Prospectus

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Global Regulatory Networks in Bacteria (GRNB)

Course
2017-2018

Admission requirements

BSc in Biology or LST with a major in Microbiology or Molecular Biology. Other candidates should have a solid background in Molecular Biology.

Contact information

Coordinator: prof. Dr. G.P. van Wezel
Email: g.wezel@biology.leidenuniv.nl

Description

Series of lectures, selection of research papers on related topics and workshops will be given on understanding how global regulatory networks govern gene expression in bacteria. We will look at how environmental signals (e.g. nutrients, stress) are translated to switch sets of genes on and off, and how this affects metabolism, competence,development and antibiotic production. Furthermore (the control of) protein secretion will be discussed. This course includes writing of a research proposal.

At the end of the course students:

  • will have knowledge of the fundamental principles of global control of gene expression in bacteria

  • will have knowledge of technologies to analyse global gene expression profiles, such as microarrays, proteomics, and RNAseq.

  • will have an overview of the biotechnological applications of antibiotic-producing bacteria

  • will have knowledge of the problems of antimicrobial resistance and how we can manipulate bacteria to produce new bioactive compounds for drug development

  • will understand what is needed to write a succinct research proposal on a given subject.

  • can digest and present a summary of a scientific presentation with help of supporting literature

Mode of instruction

Lectures, guest lecture(s) and exercises

Language

English

Timetable

Schedule information can be found on the website of the programmes and on blackboard.

Literature

The course will be based on the presentations and on the scientific literature that will be provided during the lectures. Handouts of all presentations will be provided s PDF.

Examination

Written examination (50%)
Assignments, working in small groups on a project (33%)
Summary of guest lecture (17%)

Blackboard

Blackboard will be used for communication.

Reading list

The course will be based on the presentations and on the scientific literature that will be provided during the lectures. Handouts of all presentations will be provided s PDF.

Registration

In Usis (classnumber: 10109, deadline:18-2-2018)

Enroll in Blackboard

Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for more information on how to apply.