Introduction to Geomicrobiology
Veranstaltungsnummer: 600616
Timing: Thursdays, 14:15-15:45, Every winter semester
Location: Room 225/226, Goldschmidtstr. 3
Credits/SWS: 6/4
Maximum no. of students: 10
Requirements: Students should have a basic understanding of biology, geology and microbiology. The course will be held in English, so students should have the ability to understand, read and write in English.
Course description:
Microbes have played an extremely important role in shaping Earth’s history. They can dramatically alter the geochemistry of habitats, and control many important geological processes such as rock weathering and mineral precipitation. This interdisciplinary course will provide students with a comprehensive background to the current theory and basic experimental techniques in Geomicrobiology. It will cover relevant aspects of geology, microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, and molecular biology.
In the first part of the course (Oct 22, 2009- Feb 4, 2010), students will be taught the basics of geomicrobiology, and important concepts will be illustrated using discussions of scientific literature. Evaluation will be based on a written exam. The second part of the course will include a field trip (March 1-7, 2010) to sulfide-rich springs and limestone caves in the Frasassi region of central Italy, where students will get the opportunity to collect geochemical data and microbial biofilms. After returning to Göttingen, they will subsequently analyze these biofilm samples using techniques such as DNA cloning, Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH) and microscopy. Students will work in groups of 2-3 on fieldwork/ laboratory exercises and present a final report.
Please contact Dr. Dattagupta if you have an interest in joining this course and have questions.
Biology for Geologists
Veranstaltungsnummer: BG503
Timing: Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:15-12:00, Every summer semester
Location: Lecture room MN14
Credits/SWS: 6/4
Maximum no. of students: 45
Requirements: Part of the course will be held in English, so students should have the ability to understand, read and write in English.
Course description:
Organisms have played a crucial role in shaping Earth's environment, and conversely, Geology strongly influences Biology. So a basic understanding of biology is extremely important and relevant for all Geologists. This course provides a basic introduction to Biology and is especially designed to cover topics relevant to Geologists. It is divided into three parts: Microbes (taught by Sharmishtha Dattagupta), Metazoans (taught by Daniel Jackson), and Plants (taught by Alexander Schmidt). The section about Microbes involves student-led discussions on three controversial topics in microbiology to give students a deeper understanding beyond the textbook and also the experience of public speaking.
Please contact Dr. Dattagupta if you have an interest in joining this course and have questions.
