to fundamental molecular biology and microbiology methods, such as Gram staining, the use of selective and differential media, identifying unknown microbes, and DNA analysis.

1.1 Microbiology Laboratories Competency Skills

Graduate recruiters look for specific job skills and competencies. Competencies are action-oriented statements of the knowledge, skills, and abilities people need to do their work successfully. They are observable and measurable. These are what you need to do the job and work in their organisation. Some are straightforward and required in many different career: communication, teamwork and problem solving are just a few. You need to show employers you have mastered essential skills such as writing, reading, numeracy, presentation, organisation and the ability to work under pressure. Graduates who demonstrate their analytical thinking during a job interview or assessment centre will stand out from other candidates. Other skills such as those gained in the laboratory are more specific and aligned to particular types of jobs e.g. ability to do a PCR.

You will be assessed for your competency in the following:

Lab 1

Using aseptic technique.
Pipetting
Isolating and analysing plasmid DNA from microorganisms
Documenting and reporting on experimental results and conclusions.

Lab 2

Using aseptic technique.
Observing colony morphology of bacterial and eukaryotic microorganisms.
Preparing and viewing specimens for examination using microscopy.
Using appropriate methods to identify microorganisms (differential stains and media).
Documenting and reporting on experimental results and conclusions.

Lab 3

Using aseptic technique
Pipetting
Anaerobic cultivation of microbes
Using appropriate methods to identify microorganisms (differential media, tests)
Documenting and reporting on experimental results and conclusions

Lab 4

Using aseptic technique.
Pipetting
Analysing genotypes using PCR
Performing basic lab calculations
Documenting and reporting on experimental results and conclusions.

Lab 5

Using aseptic technique.
Pipetting
Analysing biofilm formation
Performing differential stains and examining specimens using microscopy
Documenting and reporting on experimental results and conclusions

1.2 Overall learning outcomes

Students will understand how to examine microorganisms, both at the macroscopic (colony morphology), and the microscopic (including the use of appropriate staining techniques) scale.
Students will understand how to identify unknown microorganisms using molecular and media-based techniques.
Students will understand how to isolate and analyse plasmid DNA from microorganisms.
Students will understand how to carry out PCR and interpret the results from multiplexed reactions.