Module: Molecular Soil Ecology (3102-450)

Persons:

• Prof. Dr. Ellen Kandeler (verantwortlich)
• Dr. Sven Marhan (begleitend)
• apl ProfDr Frank Rasche (begleitend)
• Heike Haslwimmer (begleitend)

Degree Program:

• Agricultural Sciences - Soil Science (Master, since 01.10.2014)
  1. Semester, semi-elective
• Agricultural Sciences - Soil Science (Master, since 01.10.2014)
  3. Semester, semi-elective
• Crop Sciences - Plant Nutrition and Protection (Master, since 01.10.2014)
  3. Semester, elective

Prerequisites for Attendance:

Basic knowledge in soil biology, microbiology and ecology are neccessary. In addition, experiences in lab work are essential.

Sprache:

English

ECTS:

6 credits

Frequency:

every winter semester

Length of the Module:

3,5 weeks (after block 4)

Compulsory assignment:

Active participation (30%), presentation in groups (20%)

Final examination:

Written report in groups (50%)

Length of the examination:

45 minutes

Workload:

70 h presence + 130 h preparation at home + presentation and writing of a report = 200 h workload

Professional competences:

After successfully completing this lab course, students have an overview of molecular methods used in soil ecology. Students can apply molecular techniques in soil science, microbial ecology and environmental science and perform soil DNA extractions, quantitative PCR analyses of functional genes and molecular finger printing techniques.

Key competences:

Students enhance their organizational skills, self-reliance, time management and team work during the exercises and while preparing the presentation and written paper in groups (report). They are able to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical exercises. Students can critically judge their own results and critically and analytically read scientific literature, while generally improving their ability of exploring a scientific subject. While preparing the written paper and presentation, students improve their scientific articulateness, i.e. their written and oral expression/presentation skills.

Comments:

The number of participants is restricted to 10. For registration, please become a member of the ILIAS group (https://ilias.uni-hohenheim.de/ilias.php?ref_id=397362&cmdClass=ilrepositorygui&cmdNode=iv&baseClass=ilrepositorygui) or contact Dr. Marhan (sven.marhan@uni-hohenheim.de).

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