This module is designed to leverage the knowledge of students that have already been introduced to basic concepts of microbiology, principles, and aseptic techniques. This module will introduce microbe metabolism, in terms of requirements and end products, and will encompass biotechnological applications in hands-on activities.

The syllabus is comprised of the following topics: Introduction to metabolism - nutritional requirements of microbes; primary metabolism of carbohydrates, nitrogen and lipids; primary and secondary metabolite production including aspects of pathogens and pathogenicity; mechanism of formation, induction over microbial growth cycle and mode of action of antibiotics, bacteriocins, and biotransformation of intermediates into antibiotics; bioinformatical tools to predict functions and metabolic products Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as metabolic factories - Species and strain characteristics, and their application in industrial food production; metabolic end-products and their contribution to flavour formation/quality in fermented foods. Yeast as metabolic factories - Species and strain characteristics, and their application in industrial production; end products in industrial fermentations. Moulds as metabolic factories - Species and strain characteristics, and their application in industrial production; end products in industrial fermentations, cheese, industrial enzyme production, waste degradation; Moulds in biofuel and pharmaceutical processes Microbiome based therapeutics (MBT)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - Define and differentiate the fundamental characteristics of major groups of lactic acid bacteria, yeasts and moulds. - Recognize and explain the key requirements for bacterial growth and the formation of the end-product of interest - Apply the understanding of microbe metabolism to predict outcomes of microbiological interactions in industrial applications - Discuss the significance of "microbes as metabolic factories" in biotechnology, food chain and health

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - Appreciate how the knowledge of microbes' metabolism and their products can be used in favour of a sustainable society. - Value the biotechnological applications of "Microbes as Metabolic Factories"

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: - Perform microbiology experiments, analyse data and results, discuss and report the findings. - Plan and modify parameters in microbial fermentation processes, and work cooperatively in groups to compare and contrast findings.

The module is delivered in the form of 1hr lecture (in 2 sessions) and a 2-hour laboratory (in one session). The students will acquire knowledge of relevant concepts, principles, equipment and methodologies. Develop the ability to evaluate and interpret relevant data both qualitative and quantitative and the capacity to use a variety of methods to communicate relevant information cogently and analytically. The lab report will require a review of scientific literature. News breaking updates on microbiology will be communicated to the students.