This five-year course includes an integrated foundation year, after which the syllabus follows that of the standard four-year course, MBiol Microbiology (C509). Our Microbiology degree courses have a strong practical emphasis, and you will learn a wide variety of techniques in areas such as microbial genetics, biochemistry and propagation. The study of microbiology requires expertise in immunology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology and research methods, and you will receive training in these throughout your degree. You will learn about worldwide concerns such as antimicrobial resistance and emerging pathogens, as well as the beneficial use of microbes in biotechnology for food production and agriculture. Throughout the course there is a strong focus on practical training in microbiological and molecular techniques, which will prepare you for a career as a professional scientist. There are practical modules in Years One and Two and an advanced research project makes up one third of your final year. You will be taught by passionate teaching staff who are experts in their fields and who conduct research in all areas of microbiology. You will also have access to our state-of-the-art facilities that include a bio-imaging and microscopy suite, modern laboratories and fermentation facilities. In addition to these modern indoor facilities, Aberystwyth University has farms and woodlands for studying environmental microbes and those that impact on animal health.Our StaffThe majority of teaching staff in the Department of Life Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within industry. The Department has a large number of research only staff with whom students may have contact.