Moderne Methoden der mikrobiellen Ökologie

What it is about

You will learn modern methods of microbial ecology and how to apply them. The module introduces molecular techniques (e.g., PCR, high-throughput sequencing), stable isotope approaches, as well as classical analyses such as biomass measurements and enzyme activity determinations. In the end you will be able to select appropriate methods for specific questions, assess their advantages and disadvantages, and practically apply many of the techniques.

What you will be able to do

• Make method choices for specific ecological questions
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of individual methods
• Recognize complementarity and synergies of different approaches
• Master practical application of laboratory and analytical methods
• Assess perspectives for future directions (e.g., proteomics, metabolomics)

What the module consists of

• VorlesungTransmission of theoretical foundations of modern methods
• SeminarDiscussions on current research questions and perspectives
• PraktikumPractice in laboratory skills, demonstrations and experiments

Teaching method

• VortragDelivery of theory and methodological knowledge
• AnleitungsgesprächeIntroduction and supervision of practical work in the practicum
• DemonstrationenShowing laboratory procedures and techniques
• ExperimentePractical application and exercise of laboratory skills
• PartnerarbeitCollaboration on practical tasks and protocols
• ErgebnisbesprechungenReflection and evaluation of experimental results
• Selbststudium (Skript, Literatur)Deepening of lecture and practicum content