Course Overview

The course MATV1007, Microbiology and Biotechnology, is a foundation course at level I, worth 7.5 credits. It is scheduled to start in the spring of 2026 and will last for one semester. The language of instruction is Norwegian, and the course will be held in Trondheim.

Course Content

The course covers various topics, including:

• Cell biology: morphology, size, cytoplasmic membrane, cell wall, surface structures, internal structures, motion
• Microorganisms: bacteria, fungi, and viruses
• Metabolism, nutritional requirements, culture media
• Microbial growth: cell division, population growth, measurement of growth, environmental factors, basic techniques for cultivation of microorganisms
• Control of microbial growth: physical and chemical control
• Microbial taxonomy with description of selected groups of microorganisms
• The role of microorganisms in the cycles of nature and their industrial use
• Biotechnology: Recombinant DNA technology (enzymes, vectors, CRISPR), PCR, DNA sequencing, DNA analyses (electrophoresis, hybridization, including DNA fingerprinting), micromatrices, mutations, and gene regulation
• Ethics: Consequences of application/choice of biotechnological methods

Learning Outcome

Upon completion of the course, the candidate will have knowledge of:

• Microbial taxonomy and general characteristics of selected microorganisms
• The structure of viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotic cells and the function of the most important cellular components
• Microbial metabolism and nutritional requirements
• Microbial growth and how microbial growth can be measured and controlled
• The role of microorganisms in the carbon and nitrogen cycles
• Various techniques and tools for editing, amplifying, and analyzing DNA
• Different types of mutations and their consequences
• Gene regulation in bacterial cells
• Ethical consequences following the use of genetic engineering methods

The candidate will also have skills in:

• Sterile technique, cultivation, and isolation of microorganisms
• Isolating and amplifying DNA from bacterial cells and separating fragments of DNA by means of gel electrophoresis

The candidate will be able to evaluate and communicate results from laboratory work in writing.

Learning Methods and Activities

The course includes:

• Lectures (60 hours)
• Self-study (80 hours)
• Compulsory laboratory exercises (24 hours)
• Written exercises (30 hours)

Compulsory Assignments

The compulsory assignments include:

• Laboratory work
• Written exercises

Evaluation

Compulsory work requirements include all practical laboratory exercises with reports and 5 of 6 theoretical exercises, which must be approved for admission to the exam. The examination arrangement is a school exam, and the grade is given in letter grades.

Specific Conditions

Admission to a program of study is required, specifically:

• Chemistry - Engineering (FTHINGKJ)
• Food Science, Technology, and Sustainability (MTMAT)

Recommended Previous Knowledge

Recommended previous knowledge includes:

• TKJE 1002 General chemistry
• User course in mathematics A

Required Previous Knowledge

Admission to the course requires admission to the study program Bachelor in chemical engineering (NTNU, Trondheim) or Bachelor in Food Science, Technology, and Sustainability (NTNU, Trondheim). Other students may be admitted depending on course capacity.

Course Materials

Information about course materials will be given at the start of the semester.

Credit Reductions

The course has academic overlap with the courses MATV1008 and BTA1001. If a student takes overlapping courses, they will receive a credit reduction in the course where they have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject Areas

The course is classified under Food Subjects.

Examination Details

The ordinary examination will be held in the spring of 2026, and the re-sit examination will be held in the summer of 2026. The examination is a school exam, and the weighting is 100/100. The examination aids allowed are specified by code D, and the duration is 4 hours. The exam system used is Inspera Assessment.

Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU)

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Overview:

Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU) is a comprehensive research university located in Trondheim, Norway. It is one of the largest universities in Norway, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines. NTNU is known for its strong focus on research and innovation, particularly in areas like technology, engineering, and natural sciences.

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Services Offered:

Studies:

NTNU offers a variety of programs, including Master's programs in English, exchange programs, PhD opportunities, courses, career development, continuing education, and application processes.

Research and Innovation:

NTNU is a leading research institution with a focus on research excellence, strategic research areas, and innovation resources.

Life and Housing:

NTNU provides support for students and researchers in terms of housing, student life, and campus experiences.

Other Services:

NTNU offers various services like university museum, library, alumni network, and Norwegian language learning programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Research Focus:

NTNU is renowned for its research excellence and its commitment to innovation.

Wide Range of Programs:

The university offers a diverse selection of academic programs across various disciplines.

International Environment:

NTNU attracts students and researchers from around the world, fostering a global learning environment.

Beautiful Location:

Trondheim is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, offering a unique and enriching student experience.

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Academic Programs:

Master's Programs in English:

NTNU offers a variety of Master's programs taught in English, attracting international students.

PhD Opportunities:

The university provides opportunities for doctoral studies in various research areas.

Courses:

NTNU offers a wide range of courses, including both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

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Other:

Campuses:

NTNU has campuses in Trondheim, Gjøvik, and Ålesund, offering diverse learning environments.

Strategic Research Areas:

NTNU focuses on strategic research areas like energy, health, and sustainable development.

Innovation Resources:

The university provides resources and support for innovation and entrepreneurship.