General information

Abstract

s (50 points [25 points each]). You and your lab partner will together write abstracts for the two extended lab projects (Genetic analysis of prodigiosin biosynthesis; The nitrogen cycle in a biological filter). Details will be provided during the term. Discretionary (15 points). This will be based upon participation, group cooperation, workstation cleanup, punctuality,etc. Attendance. You are expected to attend all labs. If you are more than 15 minutes late for your lab, you will be counted as absent. One absence will be excused, but additional absences will incur a penalty of 10 points per absence. You will be allowed to attend a different section to make up one absence during the term if there is space in another section, and this must be arranged in advance. However, many of the projects are done in groups, and you will thus be responsible for completing those projects with those group members. Safety Most of the organisms with which we will work are non-pathogenic. However, you should take precautions that you would use as if you are working with known pathogens—one is never completely certain what an enrichment will yield from a heterogeneous source. Wash your hands frequently, don’t put your hands to your face when handling materials, and don’t pipette by mouth. The chemicals and stains that we routinely use in the microbiology laboratory are not particularly toxic, but, again, use due caution. Lab coats are not required, though we recommend that you use one or some other such covering while working in the lab. Invariably there are spills of stains, and these will permanently stain clothes. Open-toed shoes are not allowed in the lab. Absolutely NO FOOD, DRINK, OR GUM is allowed in the lab. In some cases we will be using organisms that are considered to be opportunistic pathogens (members of the normal microflora that are capable of initiating an infectious process but normally do not). In those exercises you will be given specific instructions for their handling, which include but are not limited to the use of gloves, wiping down lab benches with disinfectant at the end of the exercise, and disposal of all supplies that come in contact with the organisms into autoclave bags. Perhaps the greatest constant danger in the microbiology lab is the use of gas (Bunsen) burners. Long hair should be tied up or back, and clothing should not be excessively loose.