Twin Cities campus

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Twin Cities Campus

Microbial Engineering M.S.

BioTechnology Institute
College of Biological Sciences
Link to a list of faculty for this program.
Contact Information
M.S. Program in Microbial Engineering, University of Minnesota, 1479 Gortner Avenue, Suite 140, Saint Paul, MN 55108 (612-624-6774; fax 612-625-5780)
Email: mice@umn.edu
Website: http://www.bti.umn.edu/MicE
  • Program Type: Master's
  • Requirements for this program are current for Spring 2018
  • Length of program in credits: 30
  • This program does not require summer semesters for timely completion.
  • Degree: Master of Science
Along with the program-specific requirements listed below, please read the General Information section of this website for requirements that apply to all major fields.
Microbial engineering allows students to pursue an interdisciplinary program that combines microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, chemical engineering, and related sciences. Students perform brief rotations in faculty laboratories to choose an independent project, and tailor their coursework to support and complement their research. Projects can span modern basic microbiology, applied industrial engineering, as well as include computer science and informatics disciplines. After graduation, many students choose to continue on to a PhD program in a related discipline or work directly in biotechnology research and development. Supporting courses are chosen from fields including biochemistry, microbiology, food science, genetics and cell biology, and computer science. The program is coordinated by the BioTechnology Institute (BTI) and involves faculty from 10 departments and 5 institutes of the University.
Program Delivery
  • via classroom (the majority of instruction is face-to-face)
Prerequisites for Admission
The preferred undergraduate GPA for admittance to the program is 3.00.
Science or Engineering Discipline
N/A
Other requirements to be completed before admission:
Typically, applicants with a bachelor's degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, chemistry, or chemical engineering or related engineering disciplines apply. Recommended academic preparation includes one year each of calculus, organic chemistry, physics, microbiology, and a background in a field such as basic chemical engineering, biology, physical chemistry, or genetics. Background deficiencies can be made up during the first year of graduate work. Most students enter the program with a GPA of 3.00 or higher.
Special Application Requirements:
Three letters of recommendation, scores from the General Test of the GRE, the TOEFL score for international applicants, transcripts, Curriculum Vitae, and an autobiographical statement including occupational goals must be submitted to the director of graduate studies. Applications are accepted for fall semester only. To receive full consideration for financial aid, students must apply for fall semester admission by January 14.
Applicants must submit their test score(s) from the following:
  • GRE
International applicants must submit score(s) from one of the following tests:
  • TOEFL
    • Internet Based - Total Score: 79
    • Internet Based - Writing Score: 21
    • Internet Based - Reading Score: 19
    • Paper Based - Total Score: 550
  • IELTS
    • Total Score: 6.5
  • MELAB
    • Final score: 80
    • Speaking test score: 0
Key to test abbreviations (GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB).
For an online application or for more information about graduate education admissions, see the General Information section of this website.
Program Requirements
Plan A: Plan A requires 14 major credits, 6 credits outside the major, and 10 thesis credits. The final exam is oral.
Plan B: Plan B requires 24 major credits and 6 credits outside the major. The final exam is oral.
This program may not be completed with a minor.
Use of 4xxx courses toward program requirements is permitted under certain conditions with adviser approval.
MicE Requirements
All students are required to sign up for the following courses: MicE 5355 (1 Credit during winter break with special registration) and MicE 8990 (1 Credit per semester) Attendance is MANDATORY for two semesters. Two credits are needed for graduation.
MICE 5355 - Advanced Fermentation and Biocatalysis Laboratory (1.0 cr)
MICE 8990 - Biotechnology Seminar (1.0-3.0 cr)
Computer Proficiency Requirement
Students are required to show evidence of competence in using computers and a practical working knowledge of at least one computer language such as Pascal, Fortran, python, scripting, or statistical packages appropriate to their area of interest. Experience and competence may be obtained by passing a semester of basic computer use and programming courses, or submitting evidence that Equivalent courses of study have been completed elsewhere. (One course upper level required.)
BIOL 5272 - Applied Biostatistics (4.0 cr)
or CSCI 5421 - Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures (3.0 cr)
Plan Options
Plan A
Take at least 14 additional course credits, in consultation with the advisor, and 10 thesis credits (MICE 8777).
Thesis Credits
Take at least 10 master's thesis credits.
MICE 8777 - Thesis Credits: Master's (1.0-18.0 cr)
RELATED ELECTIVES
A maximum of 9 credits of 4000-level coursework is allowed. Additional courses can be used with the approval of the director of graduate studies.
Take 14 or more credit(s) from the following:
· BBE 4713 - Biological Process Engineering (3.0 cr)
· BBE 5713 - Biological Process Engineering (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 4125 - Laboratory in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 4331 - Biochemistry I: Structure, Catalysis, and Metabolism in Biological Systems (4.0 cr)
· BIOC 4332 - Biochemistry II: Molecular Mechanisms of Signal Transduction and Gene Expression (4.0 cr)
· BIOC 4521 - Introduction to Physical Biochemistry (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5309 - Biocatalysis and Biodegradation (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5352 - Biotechnology and Bioengineering for Biochemists (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5361 - Microbial Genomics and Bioinformatics (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5527 {Inactive} (4.0 cr)
· BIOC 5xxx
· BIOC 8084 - Research and Literature Reports (1.0 cr)
· BIOL 4003 - Genetics (3.0 cr)
· BIOL 4004 - Cell Biology (3.0 cr)
· CHEN 5751 - Biochemical Engineering (3.0 cr)
· CHEN 5xxx
· CHEN 8754 - Systems Analysis of Biological Processes (3.0 cr)
· CHEN 8xxx
· FSCN 4121 - Food Microbiology (3.0 cr)
· FSCN 4122 - Food Fermentations and Biotechnology (2.0 cr)
· FSCN 4332 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· GCD 5036 - Molecular Cell Biology (3.0 cr)
· GCD 8131 - Advanced Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3.0 cr)
· GCD 8151 - Cellular Biochemistry and Cell Biology (2.0-4.0 cr)
· MICA 8002 - Structure, Function, and Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses (4.0 cr)
· MICB 4131 - Immunology (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4151 - Molecular and Genetic Bases for Microbial Diseases (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4171 - Biology, Genetics, and Pathogenesis of Viruses (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4215 - Advanced Laboratory: Microbial Physiology and Diversity (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4235 - Advanced Laboratory: Virology, Immunology, and Microbial Genetics (3.0 cr)
· MICE 5035 - Personal Microbiome Analysis (3.0 cr)
· MICE 5xxx
· MICE 8920 - Teaching Practicum (1.0 cr)
· MICE 8xxx
· PMB 8123 - Research Ethics in the Plant and Environmental Sciences (0.5 cr)
· STAT 5021 - Statistical Analysis (4.0 cr)
-OR-
Plan B
Take 24 additional credits, in consultation with the advisor.
RELATED ELECTIVES
Take 24 or more credit(s) from the following:
· BBE 4713 - Biological Process Engineering (3.0 cr)
· BBE 5713 - Biological Process Engineering (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 4125 - Laboratory in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 4331 - Biochemistry I: Structure, Catalysis, and Metabolism in Biological Systems (4.0 cr)
· BIOC 4332 - Biochemistry II: Molecular Mechanisms of Signal Transduction and Gene Expression (4.0 cr)
· BIOC 4521 - Introduction to Physical Biochemistry (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5352 - Biotechnology and Bioengineering for Biochemists (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5361 - Microbial Genomics and Bioinformatics (3.0 cr)
· BIOC 5527 {Inactive} (4.0 cr)
· BIOC 5xxx
· BIOC 8084 - Research and Literature Reports (1.0 cr)
· BIOL 4003 - Genetics (3.0 cr)
· BIOL 4004 - Cell Biology (3.0 cr)
· CHEN 5751 - Biochemical Engineering (3.0 cr)
· CHEN 5xxx
· CHEN 8xxx
· FSCN 4121 - Food Microbiology (3.0 cr)
· FSCN 4122 - Food Fermentations and Biotechnology (2.0 cr)
· FSCN 4332 {Inactive} (3.0 cr)
· GCD 5036 - Molecular Cell Biology (3.0 cr)
· GCD 8131 - Advanced Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3.0 cr)
· GCD 8151 - Cellular Biochemistry and Cell Biology (2.0-4.0 cr)
· MICA 8002 - Structure, Function, and Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses (4.0 cr)
· MICB 4131 - Immunology (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4151 - Molecular and Genetic Bases for Microbial Diseases (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4215 - Advanced Laboratory: Microbial Physiology and Diversity (3.0 cr)
· MICB 4235 - Advanced Laboratory: Virology, Immunology, and Microbial Genetics (3.0 cr)
· MICE 5xxx
· MICE 8xxx
· BIOC 5309 - Biocatalysis and Biodegradation (3.0 cr)
· CHEN 8754 - Systems Analysis of Biological Processes (3.0 cr)
· MICE 5035 - Personal Microbiome Analysis (3.0 cr)
· MICE 8920 - Teaching Practicum (1.0 cr)
· PMB 8123 - Research Ethics in the Plant and Environmental Sciences (0.5 cr)
· STAT 5021 - Statistical Analysis (4.0 cr)
 
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MICE 5355 - Advanced Fermentation and Biocatalysis Laboratory
Credits: 1.0 [max 1.0]
Course Equivalencies: MicE 5355/ChEn 5355
Grading Basis: S-N only
Typically offered: Every Spring
Methods in industrial microbiology, lab, and pilot scale fermentation/biocatalysis engineering. Lab experiments carried out in fermentation pilot plant. Operation of bench/pilot scale bioreactors. Designing bioreactors. Process optimization, monitoring, and control. Scale-up experiments, data analysis. prereq: [3301 or BIOL 3301], [grad student in microbial engineering or upper-div major in [microbiology or chem engineering or biochemistry]], instr consent
MICE 8990 - Biotechnology Seminar
Credits: 1.0 -3.0 [max 6.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Student presentations of thesis research and presentations by invited speakers. prereq: Prereq-First-yr MiCEstudents enroll S-N, as they do not make a presentation. Second-yr MiCE students enroll A-F, as they present a seminar; fall, spring, every year). Student presentations of thesis research and presentations by invited speakers or designated lecturers.
BIOL 5272 - Applied Biostatistics
Credits: 4.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Biol 3272Biol 3272H//Biol 5272
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Conceptual basis of statistical analysis. Statistical analysis of biological data. Data visualization, descriptive statistics, significance tests, experimental design, linear model, simple/multiple regression, general linear model. Lectures, computer lab. prereq: High school algebra; BIOL 2003 recommended.
CSCI 5421 - Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Fundamental paradigms of algorithm and data structure design. Divide-and-conquer, dynamic programming, greedy method, graph algorithms, amortization, priority queues and variants, search structures, disjoint-set structures. Theoretical underpinnings. Examples from various problem domains. prereq: 4041 or instr consent
MICE 8777 - Thesis Credits: Master's
Credits: 1.0 -18.0 [max 50.0]
Grading Basis: No Grade
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
(No description) prereq: Max 18 cr per semester or summer; 10 cr total required [Plan A only]
BBE 4713 - Biological Process Engineering
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BBE 4713/BBE 5713
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
Material/energy balances. Homogeneous reactions of bioprocess engineering/biological systems. Fermentation engineering, reactor design. Filtration, centrifugation, separation, absorption, extraction, chromatography. Biorefining. Conversion of biomass. prereq: [3033, [4013 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4013], upper div CSE] or instr consent
BBE 5713 - Biological Process Engineering
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BBE 4713/BBE 5713
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Spring
Material/energy balances. Homogeneous reactions of bioprocess engineering and biological systems. Fermentation engineering, reactor design fundamentals. Filtration, centrifugation, separation, absorption, extraction, chromatography. Biorefining. Conversion of biomass into bioenergy, biochemicals, and biomaterials. prereq: [3033, [4013 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4013], or instr consent
BIOC 4125 - Laboratory in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BioC 4125/BioC 4185/Biol 4125/
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Summer
This molecular biology laboratory course is designed to give students hands-on experience performing common techniques used in modern molecular biology, as well as the background information needed to understand what kind of information can be obtained by using them. Because of the dual nature of this course, a portion of the laboratory time will be spent on lectures explaining the theory behind the techniques being used as well as practical aspects of experimental design. In addition, readings will be assigned that explain the history and principles behind some of the techniques used. Basic recombinant DNA techniques: methods for growing, isolating, and purifying recombinant DNA and cloning vectors, DNA sequencing and sequence analysis, gene expression, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), other current techniques. prereq: Biol 3015 or Biol 3020 or Biol 3025 or Bioc 3021 or Bioc 3022 or Bioc 4331 or Biol 4003 or instructor consent
BIOC 4331 - Biochemistry I: Structure, Catalysis, and Metabolism in Biological Systems
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: BioC 3021/BioC 3022/BioC 4331/
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Advanced survey of structure/catalysis, metabolism/bioenergetics. prereq: (BIOL 1009 or 2003 or equiv) AND (Chem 2302 or CHEM 2081/2085 or equiv)
BIOC 4332 - Biochemistry II: Molecular Mechanisms of Signal Transduction and Gene Expression
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Advanced survey of molecular biology. Mechanisms of gene action/biological regulation. prereq: BioC 4331 or Bioc 3201 or BioC 3022
BIOC 4521 - Introduction to Physical Biochemistry
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Physical chemical principles, their applications in biochemistry. Thermodynamics, kinetics, spectroscopy, solution dynamics as applied to biochemical reactions/ biopolymers. prereq: 4331 recommended, (Chem 1081 or 1061 and 1065) AND (Physics 1221 or 1201W or 1301W) required
BIOC 5309 - Biocatalysis and Biodegradation
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Bioc 5309/MicE 5309
Typically offered: Every Spring
Fundamentals of microbial enzymes/metabolism as pertaining to biodegradation of environmental pollutants/biosynthesis for making commodity chemicals. Practical examples. Guest speakers from industry.
BIOC 5352 - Biotechnology and Bioengineering for Biochemists
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BioC 5352/MicB 5352
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Spring
Protein biotechnology. Microorganisms used as hosts for protein expression, protein expression, and engineering methods. Production of enzymes of industrial interest. Applications of protein biotechnology in bioelectronics. Formulation of therapeutic biopharmaceuticals. Recommended prerequisites: Biochemistry (BiOC 3021 or 3022 or 4331) and Microbiology MICB 3301
BIOC 5361 - Microbial Genomics and Bioinformatics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introduction to genomics. Emphasizes microbial genomics. Sequencing methods, sequence analysis, genomics databases, genome mapping, prokaryotic horizontal gene transfer, genomics in biotechnology, intellectual property issues. Hands-on introduction to UNIX shell scripting, genomic data analysis using R and Excel in a computer lab setting. prereq: College-level courses in [organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology]
BIOC 8084 - Research and Literature Reports
Credits: 1.0 [max 5.0]
Grading Basis: S-N or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Current developments. prereq: Grad BMBB major or instr consent
BIOL 4003 - Genetics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Biol 4003/GCD 3022
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Genetic information, its transmission from parents to offspring, its expression in cells/organisms, and its course in populations. prereq: Biol 2003/2003H or BioC 3021 or BioC 4331 or grad
BIOL 4004 - Cell Biology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Biol 4004/GCD 3033/4005W
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Processes fundamental to cells. Emphasizes eukaryotic cells. Assembly/function of membranes/organelles. Cell division, cell form/movement, intercellular communication, transport, secretion pathways. Cancer cells, differentiated cells. prereq: Completion of Biol 4003 is preferred, Biol2003/2003H or Biol4003 or grad
CHEN 5751 - Biochemical Engineering
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Chemical engineering principles applied to analysis/design of complex cellular/enzyme processes. Quantitative framework for design of cells for production of proteins, synthesis of antibodies with mammalian cells, or degradation of toxic compounds in contaminated soil. prereq: [3005 or 4005], [concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3006 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4006], [concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3102 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4102]
CHEN 8754 - Systems Analysis of Biological Processes
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Relating biological processes at molecular level to physiological level of cells/organisms/populations. Methodology for analyzing data. Quantification of molecular interplays. prereq: Grad student in [life sciences or chemical/physical sciences or engineering]; ChEn students must take A/F
FSCN 4121 - Food Microbiology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: OPT No Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
Microorganisms involved in food-borne disease, food fermentations, and food spoilage. Methods for their control/detection. Food microbiology. Foodborne pathogens. Microbial food spoilage. Control of microorganisms in food. prereq: BIOC 3021, [2021 or VBS 2032 or MICB 3301]
FSCN 4122 - Food Fermentations and Biotechnology
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Major food fermentations important for food industry. Microbiological components. Impact of biotechnology on food production. Genetic tools. Improvement of microbes used in food production by biotechnological approaches. prereq: [MICB 3301, BIOL 4003] or instr consent
GCD 5036 - Molecular Cell Biology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Analysis of dynamic cellular activities at the molecular level in cell biological fields that are experiencing new research advances not yet reflected in textbooks. Significant emphasis is placed on understanding the experimental basis of our current knowledge of cellular processes through analysis of scientific papers. Project and presentation-based assessments of learning outcomes. prereq: BIOL 4004 or GCD 4005W or grad
GCD 8131 - Advanced Molecular Genetics and Genomics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Literature-based course in modern molecular genetic and genomic analysis. Students will gain a deep understanding of the fundamental molecular mechanisms controlling inheritance in biological systems. Students will gain a facility in thinking critically and creatively about how genes work at cellular, organismal, and transgenerational levels. Course instruction emphasizes active-learning approaches, student presentations, and group projects. prereq: [3022 or BIOL 4003], [BIOC 3021 or BIOC 4331] or instr consent
GCD 8151 - Cellular Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Credits: 2.0 -4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall
This course introduces graduate students to fundamental concepts of Biochemical Unity (Part 1) and Cell Theory (Part 2). For Part 1, we will discuss matter of life, equilibrium, entropy & law of mass action, two state systems, random walks & diffusion, rate equations of chemical reactions, and explore how they relate to regulation of biological networks (gene regulation and signal transduction). For Part 2 we will focus on properties of biological membranes, membrane trafficking, protein import & degradation, nuclear structures and their function, as well as molecular motors, cytoskeletal dynamics, and mitosis. The course assumes students have had previous undergraduate courses in cell biology, biochemistry and genetics. prereq: [[[4034 or 8121 or BioC 8002], Biol 4004] or BMBB or MCDBG grad student] or instr consent
MICA 8002 - Structure, Function, and Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Structure, function, and metabolism of microorganisms. Microbial genetics. Molecular virology. prereq: [One undergrad or grad course each in [microbiology, genetics, biochemistry]] or instr consent
MICB 4131 - Immunology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: MicB 4131/VPM 4131
Typically offered: Every Fall
Molecular, genetic and cellular basis for innate and adaptive immune responses. The immune systems role in; transplantation, autoimmune disease, cancer immunotherapy, vaccinololgy, acquired and genetic immunodeficiencies. Prereq: Biol 2003 or Biol 1009 and [Junior or senior]
MICB 4151 - Molecular and Genetic Bases for Microbial Diseases
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Genetic basis of microbial pathogenesis. Effect of gene transfer and regulation on evolution of microbial pathogens and capacity to colonize, induce disease. Biochemical and cellular interactions between bacteria and human hosts. prereq: MICB 3301 AND [BIOL4003 OR PMB4131 OR Molecular Biology (BIOL 3020 or BIOL 3025 or BIOL 3015)]
MICB 4171 - Biology, Genetics, and Pathogenesis of Viruses
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: MicB 4141W/4171
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Spring
Structure, attachment, entry. Genome replication/mRNA production by RNA viruses. Reverse transcription. DNA virus templates. Replication of DNA virus genomes. Processing of viral pre-mRNA. Translational control. Assembly, host defense, tumor viruses, pathogenesis, HIV, antivirals. prereq: Biol 2003 and Biol 4003 and [MicB 4131 or instructor permission]
MICB 4215 - Advanced Laboratory: Microbial Physiology and Diversity
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Isolation/cultivation of wide variety of bacteria. Physiological experiments illustrate characteristic features of microorganisms. prereq: MICB 3301 AND Microbiology major or minor; priority for seats from waitlist to graduating Microbiology majors
MICB 4235 - Advanced Laboratory: Virology, Immunology, and Microbial Genetics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Techniques, experimental methods in microbial genetics, immunology. Virology used to study microbes/interactions with host. prereq: Micb 3301 and [Bioc 3022 or Bioc 4331] and [MicB 4171 prereq or concurrent registration or permission]
MICE 5035 - Personal Microbiome Analysis
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Personal Microbiome Analysis, an introduction to the computational exploration and analysis of your inner microbial community, also known as your microbiome. In this course, you will have the opportunity to explore your own microbiome using visualization and analysis tools. Sequencing your own microbiome is encouraged but not required for the course. Introductory biology or genetics is recommended: BIOL 1009, GCD 3022 or BIOL 4003.
MICE 8920 - Teaching Practicum
Credits: 1.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Supervised experience in classroom, laboratory, and/or recitation instruction; develops skills in effective use of instructional techniques, materials, tests, and measurements. prereq: Grad MicE major
PMB 8123 - Research Ethics in the Plant and Environmental Sciences
Credits: 0.5 [max 0.5]
Grading Basis: S-N or Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
History/values relating to research/scholarship. Social responsibility/reporting misconduct. Authorship plagiarism. Peer review. Copyright/intellectual property. Conflicts of interest. Research data management. Fiscal responsibility/management. Environmental health/safety. Research involving humans/animals. Mentorship presentations by faculty and invited speakers. Meets first seven weeks of spring semester. prereq: Grad student in [applied plant sciences or plant pathology or plant biological sciences or soil science]
STAT 5021 - Statistical Analysis
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Intensive introduction to statistical methods for graduate students needing statistics as a research technique. prereq: college algebra or instr consent; credit will not be granted if credit has been received for STAT 3011
BBE 4713 - Biological Process Engineering
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BBE 4713/BBE 5713
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
Material/energy balances. Homogeneous reactions of bioprocess engineering/biological systems. Fermentation engineering, reactor design. Filtration, centrifugation, separation, absorption, extraction, chromatography. Biorefining. Conversion of biomass. prereq: [3033, [4013 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4013], upper div CSE] or instr consent
BBE 5713 - Biological Process Engineering
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BBE 4713/BBE 5713
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Spring
Material/energy balances. Homogeneous reactions of bioprocess engineering and biological systems. Fermentation engineering, reactor design fundamentals. Filtration, centrifugation, separation, absorption, extraction, chromatography. Biorefining. Conversion of biomass into bioenergy, biochemicals, and biomaterials. prereq: [3033, [4013 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4013], or instr consent
BIOC 4125 - Laboratory in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BioC 4125/BioC 4185/Biol 4125/
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Summer
This molecular biology laboratory course is designed to give students hands-on experience performing common techniques used in modern molecular biology, as well as the background information needed to understand what kind of information can be obtained by using them. Because of the dual nature of this course, a portion of the laboratory time will be spent on lectures explaining the theory behind the techniques being used as well as practical aspects of experimental design. In addition, readings will be assigned that explain the history and principles behind some of the techniques used. Basic recombinant DNA techniques: methods for growing, isolating, and purifying recombinant DNA and cloning vectors, DNA sequencing and sequence analysis, gene expression, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), other current techniques. prereq: Biol 3015 or Biol 3020 or Biol 3025 or Bioc 3021 or Bioc 3022 or Bioc 4331 or Biol 4003 or instructor consent
BIOC 4331 - Biochemistry I: Structure, Catalysis, and Metabolism in Biological Systems
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Course Equivalencies: BioC 3021/BioC 3022/BioC 4331/
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Advanced survey of structure/catalysis, metabolism/bioenergetics. prereq: (BIOL 1009 or 2003 or equiv) AND (Chem 2302 or CHEM 2081/2085 or equiv)
BIOC 4332 - Biochemistry II: Molecular Mechanisms of Signal Transduction and Gene Expression
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Advanced survey of molecular biology. Mechanisms of gene action/biological regulation. prereq: BioC 4331 or Bioc 3201 or BioC 3022
BIOC 4521 - Introduction to Physical Biochemistry
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Physical chemical principles, their applications in biochemistry. Thermodynamics, kinetics, spectroscopy, solution dynamics as applied to biochemical reactions/ biopolymers. prereq: 4331 recommended, (Chem 1081 or 1061 and 1065) AND (Physics 1221 or 1201W or 1301W) required
BIOC 5352 - Biotechnology and Bioengineering for Biochemists
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: BioC 5352/MicB 5352
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Periodic Spring
Protein biotechnology. Microorganisms used as hosts for protein expression, protein expression, and engineering methods. Production of enzymes of industrial interest. Applications of protein biotechnology in bioelectronics. Formulation of therapeutic biopharmaceuticals. Recommended prerequisites: Biochemistry (BiOC 3021 or 3022 or 4331) and Microbiology MICB 3301
BIOC 5361 - Microbial Genomics and Bioinformatics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Introduction to genomics. Emphasizes microbial genomics. Sequencing methods, sequence analysis, genomics databases, genome mapping, prokaryotic horizontal gene transfer, genomics in biotechnology, intellectual property issues. Hands-on introduction to UNIX shell scripting, genomic data analysis using R and Excel in a computer lab setting. prereq: College-level courses in [organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology]
BIOC 8084 - Research and Literature Reports
Credits: 1.0 [max 5.0]
Grading Basis: S-N or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Current developments. prereq: Grad BMBB major or instr consent
BIOL 4003 - Genetics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Biol 4003/GCD 3022
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Genetic information, its transmission from parents to offspring, its expression in cells/organisms, and its course in populations. prereq: Biol 2003/2003H or BioC 3021 or BioC 4331 or grad
BIOL 4004 - Cell Biology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Biol 4004/GCD 3033/4005W
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Processes fundamental to cells. Emphasizes eukaryotic cells. Assembly/function of membranes/organelles. Cell division, cell form/movement, intercellular communication, transport, secretion pathways. Cancer cells, differentiated cells. prereq: Completion of Biol 4003 is preferred, Biol2003/2003H or Biol4003 or grad
CHEN 5751 - Biochemical Engineering
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Chemical engineering principles applied to analysis/design of complex cellular/enzyme processes. Quantitative framework for design of cells for production of proteins, synthesis of antibodies with mammalian cells, or degradation of toxic compounds in contaminated soil. prereq: [3005 or 4005], [concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3006 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4006], [concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 3102 or concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 4102]
FSCN 4121 - Food Microbiology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: OPT No Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
Microorganisms involved in food-borne disease, food fermentations, and food spoilage. Methods for their control/detection. Food microbiology. Foodborne pathogens. Microbial food spoilage. Control of microorganisms in food. prereq: BIOC 3021, [2021 or VBS 2032 or MICB 3301]
FSCN 4122 - Food Fermentations and Biotechnology
Credits: 2.0 [max 2.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Major food fermentations important for food industry. Microbiological components. Impact of biotechnology on food production. Genetic tools. Improvement of microbes used in food production by biotechnological approaches. prereq: [MICB 3301, BIOL 4003] or instr consent
GCD 5036 - Molecular Cell Biology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall
Analysis of dynamic cellular activities at the molecular level in cell biological fields that are experiencing new research advances not yet reflected in textbooks. Significant emphasis is placed on understanding the experimental basis of our current knowledge of cellular processes through analysis of scientific papers. Project and presentation-based assessments of learning outcomes. prereq: BIOL 4004 or GCD 4005W or grad
GCD 8131 - Advanced Molecular Genetics and Genomics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Literature-based course in modern molecular genetic and genomic analysis. Students will gain a deep understanding of the fundamental molecular mechanisms controlling inheritance in biological systems. Students will gain a facility in thinking critically and creatively about how genes work at cellular, organismal, and transgenerational levels. Course instruction emphasizes active-learning approaches, student presentations, and group projects. prereq: [3022 or BIOL 4003], [BIOC 3021 or BIOC 4331] or instr consent
GCD 8151 - Cellular Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Credits: 2.0 -4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F only
Typically offered: Every Fall
This course introduces graduate students to fundamental concepts of Biochemical Unity (Part 1) and Cell Theory (Part 2). For Part 1, we will discuss matter of life, equilibrium, entropy & law of mass action, two state systems, random walks & diffusion, rate equations of chemical reactions, and explore how they relate to regulation of biological networks (gene regulation and signal transduction). For Part 2 we will focus on properties of biological membranes, membrane trafficking, protein import & degradation, nuclear structures and their function, as well as molecular motors, cytoskeletal dynamics, and mitosis. The course assumes students have had previous undergraduate courses in cell biology, biochemistry and genetics. prereq: [[[4034 or 8121 or BioC 8002], Biol 4004] or BMBB or MCDBG grad student] or instr consent
MICA 8002 - Structure, Function, and Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Structure, function, and metabolism of microorganisms. Microbial genetics. Molecular virology. prereq: [One undergrad or grad course each in [microbiology, genetics, biochemistry]] or instr consent
MICB 4131 - Immunology
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: MicB 4131/VPM 4131
Typically offered: Every Fall
Molecular, genetic and cellular basis for innate and adaptive immune responses. The immune systems role in; transplantation, autoimmune disease, cancer immunotherapy, vaccinololgy, acquired and genetic immunodeficiencies. Prereq: Biol 2003 or Biol 1009 and [Junior or senior]
MICB 4151 - Molecular and Genetic Bases for Microbial Diseases
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Genetic basis of microbial pathogenesis. Effect of gene transfer and regulation on evolution of microbial pathogens and capacity to colonize, induce disease. Biochemical and cellular interactions between bacteria and human hosts. prereq: MICB 3301 AND [BIOL4003 OR PMB4131 OR Molecular Biology (BIOL 3020 or BIOL 3025 or BIOL 3015)]
MICB 4215 - Advanced Laboratory: Microbial Physiology and Diversity
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Grading Basis: A-F or Aud
Typically offered: Every Fall
Isolation/cultivation of wide variety of bacteria. Physiological experiments illustrate characteristic features of microorganisms. prereq: MICB 3301 AND Microbiology major or minor; priority for seats from waitlist to graduating Microbiology majors
MICB 4235 - Advanced Laboratory: Virology, Immunology, and Microbial Genetics
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Techniques, experimental methods in microbial genetics, immunology. Virology used to study microbes/interactions with host. prereq: Micb 3301 and [Bioc 3022 or Bioc 4331] and [MicB 4171 prereq or concurrent registration or permission]
BIOC 5309 - Biocatalysis and Biodegradation
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Course Equivalencies: Bioc 5309/MicE 5309
Typically offered: Every Spring
Fundamentals of microbial enzymes/metabolism as pertaining to biodegradation of environmental pollutants/biosynthesis for making commodity chemicals. Practical examples. Guest speakers from industry.
CHEN 8754 - Systems Analysis of Biological Processes
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Relating biological processes at molecular level to physiological level of cells/organisms/populations. Methodology for analyzing data. Quantification of molecular interplays. prereq: Grad student in [life sciences or chemical/physical sciences or engineering]; ChEn students must take A/F
MICE 5035 - Personal Microbiome Analysis
Credits: 3.0 [max 3.0]
Typically offered: Every Spring
Personal Microbiome Analysis, an introduction to the computational exploration and analysis of your inner microbial community, also known as your microbiome. In this course, you will have the opportunity to explore your own microbiome using visualization and analysis tools. Sequencing your own microbiome is encouraged but not required for the course. Introductory biology or genetics is recommended: BIOL 1009, GCD 3022 or BIOL 4003.
MICE 8920 - Teaching Practicum
Credits: 1.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall, Spring & Summer
Supervised experience in classroom, laboratory, and/or recitation instruction; develops skills in effective use of instructional techniques, materials, tests, and measurements. prereq: Grad MicE major
PMB 8123 - Research Ethics in the Plant and Environmental Sciences
Credits: 0.5 [max 0.5]
Grading Basis: S-N or Aud
Typically offered: Every Spring
History/values relating to research/scholarship. Social responsibility/reporting misconduct. Authorship plagiarism. Peer review. Copyright/intellectual property. Conflicts of interest. Research data management. Fiscal responsibility/management. Environmental health/safety. Research involving humans/animals. Mentorship presentations by faculty and invited speakers. Meets first seven weeks of spring semester. prereq: Grad student in [applied plant sciences or plant pathology or plant biological sciences or soil science]
STAT 5021 - Statistical Analysis
Credits: 4.0 [max 4.0]
Typically offered: Every Fall & Spring
Intensive introduction to statistical methods for graduate students needing statistics as a research technique. prereq: college algebra or instr consent; credit will not be granted if credit has been received for STAT 3011