About this honours subject area

Microbiology is the study of organisms that are too small to be seen by the unaided human eye, include protozoa, algae, fungi, bacteria and viruses. Microorganisms are more widely distributed than any other life form and influence virtually all biological processes. Modern microbiology is interdisciplinary; a basic biological science, providing models to advance understanding of the chemical and physical principles behind living processes, and an applied science, dealing with aspects of medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, food technology and pollution control. As part of the LIFE honours course, you’ll undertake an original project under the guidance of expert academic supervisors, developing advanced technical, analytical, and critical thinking skills. The LIFE honours course is strongly recommended for any student wishing to enter a research career or undertake further work leading to a higher degree.

Microbiology honours projects are available to any student with a major in Microbiology, or >12 credit points of microbiology units plus a major in a related area of life science.

Unit of study requirements for LIFE Honours in Microbiology: completion of 36 credit points of project work and 12 credit points of advanced coursework. 

For further details about LIFE honours, please get in touch with the honours coordinator, Dr. Sandro Fernandes Ataide. For more information on microbiology you may also contact Associate Professor Andrew Holmes.

Applying for Honours in Microbiology

Application to Honours is a two-step process. You first submit an Expression of Interest for a supervisor and project to the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, then apply for admission through the Faculty of Science.

1. You can search for a supervisor and browse available projects on the EoI portal link
2. If your Expression of Interest (EoI) is accepted by the supervisor, you will receive an email and PDF confirmation of supervision for your nominated Honours project.
3. After your EoI is approved by your supervisor, you will receive an acknowledgment email which you should attach to your application - see applying for honours.
4. You will be notified of your confirmed supervisor shortly after EoI’s close. Late applications for available supervisors will be considered in the order received.