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Soil Microbiology


Course Description

Microorganisms in soil and their effect on nutrient recycling, especially as it relates to environmental quality and crop production.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students are required to write a term paper that will be presented at the end of the class. A detailed guideline for the term paper is provided at the beginning of the class. The term paper will constitute 15% of their final grade.


Athena Title

Soil Microbiology


Semester Course Offered

Offered every year.


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Student Learning Outcomes

  • Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to identify and articulate the contributions of key scientists who played significant role in the development of soil microbiology.
  • Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to identify and discuss the major groups of microorganisms in soils.
  • Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to articulate the impacts of various soil properties on microbial growth and activity.
  • Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to articulate the role of soil microorganisms in nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition.
  • Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to articulate the role of microorganisms in growing crops and waste disposal.
  • Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to acquire practice knowledge of various techniques for measurements of microbial function, abundance, and composition.

Topical Outline

  • Overview and historic perspective
  • Soils as habitat for microorganisms
  • Microbial growth and metabolism
  • Soil microbial community
  • Methods for studying soil microorganisms
  • Carbon cycle and soil organic matter
  • Phosphorous cycle and management
  • Sulfur and other nutrient cycles
  • Bioremediation and composting
  • Global gases and soil microorganisms

Syllabus