Diagnostic Microbiology

Overview

The diagnosis of microbial diseases, and the pathogens causing them, is essential in ensuring timely and effective treatment to the affect human, animal, or plant. This module will give students a foundation in the diagnostic techniques used to diagnose diseases caused by microbial pathogens across human, animal, and plant hosts. It will explore the current methods use for bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections and utilise case studies for in-depth exploration of different methods and pathogens. Students will also explore how new diagnostic devices are developed, and how they are assessed and approved for safety and efficacy. Students will apply this knowledge in the development of practicals skills over laboratory sessions that will compare different methods of identification of a bacterial pathogen.

Learning Objectives

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

LO1: Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of microbial diagnostic methodologies.

LO2: Describe and explain the differences between methods for diagnosis of human, plant, and animal microbial diseases.

LO3: Describe and explain the differences between the methods for diagnosis of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

LO4: Critical evaluate current diagnostic methods used in human, animal, and plan diagnostics.

LO5: Demonstrate an understanding of the internal and external pressures facing microbial diagnostic laboratories and how these shapes their current and future practices.

LO6: Critical discuss the process of developing new diagnostic devices and workflows for existing and emerging pathogens.

LO7: Employ problem-solving skills during the completion of laboratory practicals.

LO8: Demonstrate a critical understanding of strengths and weaknesses of diagnostic methods when applying them to a practical case study in laboratory classes.

Skills

Skills acquired and developed in this module will include transferable skills including: (T1) written communication; (T2) critical analysis and evaluation of scientific data and literature; (T3) problem solving; and (T4) time management; and subject specific skills including: (S1) interpretation of diagnostic test results; (S2) understanding of microbial diagnostic workflows; and (S3) microbial culture from diagnostic specimens.

Assessment

Submission of all continuous assessment and written examination. All laboratory practicals need to be attended for completion of continuous assessments.