Microbiology

Overview

Key facts

Microbiology degree at the University of Bergen is the study of microscopic organisms: bacteria, archaea, fungi, single-cell algae and protozoa, and includes also viruses. Fundamental to the field is the study of the microorganisms' properties and their functions in different environments. The field ranges from basic cell biological and molecular questions to ecology and the use of microorganisms in practical and commercial applications. Knowledge about microbiology is important in e.g. food industry, human and veterinary medicine, farming, oil industry, biotechnology and in relation to ecology and ecological processes in nature. Knowledge of microbiology therefore has large social implications and is also important for the understanding of the origin and diversity of life, and as a model for possible extraterrestrial life.

The Microbiology programme at the University of Bergen will enable you to enter into a wide range of positions where microbiology is relevant.

During the study the candidate will gain knowledge about:

• The most characteristic features of microorganisms; bacteria, archaea, fungi, microalga, protozoa and virus
• The functions and importance of microorganisms in different environments
• Interactions between microorganisms and between micro and macro-organisms (symbiosis), including their importance of development of deceases.
• Microbial diversity, physiology, metabolism, microbial food-webs and biogeochemical cycles.
• Microbial gene regulation and gene transfer mechanisms.
• The role of prokaryotes in the early evolution of life.
• The social applications of microbiology
• Basic methods and techniques used in microbiology, molecular technology and biotechnology.