Course overview
This advanced course examines the molecular basis of host-pathogen interactions for bacterial and parasitic infections of significant global and medical importance. This includes how these interactions contribute to pathogenesis. The importance of vaccines, antimicrobial drugs, the microbiome and tools used to research and identify pathogens will also be discussed. The course structure includes tutorials and workshops which extend skills in exploring and critically assessing the scientific literature. This course will provide the theoretical basis for Microbiology and Immunology Practical III.
- Bacteria and the Host
- Infections, Antimicrobials and Resistance
- Parasites and Infections
Course learning outcomes
- Articulate molecular mechanisms underpinning the growth of bacterial and parasitic pathogens, and how they interact with the host and their environments
- Explain how bacterial and parasitic pathogens respond to and overcome control measures
- Critically evaluate contemporary experimental techniques and strategies used to investigate the biological mechanisms underpinning bacterial and parasitic pathology and survival
- Review, summarise and discuss research papers relevant to bacterial and parasitic infections of global importance
- Work collegially in small teams to understand scientific problems and processes, and communicate these effectively to staff and peers
- Use Gen-AI effectively and responsibly to assist in understanding theoretical concepts, and to construct a framework for an extended written piece
Degree list
The following degrees include this course