Undergraduate Study
The department participates in the interdepartmental undergraduate Microbiology major. See /collegeofagricultureandlifesciences/microbiology/ for more information.
Graduate Study
The department offers studies for the degrees master of science and doctor of philosophy with a major in plant pathology, and minor work for students majoring in other departments or programs. A master of science nonthesis option is available. The department also participates in the interdepartmental majors in microbiology; toxicology; genetics; plant biology; molecular, cellular, and developmental biology; ecology and evolutionary biology; and sustainable agriculture.
Students entering graduate programs in the department need a sound background in the physical, biological, and mathematical sciences as well as adequate preparation in English.
Graduates have a broad understanding of the biology and management of plant pathogenic microorganisms and the interactions of pathogens with their host plants. They understand the relationship between plant pathology and allied disciplines and are able to communicate effectively with scientific colleagues and the general public in both formal and informal settings. Graduates are able to address complex plant disease problems facing agricultural and bioscience professionals, taking into account the related ethical, social, legal, and environmental issues. They are skilled in research procedures, communicating research results, and writing concise and persuasive grant proposals.
Microbiology Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: High school biology or equivalent
Introduction to the importance of viruses, bacteria, fungi, archaea and parasites both to humans and to the biosphere. Topics include past and present microbial impact on humans and society, ecology and diversity of microbes, biotechnology and microbial impact on the biosphere.
(1-0) Cr. 1. F.
An introduction to curriculum and research opportunities in microbiology at Iowa State. Topics include: easing the transition to life as a university student, development of specific goals, strengthening interpersonal communication, professional portfolio creation and resume building.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
(2-0) Cr. 2. F.S.
Prereq: One semester of college-level biology
Selected topics in microbiology with emphasis on the relationship of microorganisms to human and animal health, agricultural technology, and the environment. With written petition to the chair of the supervisory committee, students who obtain a grade of B or better may substitute 201 for MICRO 302 in advanced courses.
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.SS.
Prereq: BIOL 211, credit or enrollment in BIOL 212; 1 semester of chemistry
Basic cell biology, physiology, metabolism, genetics and ecology of microorganisms, with an emphasis on prokaryotes and viruses, as well as the roles of microorganisms in the environment, disease, agriculture, and industry.
(0-3) Cr. 1. F.S.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in MICRO 302
Basic microbiology laboratory techniques for majors in microbiology, biological sciences and related fields.
Credit for either Micro 201L or 302L, but not both, may be applied toward graduation.
(0-3) Cr. 1. F.
Prereq: MICRO 201 or MICRO 302; MICRO 201L or MICRO 302L; credit or enrollment in MICRO 310
Microbiological tools and techniques to isolate, identify, and characterize medically significant microorganisms in relation to human diseases. Emphasis on the virulence factors of pathogenic organisms as compared to the normal flora.
(4-0) Cr. 4. S.
Prereq: MICRO 302, BIOL 313, credit or enrollment in CHEM 332
A systems perspective of bacterial growth, survival, and cellular differentiation by integrating physiological and genetic principles. Emphasis is on prokaryotes although unicellular eukaryotes are also discussed. Topics include the structure, function, and assembly of cell components, molecular and genomic techniques, bioenergetics and metabolism, regulation of gene expression, genetic adaptation, stress tolerance, biofilms, and cell-cell interactions and communications.
(Cross-listed with BIOL, V PTH). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: BIOL 212
Biology and host-parasite relationships of major groups of animal parasites, and techniques of diagnosing and studying parasites.
(Cross-listed with ENT). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: 3 credits in biological sciences
Identification, biology, and significance of insects and arthropods that affect the health of humans and animals, particularly those that are vectors of disease.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with ENT). (0-3) Cr. 1. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in ENT 374
Laboratory and field techniques for studying medical or public health entomology, including: collection, identification and maintenance of medically significant arthropods and experimental design and execution related to the biology of arthropods or arthropod-pathogen interactions.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 502). (Cross-listed with GEN). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: MICRO 302, BIOL 313
The fundamental concepts of bacterial and bacteriophage genetics including mutagenesis, mechanisms of vertical and horizontal genetic information transfer and gene regulation are covered, along with genetic and genomic-based approaches to study these and other cellular processes of microorganisms. Review and discussion of research literature to examine experimental design, methodology, and interpretation of both historical and contemporary relevance to microbial genetics and genomics.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 507). (Cross-listed with FS HN). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: MICRO 420
Examination of the various factors in the production of foods, from production through processing, distribution and final consumption which contribute to the overall microbiological safety of the food. Upon successful completion of this class, the student will receive both the Preventive Controls for Human Foods certificate (FDA program) and the International HACCP Alliance certificate (USDA-FSIS program).
(Cross-listed with FS HN, TOX). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: MICRO 201 or MICRO 302, a course in biochemistry
Pathogenesis of human microbiological foodborne infections and intoxications, principles of toxicology, major classes of toxicants in the food supply, governmental regulation of foodborne hazards. Assessed service learning component.
Only one of FS HN 419 and FS HN 519 may count toward graduation.
(Cross-listed with FS HN). (0-6) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: MICRO 201 or MICRO 302; MICRO 201L or MICRO 302L. Credit or enrollment in FS HN/MICRO 420
Standard techniques used for the microbiological examination of foods. Independent and group projects on student-generated questions in food microbiology. Emphasis on oral and written communication and group interaction.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 530). (Cross-listed with BBMB). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: MICRO 302, MICRO 302L
Survey of the diverse groups of procaryotes emphasizing important and distinguishing metabolic, phylogenetic, morphological, and ecological features of members of those groups.
(Cross-listed with BBMB). (2-6) Cr. 4. F.S.
Prereq: MICRO 302, MICRO 302L, CHEM 332, BIOL 313L
Fundamental techniques and theory for studying the cellular mechanisms, genetic processes and diversity of microbial life. Experimental techniques will include isolation and physiological characterization of bacteria that inhabit different environments as well as an emphasis on genetic and molecular techniques to understand antibiotic resistance processes and mechanisms. Also included are techniques for phylogenetic characterization, measuring gene expression, and genetic manipulation of bacteria. Essential components for the effective communication of scientific results are also emphasized.
(2-0) Cr. 2. S.
Prereq: SP CM 212 and senior standing in Microbiology
Required of all undergraduate majors in microbiology. Students demonstrate mastery of core courses in microbiology through discussion of current literature in microbiology and immunology, issues in scientific conduct, and bioethics in microbiology. Students present current papers in a journal club format and gain experience in writing and reviewing grant proposals.
Cr. R. F.
Prereq: Junior or Senior standing in Microbiology
Preparations for graduation. Topics include job search strategies, career information, mock interviews, graduate and professional school application processes and guidelines as well as outcomes assessment activities.
(Cross-listed with BIOL). (2-3) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: 10 credits in biological sciences
Morphology, diversity, and ecology of fungi; their relation to agriculture, industry, and human health.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 575). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: MICRO 310
An examination of humoral and cellular immune function as well as the interaction of the cells and factors of the immune system that result in health and disease. MICRO 475L optional.
Credit for either Micro 475 or V MPM 520, but not both, may be applied to graduation.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 577). (Cross-listed with PL P). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: 3 credits in microbiology or plant pathology
Overview of plant-associated bacteria including their ecology, diversity, and the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved with their interactions with plants. The course covers bacterial plant pathogens and pathogenesis, nitrogen fixation and plant symbioses, biological control and plant growth promotion, bacterial disease diagnosis and management, and approaches to the study of microbial communities in the rhizosphere and on leaves.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 585). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: AGRON 182 or equivalent; MICRO 201 and MICRO 201L recommended
The living organisms in the soil and what they do. Emphasis on soil biota composition, the carbon cycle and bioremediation, soil-plant-microbial relationships, and environmental issues.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 587). (Cross-listed with BIOL, ENSCI, GEOL). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: Six credits in biology and 6 credits in chemistry
Introduction to major functional groups of autotrophic and heterotrophic microorganisms and their roles in natural and environmental systems. Consequences of microbial activity on water chemistry, weathering, and precipitation/dissolution reactions will be emphasized.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: A minimum of 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Micro 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. arr. Repeatable. F.SS.
Prereq: A minimum of 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Micro 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. arr. Repeatable. F.SS.
Prereq: A minimum of 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Micro 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. arr. Repeatable. F.SS.
Prereq: A minimum of 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Micro 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. arr. Repeatable. F.SS.
Prereq: A minimum of 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Micro 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: A minimum of 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Micro 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. 1-2. F.S.
Prereq: At least 6 credits of 300-level or above coursework in microbiology, approval of academic adviser
Participation in the Cooperative Extension Intern Program or an equivalent work experience. Written report of activities required.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
(Dual-listed with MICRO 402). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: MICRO 302, BIOL 313
The fundamental concepts of bacterial and bacteriophage genetics including mutagenesis, mechanisms of vertical and horizontal genetic information transfer and gene regulation are covered, along with genetic and genomic-based approaches to study these and other cellular processes of microorganisms. Review and discussion of research literature to examine experimental design, methodology, and interpretation of both historical and contemporary relevance to microbial genetics and genomics.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 407). (Cross-listed with FS HN). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: MICRO 420
Examination of the various factors in the production of foods, from production through processing, distribution and final consumption which contribute to the overall microbiological safety of the food. Upon successful completion of this class, the student will receive both the Preventive Controls for Human Foods certificate (FDA program) and the International HACCP Alliance certificate (USDA-FSIS program).
(Dual-listed with MICRO 509). (Cross-listed with PL P). (2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: BIOL 313 or BBMB 301. BIOL 314 recommended.
Taxonomy, molecular mechanisms, host-interactions, vector transmission, epidemiology, detection, control and exploitation of plant viruses. Course will consist of a mixture of lectures, and student-led presentations using primary literature.
(Cross-listed with AN S, FS HN, V MPM). Cr. 3.
Prereq: Basic Knowledge in microbiology
Explore current research on gut microbiome including modern tools used to study the gut microbiome. Examine the linkages between gut microbiome and health status, diseases, and manipulation of gut microbiome to improve health.
(Cross-listed with V MPM). Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: MICRO 302, BIOL 313
Overview of commensal microbiota in the health and well-being of vertebrates. Topics include diversity of intestinal structure, microbial diversity/function, innate immune development, community interactions and metabolic diseases associated with alterations of the intestinal microbiome.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 430). (Cross-listed with BBMB). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: MICRO 302, MICRO 302L
Survey of the diverse groups of procaryotes emphasizing important and distinguishing metabolic, phylogenetic, morphological, and ecological features of members of those groups.
(1-0) Cr. 1. F.
Prereq: MICRO 302, BIOL 313
Review and contrast/comparison of common bacterial pathogens of plants and animals and their mechanisms of virulence, including toxins, protein secretion, host invasion and iron acquisition strategies. An overview of eukaryotic cell biology that is relevant to pathogenesis will also be included.
(1-0) Cr. 1. S.
Prereq: MICRO 302, BIOL 313
The study of microorganisms in their natural environments, with a focus on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, including eukaryotic hosts; interactions within biofilms and communities, including intercellular communication and symbioses; microbial adaptations to extreme environments; and metagemomic, genomic, molecular and microscopy techniques for the study of microbes in natural systems.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 475). (Cross-listed with V MPM). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: MICRO 310
An examination of humoral and cellular immune function as well as the interaction of the cells and factors of the immune system that result in health and disease. MICRO 475L optional.
Credit for either Micro 575 or V MPM 520, but not both, may be applied toward graduation.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 477). (Cross-listed with PL P). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: 3 credits in microbiology or plant pathology
Overview of plant-associated bacteria including their ecology, diversity, and the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved with their interactions with plants. The course covers bacterial plant pathogens and pathogenesis, nitrogen fixation and plant symbioses, biological control and plant growth promotion, bacterial disease diagnosis and management, and approaches to the study of microbial communities in the rhizosphere and on leaves.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 485). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: AGRON 182 or equivalent; MICRO 201 and MICRO 201L recommended
The living organisms in the soil and what they do. Emphasis on soil biota composition, the carbon cycle and bioremediation, soil-plant-microbial relationships, and environmental issues.
(Cross-listed with V MPM). (4-0) Cr. 4. F.
Prereq: 310
Bacteria associated with diseases of vertebrates, including virulence factors and interaction of host responses.
(Dual-listed with MICRO 487). (Cross-listed with EEOB, ENSCI, GEOL). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: Six credits in biology and 6 credits in chemistry
Introduction to major functional groups of autotrophic and heterotrophic microorganisms and their roles in natural and environmental systems. Consequences of microbial activity on water chemistry, weathering, and precipitation/dissolution reactions will be emphasized.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Courses for graduate students:
(1-0) Cr. 1. Repeatable. F.S.
Course will expose students to the breadth of subdisciplines within microbiology, offer opportunities for direct interaction between the students and the faculty members within the Interdepartmental Microbiology Graduate Program, and promote interactions among the students within the program.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
(Cross-listed with BBMB, V MPM). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: BBMB 405 or BBMB 506 and BBMB 507
Current topics in molecular aspects of immunology: T and B cell receptors; major histocompatibility complex; antibody structure; immunosuppressive drugs and viruses; and intracellular signaling pathways leading to expression of genes that control and activate immune function.
(Cross-listed with V MPM). (4-0) Cr. 4. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: Credit in Biochemistry and Microbiology
Review of current concepts in specific areas of microbial pathogenesis including the genetic basis for bacterial disease, genetic regulation and control of virulence factors and their mechanisms of action, and host-pathogen interactions at the cellular and molecular levels. The application of microbial genetics to understanding pathogenesis will be included.
(Cross-listed with FS HN, TOX). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: FS HN 420 or FS HN 421 or FS HN 504
Topics of current interest in food microbiology, including new foodborne pathogens, rapid identification methods, effect of food properties and new preservation techniques on microbial growth, and mode of action of antimicrobials.
(Cross-listed with FS HN, TOX). (2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: FS HN 420 or FS HN 421 or FS HN 504
Provides an overview of rapid microbial detection methods for use in foods. Topics include historical aspects of rapid microbial detection, basic categories of rapid tests (phenotypic, genotypic, whole cell, etc.), existing commercial test formats and kits, automation in testing, sample preparation and "next generation" testing formats now in development.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: AGRON 585
Chemistry of soil organic matter and biochemical transformations brought about by microorganisms and enzymes in soils.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Colloquia or advanced study of specific topics in a specialized field.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Colloquia or advanced study of specific topics in a specialized field.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Colloquia or advanced study of specific topics in a specialized field.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Colloquia or advanced study of specific topics in a specialized field.
(Cross-listed with PL P). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 506 or BBMB 405 or GEN 411 or MICRO 402 or strong background in molecular biology
Seminal and current research in molecular and physiological aspects of plant interactions with pathogens, including mechanisms of pathogenesis, host-pathogen recognition and host defense, with an emphasis on critical evaluation of primary literature. Students also complete a research proposal writing and peer review exercise.
Cr. arr. Repeatable. F.S.
Graduate research projects performed under the supervision of selected faculty members in the Interdepartmental Microbiology major.
(Cross-listed with BBMB, GDCB, MCDB, V MPM). (2-0) Cr. 1-2. Repeatable. F.S.
Student and faculty presentations.
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Plant Pathology Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
(Dual-listed with PL P 508). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: 8 credits in life sciences, including BIOL 211 or 212.
Braun. Principles underlying the nature, diagnosis, and management of plant diseases. Laboratory complements lecture topics and provides experience in plant disease diagnosis.
(Cross-listed with FOR). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: 8 credits in biological sciences, including BIOL 211 or equivalent.
Nature of insects and pathogens of forest and shade trees; their role in the dynamics of natural and managed forest ecosystems; and the management of indigenous and exotic pests.
(Dual-listed with PL P 552). (Cross-listed with ENT, HORT). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: HORT 351
Identification and biology of important diseases and insect pests of turfgrasses. Development of integrated pest management programs in various turfgrass environments.
(Dual-listed with PL P 577). (Cross-listed with MICRO). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: 3 credits in microbiology or plant pathology
Overview of plant-associated bacteria including their ecology, diversity, and the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved with their interactions with plants. The course covers bacterial plant pathogens and pathogenesis, nitrogen fixation and plant symbioses, biological control and plant growth promotion, bacterial disease diagnosis and management, and approaches to the study of microbial communities in the rhizosphere and on leaves.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior classification, 7 credits in biological sciences, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Pl P 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior classification, 7 credits in biological sciences, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Pl P 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior classification, 7 credits in biological sciences, permission of instructor
A maximum of 6 credits of Pl P 490 may be used toward the total of 128 credits required for graduation.
(Dual-listed with PL P 594). (2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408
Significance of biotic and abiotic diseases that affect the production and utilization of seeds, during each phase of the seed life cycle: growing, harvesting, conditioning, storing, and planting seed. Mechanisms of seed infection and seed-to-seedling transmission are considered for fungi, bacteria, viruses/viroids, and nematodes. Aspects of epidemiology, management, and host-pathogen relationships are discussed. Emphases include the role of seed health testing in the global seed industry for quality control and phytosanitary certification, as well as the use of seed treatments to manage seedborne and soilborne pathogens and pests. Concurrent enrollment in PL P 494L/594L (Seed Pathology Laboratory) is strongly encouraged (on-campus students only).
Credit may not be obtained for both Pl P 494/594 and STB/Pl P 592.
(Dual-listed with PL P 594L). (0-3) Cr. 1. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408
Laboratory in seed pathology. Seed health testing methods; effects of seed treatments and seed conditioning on seedborne pathogens.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
(Dual-listed with PL P 408). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: 8 credits in life sciences, including BIOL 211 or 212.
Braun. Principles underlying the nature, diagnosis, and management of plant diseases. Laboratory complements lecture topics and provides experience in plant disease diagnosis.
(2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: BIOL 313 or BBMB 301. BIOL 314 recommended.
Taxonomy, molecular mechanisms, host-interactions, vector transmission, epidemiology, detection, control and exploitation of plant viruses. Course will consist of a mixture of lectures, and student-led presentations using primary literature.
(Cross-listed with ENT, HORT). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408 or PL P 416 or ENT 370 or ENT 376 or HORT 221
Applications of Integrated Crop Management principles (including plant pathology, entomology, and horticulture) to tropical cropping systems. Familiarization with a variety of tropical agroecosystems and Costa Rican culture is followed by 10-day tour of Costa Rican agriculture during spring break, then writeup of individual projects.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, ENT, SUSAG). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Durable, least-toxic strategies for managing weeds, pathogens, and insect pests, with emphasis on underlying ecological processes.
(2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408 or PL P 416
Nutter. Theory and practice related to the ecology and epidemiology of plant disease epidemics. Interactions among host and pathogen populations as affected by the environment are quantified with respect to time and space. Analysis of ecological and host and pathogen genetic factors that alter the course of plant disease epidemics. Risk assessment theory, disease forecasting, and modeling the impact of biotic plant stresses on yield and quality are also emphasized.
(Dual-listed with PL P 452). (Cross-listed with ENT, HORT). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: HORT 351
Identification and biology of important diseases and insect pests of turfgrasses. Development of integrated pest management programs in various turfgrass environments.
(2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. SS., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: 8 credits in biological sciences, including BIOL 211 or equivalent
Morphology, anatomy, identification, management, and life cycles of common plant-parasitic nematodes; host parasite interactions; recent advances in plant nematology.
(0-3) Cr. 1. Alt. SS., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: 8 credits in biological sciences, including BIOL 211 or equivalent. Must also be registered for PL P 574.
Practical skills of sample collection, processing, extraction, and identification of plant-parasitic nematodes from soil and roots; other techniques will be discussed.
(Dual-listed with PL P 477). (Cross-listed with MICRO). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: 3 credits in microbiology or plant pathology
Overview of plant-associated bacteria including their ecology, diversity, and the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved with their interactions with plants. The course covers bacterial plant pathogens and pathogenesis, nitrogen fixation and plant symbioses, biological control and plant growth promotion, bacterial disease diagnosis and management, and approaches to the study of microbial communities in the rhizosphere and on leaves.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 10 credits in biological sciences, permission of instructor
(Cross-listed with STB). (2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. S., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: Admission to the Graduate Program in Seed Technology and Business or approval of instructor must be obtained.
Occurrence and management of diseases during seed production, harvest, conditioning, storage, and planting. Emphasis on epidemiology, disease management in the field, seed treatment, effects of conditioning on seed health, and seed health testing.
Credit may not be obtained for both Pl P/STB 592 and Pl P 594.
(Dual-listed with PL P 494). (2-0) Cr. 2. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408
Significance of biotic and abiotic diseases that affect the production and utilization of seeds, during each phase of the seed life cycle: growing, harvesting, conditioning, storing, and planting seed. Mechanisms of seed infection and seed-to-seedling transmission are considered for fungi, bacteria, viruses/viroids, and nematodes. Aspects of epidemiology, management, and host-pathogen relationships are discussed. Emphases include the role of seed health testing in the global seed industry for quality control and phytosanitary certification, as well as the use of seed treatments to manage seedborne and soilborne pathogens and pests. Concurrent enrollment in PL P 494L/594L (Seed Pathology Laboratory) is strongly encouraged (on-campus students only).
Credit may not be obtained for both Pl P 494/594 and STB/Pl P 592.
(Dual-listed with PL P 494L). (0-3) Cr. 1. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408
Laboratory in seed pathology. Seed health testing methods; effects of seed treatments and seed conditioning on seedborne pathogens.
Cr. arr. Repeatable. F.S.SS.
Prereq: For non-thesis Master of Science students.
Independent study related to the student's area of specialization and approved by the student's major professor.
Courses for graduate students:
(2-0) Cr. 2. F.
Prereq: Graduate student status.
Skill building to improve oral presentation fundamentals for graduate students in biological sciences. Principles and guidance in both personal speaking style and maximizing impact of presentation software. In-depth lectures and class discussions on all aspects of presentation skills. Video and anonymous peer review of individual speeches.
(0-6) Cr. 2. Repeatable. Alt. SS., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 408 or PL P 416
Diagnosis of plant diseases, plant disease assessment methods, and the integration of disease management into commercial crop production practices. Objectives are to familiarize students with common diseases of Midwest crops and landscape plants, and to provide experience in disease diagnosis. Field trips include commercial operations, agricultural research facilities, and ornamental plantings.
(Cross-listed with MICRO). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered even-numbered years.
Prereq: PL P 506 or BBMB 405 or GEN 411 or MICRO 402 or strong background in molecular biology
Seminal and current research in molecular and physiological aspects of plant interactions with pathogens, including mechanisms of pathogenesis, host-pathogen recognition and host defense, with an emphasis on critical evaluation of primary literature. Students also complete a research proposal writing and peer review exercise.
(2-0) Cr. 2. Repeatable. S.
Prereq: PL P 408 or PL P 416, permission of instructor
Advanced topics in plant pathology, including biological control, cultural control, resistance gene deployment, genetic engineering for disease resistance, chemical control, integrated pest management, emerging diseases, fungal genetics, insect vector biology, professional communications, etc.
Cr. 1. Repeatable. F.S.
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
F.S.SS.