In this course, students learn of the vital role of microbes in the environment with particular emphasis on marine habitats. They will explore the dynamic interactions that take place between microbial communities, the surroundings and higher organisms. A series of lectures and practical sessions cover key themes in contemporary environmental microbiology including sensing and adaptive responses of bacteria, biogeochemical cycling and microbial communities and interaction. Laboratory sessions allow students to gain experience in the experimental design and practical skills of research in the context of a mini-research project that will be specific to current marine microbial issues. Students taking this course will have the option of additional assessment task in the form of an oral presentation or literature review.