Outline

Overview

Microbes are key agents of global change, they provide resources for industry and biotechnology, and have critical impacts on human and animal health. This unit takes the fundamental concepts and skills learned in 2nd year microbiology units and weaves them together with strands from environmental, industrial, and medical microbiology in four sections: (1) ‘Concepts and Tools’ will strengthen foundational knowledge of the molecular biology, biochemistry and physiology of microbes. (2) ‘Microbes in the Environment’ will examine how microbes are used to manage soil and water quality in natural and polluted environments and how they contribute to agriculture. (3) ‘Microbes in Industry’ will explore biotechnology and fermentation in the microbial manufacture of various commodities (e.g. ethanol), and in wastewater treatment. (4) ‘Microbes in Health’ will focus on understanding the microbiomes of humans and animals, and how these can be manipulated to enhance health. Much of the content in each section will be delivered in student-led seminars, which will develop skills in critical analysis of research papers, collaboration, and discussion. The lecture content is integrated with a practical lab component consisting of two ongoing hands-on projects in microbial biotechnology. These projects will further develop core skills required in many microbiology labs (e.g. safe handling of cultures, microscopy, PCR) and will introduce more advanced skills (plasmid transformation, protein purification, SDS-PAGE, DNA sequencing, bioinformatics) relevant to industrial and research careers. Overall, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the importance of microbes in industry and the environment, and the practical skills to apply this knowledge in a range of future professions.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	6 credit points from (MIMI2X02 or MICR2X31 or MEDS2004 or MICR2X22 or BMED2404)
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	MICR3042 or MICR3942 or MICR3952
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Ziggy Marzinelli, e.marzinelli@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Written final exam assessing all course content.	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	In-class written task In-class written task; Two written tasks (10% each) based on analyses of case studies presented in the lectures/lectorials. Multiple weeks (wk 5, wk 8).	20%	Multiple weeks	Two tasks, 40 min each.	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	In-class quiz Ten online quizzes during second lecture/lectorial of the week based on first lecture of that week. Multiple weeks (wks 2-4,6,9-12).	10%	Multiple weeks	10 quizzes, 5 min each.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Attendance - accreditation or faculty requirement	Attendance (lecture/lectorials) Attendance to at least 80% of Thursday's lectures/lectorials.	0%	Multiple weeks	10 (out of 13) x 1 hours	Not applicable
Outcomes assessed:
Attendance - accreditation or faculty requirement	Attendance (practicals) Attendance to a min. of 80% of all practicals.	0%	Multiple weeks	9 (out of 11) x 4 hours	Not applicable
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Research Presentation Research presentation; Group presentation on microbiological research	10%	Week 07 Due date: 15 Sep 2026 at 13:00	10 min	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Experimental design	Report Written laboratory report based on the research practicals.	20%	Week 13 Due date: 03 Nov 2026 at 23:59	10 pages max.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Details of all assessments, such as rubrics, submission mode/dates, late penalties, etc., available in Canvas.

Final exam: 40%. End-of-semester exam assessing all components of the unit. The exam will cover all material in the unit from both lectures and practical classes.
This assessment is compulsory and a hurdle task (at 40%). Failure to attend, attempt or submit will result in the award of an AF grade.
If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

In-class quizzes: 10%. Weekly, in-class quizzes testing your understanding of the content of the lectures and lectorials (10 quizzes). These are run in person, at the start of the second lecture of each week.

In-class written task: 20%. Two written tasks (10% each) based on analyses of case studies presented in the lectures/lectorials.

Research presentations: 10%. This is a group presentation, presenting on the background, hypotheses, methods, results and interpretation of the research practicals.

Report: 20%. A submitted written report based on the aims, methodologies, results and interpretation of the lab activities (20%).

Attendance at practical classes is required.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2021 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject as well as a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At D level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the unit material and can identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At P level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge of the subject and can accurately identify key theoretical concepts.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Written assignments submitted late without permission (see Special Considerations: http://sydney.edu.au/students/special-consideration-and-arrangements.html): A penalty of 5% of the maximum awardable marks will be applied to late work for every calendar day up to and including 10 calendar days after the due date. The penalty will be calculated by first marking the work and then subtracting 5% of the maximum awardable mark for each calendar day after the due date. A mark of zero will be awarded for work submitted more than 10 calendar days after the due date.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Weekly	Key concepts in microbiology and biotechnology, microbial ecology and environmental microbiology, microbes in soil and agriculture, microbes in industry, microbes in health.	Lecture (13 hr)
	Case studies based on weekly lecture material. Mandatory (>80% attendance) lectures and 'lectorials' putting the theoretical content in scenario-based/problem-solving situations to engage students.	Lecture (13 hr)
	Working in PC2 labs, key microbiology lab techniques relevant for environmental microbiology and biotechnology.	Practical (44 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance and class requirements

Students are expected to attend at least 80% of timetabled activities as defined in the unit of study outline, particularly the practicals and the lectures/lectorials on Thursday mornings. A student may fail this unit of study because of inadequate attendance.

Practical attendance is compulsory.

Lectures/lectorials will form the basis of in-class quizzes and in-class written tasks, as well as the final exam, so attendance at lectures is very important.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Explain the impact of microbes in different contexts: health, environmental and industrial.
LO2. Effectively communicate knowledge of microbial activities in oral, written and visual formats, and be able to productively contribute to discussions on real-world topics involving microbiology.
LO3. Utilise practical skills essential for microbiology laboratory work, including aseptic technique, safe handling of cultures, microscopy, and molecular techniques.
LO4. Plan and execute experiments in microbiology and molecular biology and appreciate the context and professional significance of managing workflows and experimental timelines.
LO5. Correctly use LabArchives electronic notebooks to demonstrate the importance of accurate, truthful, and timely record keeping and data management.
LO6. Analyse, evaluate, and synthesise microbiological and molecular data, including managing and explaining the limitations inherent in different experimental and analytical methods.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Lecture content and scheduling of assessment tasks has been revised based on student feedback.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Work, health and safety requirements

This WHS information is for information only as it applies to standard practical delivery.

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General laboratory safety rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
A laboratory coat and closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Many of the microorganisms that will be studied in class may cause disease if mishandled. Therefore, great care to maintain good microbiological techniques must be taken when handling cultures, slides and other materials that contain or have been in contact with living microorganisms.

Behaviour and activities in the laboratory must comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2243.3:2010: Safety in laboratories Part 3: Microbiological aspects and containment facilities. The Standard is available via the link under Prac Resources in the Canvas MIMI2x02 Microbes, Infection & Immunity site. As you will gain experience handling potentially pathogenic microbes in this unit of study, your immune status is important. You are strongly advised to contact the unit coordinator if you have any predisposing condition or issue that might be relevant to your participation in these practical sessions.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

MICR3052: Applied Microbiology and Biotech

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links