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752-5102-00L 4 Credits MSC D-HEST , D-BIOL

The Human Microbiome

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Nicholas Bokulich, Dr. Anton Lavrinienko, Dr. Jorge Arturo Peña Díaz
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:06

Abstract

The human gastrointestinal tract is colonised by complex microbial communities, which are of profound importance to host biology and health. In this course, we will examine and critically evaluate selected topics related to the human microbiome, including its diversity and composition, its roles in health and disease, and the impact of diet and functional microbiome supplements on human health.

Objective

In this course, you will examine and critically evaluate the roles of the human microbiome in health and disease. You will explore recent research findings and innovative experimental approaches, and become familiar with key models and technologies used to study the human microbiome. In parallel, you will learn the key principles of successful research grant writing through a combination of theoretical guidance, practical examples, and active learning sessions. You will then use this domain knowledge and acquired grant writing skills as a foundation for developing innovative research project ideas. By the end of the course, you will be able to independently assess the functions and potential applications of the microbiome in promoting human health. Through the development of critical thinking, integration of gained domain knowledge, and practical training in proposal writing, you will design a novel research proposal related to the human microbiome and present your idea to an audience.

Content

This course explores the diverse applications of the human microbiome. The main topics covered include: (1) The gut microbiome succession throughout life (2) Host-microbe interactions in health and disease (3) Key theories and concepts in human microbiome research (4) The impact of diet on the gut microbiome (5) Modulation of the gut microbiome through functional microbiome supplements (e.g., probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics) (6) Models used to study the human microbiome (7) Ethics in human and animal microbiome research (8) Recent research findings and innovative experimental designs presented through case studies Through a series of interactive workshops on the key principles of successful research grant writing, students will learn how to develop a novel and innovative research project proposal: from formulating the initial idea to defining research questions, objectives, and testable hypotheses. Working in groups, students will draft and refine their proposals throughout the semester. By the end of the course, students will apply gained domain knowledge and theoretical understanding to complete a group project focused on a selected topic related to the human microbiome. The semester project work will include in-depth research and analysis, a peer-evaluation workshop / reflective activities, and an oral presentation of the final proposal.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Primary mode of examination: written project.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture The Human Microbiome
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (LFV E 41)
2 h weekly

Offered In