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Academic Program

„Scientific challenges in the global village"

Today’s world is characterized by major challenges to humans and our natural world, from climate change to the development of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. While these problems are visible on the global level, it is at the microscopic level that we need to understand them. Participants will receive an introduction to the fields of biology and molecular biology with lectures and hands-on laboratory experience. The biology courses are developed to adapt to the student’s level of experience, including those not necessarily pursuing a degree in the life sciences but with a strong curiosity for interdisciplinary connections.

Modules 2025

Students will take two modules during the second program week. 

Please note, that the module description is subject to change. The final description will be available by August 31st. 

Module: "Multi-drug resistent bacteria - an emerging global problem"

Instructors: Dr. Jan Pane-Farre et al.

  • Seminar Description

    Today’s world is characterized by major challenges to humans and our natural world, from climate change to the development of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. While these problems are visible on the global level, it is at the microscopic level that we need to understand them. Participants will receive an introduction to the fields of biology and molecular biology with lectures and hands-on laboratory experience. The biology courses are developed to adapt to the student’s level of experience, including those not necessarily pursuing a degree in the life sciences but with a strong curiosity for interdisciplinary connections.

  • Learning Objectives

    By the end of the course, you'll become familiar with different types of antibiotics, where they come from, and how they work. You'll also understand what antibiotic resistance is from different viewpoints like how it affects people's health and how resistance develops. Lastly, you'll get a glimpse on how powerful structural biology is to describe mechanistic principles of cells at the molecular level and to help develop new strategies in antimicrobial therapy.

  • Prerequisites/Module requirements:

    No pre-requisites required. Just bring a lot of curiosity to explore a subject that may be completely new to you.

    Max. number of participants: max. 30

Module: "How microorganisms shape climate – small scales with big impact"

Instructors: Dr. Judith Klatt et al.

  • Seminar Description

    Join us for a two-day introductory course exploring the vital role bacteria play in shaping our global carbon cycle, with a special focus on marine environments. Additionally, you will gain insights into other key microorganisms, such as fungi and bacteriophages, and their ecological importance. The seminar features lectures on cutting-edge methods in environmental microbiology and biogeochemistry. You will also participate in hands-on sessions to measure photosynthesis in algal cultures and environmental samples, and study the impact of bacteriophages.

  • Learning Objectives

    By the end of the course, you will:

    ·         Better understand how climate is influenced by microorganisms

    ·         Learn about the potential role of these tiny organisms in mitigating climate change.

    ·         Appreciate the complexity of microbial interactions in the environment.

    ·         Acquire skills to analyze the roles of microorganisms in both natural settings and laboratory experiments, providing insights into current environmental changes.

  • Prerequisites/Module requierments

    No pre-requisites required. Just bring a lot of curiosity to explore a subject that may be completely new to you.

    Max. number of participants: max. 30

Field Trip

The field trip is an important and exciting part of the program. It count towards your total ECTS credits (see above) while it is  also a great chance to get to know more about Germany. The trip takes place on the weekend of January 18th - 19th. All costs for the trip (travel, accommodation and program) are included in the program fee (except personal expenses).

Further info on the field trip will be announced soon. 

See further information in the FAQs.