An introduction to the world of Bacteria, Archaea, microscopic Eukarya and viruses. Emphasizing the role of microbes as causal agents of major human disease (TB, AIDS, malaria); as essential components of the human microbiome; as critical elements in biogeochemical processes; and as tools in agriculture, industry and food production. Lecture, discussion, student presentations and laboratory projects. Meets the Critical Perspectives: Scientific Investigation of the Natural World lab or field requirement.

Prerequisite: Strong high school Chemistry highly recommended.

Degree requirement — Critical Perspectives: Lab

1 unit — Pena

Offerings

Term	Block	Title	Instructor	Location	Student Limit/Available	Updated
Fall 2024	Block 4	Biology of Microbes	Jesus Pena	Barnes Science Center 413	24 / 5	07/10/2025
Spring 2025	Block 6	Biology of Microbes	Jesus Pena	Olin Hall 482	24 / 1	07/10/2025
Spring 2025	Block 8	Biology of Microbes	Jesus Pena	Olin Hall 482	24 / 1	07/10/2025
Fall 2025	Block 2	Biology of Microbes	Jesus Pena	TBA	24 / 11	07/10/2025
Spring 2026	Block 6	Biology of Microbes	Jesus Pena	TBA	24 / 24	07/10/2025