The Medical Microbiology DeCal explores the many ways that bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses interact with human health. Each week, we will focus on a new group of organisms and the positive or negative impacts they have had on various specialties of medicine. Some of the many topics we will explore are the impact of yeasted breads on ancient human nutrition and the role of malaria in shaping human genetics. Part of each meeting will be devoted to discussing and analyzing scientific readings.

There are no exams in this course; instead, there will be a short mid-semester and final paper designed to help students critically analyze scientific literature. The class will be graded on a P/NP basis that considers submission of these reports, attendance, and participation. Two absences are permitted in the course, while any further absences will require a makeup assignment.

There are no prerequisites for this course! The intention is to expose students with all levels of background to exciting concepts in medical microbiology. By the end of the semester, students will have a greater understanding of the ways in which a variety of fascinating microbes affect human health.

Enrollment is first come, first served. The course enrollment code is 15200. Students can enroll anytime before the add/drop period ends. The first class meeting will be on Tuesday, January 23rd from 5-6:30pm in Etcheverry 3109.