Bioremediation is the treatment of contaminated soils,
sediments, and groundwater by microorganisms, fungi, plants, or
components from these organisms. Overview of organism
physiology, genetic engineering, and details of environmental
health hazards amenable to bioremediation. Exploration of case
studies that exemplify approaches to bioremediation.
Athena Title
Bioremediation
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in EHSC 4090E
Prerequisite
BIOL 1103 or BIOL 1103E or BIOL 2103H or BIOL 2103S or BIOL 1107 or BIOL 1107E or BIOL 2107H
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will be able to evaluate exposure pathways and health impacts of contaminants at industrial sites, emphasizing environmental justice considerations.
Students will be able to analyze biological uptake mechanisms of pollutants and synthesize evidence-based prevention strategies.
Students will be able to design microbial and phytoremediation strategies for RCRA and Superfund sites that address both technical efficacy and social equity.
Students will be able to critique traditional and modern bioremediation technologies through comparative analysis of environmental and public health outcomes.
Students will be able to synthesize peer-reviewed research findings through academic presentations and group discussions.
Students will be able to formulate comprehensive bioremediation plans that integrate biosafety protocols, regulatory compliance, and community protection measures.
Topical Outline
1. Environmental Contaminants and Their Sources
- Types of contamination at Superfund and industrial sites
- Exposure pathways and risk assessment
- Environmental justice considerations
2. Health Effects and Toxicological Impacts
- Human health impacts
- Ecological effects
- Community vulnerability and environmental racism
3. Biological Mechanisms of Pollutant Uptake
- Cellular and molecular mechanisms
- Bioavailability and biotransformation
- Prevention and treatment strategies
