Molecular aspects of viral entry, replication, and assembly in host cells. Mechanisms by which viruses manipulate the hosts to multiply and cause disease.
Viruses are microscopic organisms that cause serious human, animal, and plant diseases worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic is caused by a virus. Therefore, learning about the viruses is relevant more than ever. There is, and will be a constant need for experienced virologists who can identify viruses, diagnose viral diseases, and develop new and innovative antiviral drugs and vaccines. MICR 337 is the only 300-level course in a New Zealand university that is fully dedicated to in-depth learning about viruses and their interactions with their host. From this paper, you will acquire the knowledge essential for a career in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of viral diseases.
| Paper title | Virology |
|---|---|
| Paper code | MICR337 |
| Subject | Microbiology |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 2 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,141.35 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- GENE 221 or MICR 221 or MICR 223
- Schedule C
- Science
- Eligibility
Appropriate for BSc or BBiomedSc students studying Microbiology, Health Sciences and Public Health.
- Contact
- More information link
View more information on the Department of Microbiology & Immunology's website
- Teaching staff
Convenor: Professor Vernon Ward
Other Lecturers: Professor Miguel Quiñones-Mateu
Dr Mihnea Bostina
Dr Matloob Husain
Dr Jen Robson- Paper Structure
Paper Structure:
- Lectures - provide an integrated molecular understanding of virus-host interactions
- Self-directed learning - enables students to research and present a contemporary virology topic
- Laboratory classes - enable students to purify, characterise the growth and identify a virus
Assessment:
- Group Presentations (5%) and essay (10%) - presentation in last/first weeks of July/August and essay due date on the Friday before mid-semester break
- Two assignments based on laboratory experiments (20%) - due dates in first and second week of October
- Final examination (65%) - as per the University calendar
- Teaching Arrangements
Students may leave the lab for other commitments such as lectures and are able to plan their laboratory experiments to fit in with those commitments.
- Textbooks
- Principles of Virology, Flint et al (3rd, and 4th edition) - optional.
- Introduction to Modern Virology, Dimmock et al (6th and 7th edition) - optional.
- Web-based resources.
- Course outline
Contact the course convenor for a course outline.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Communication, Critical thinking, Research, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this paper will have:
- In-depth understanding of virus infection and viral manipulation of host
- Hands-on technical experience of virological research techniques
- Ready to apply the knowledge in the workplace
