Why can one microbe be beneficial to make bead, cheese, or wine, while another will kill it's host? Have you wondered how scientists identify microorganisms that you cannot see? Are you familiar with different techniques used to control microbial growth? During this one-week intensive module, students will be introduced to scientific concepts in microbiology and virology. In the laboratory, students will learn fundamental concepts of microbiology by doing experiments such as measuring sensitivity of bacteria to different antibiotics and common disinfectants, monitoring the effect of viruses on their host cells, isolating and identifying bacteria from environmental surfaces and analysing bacteria in water from different sources. Plus why is Gram Staining the go-to technique in identifying mcirobes. Students will attend talks from researchers/clinicians who are leaders in their field, covering topics such as vaccines, antibiotic resistance, public health microbiology and how microbes cause disease. It is intended that through engaging speakers and hands-on experiments in the laboratory, students will develop a better appreciation of microbes and their importance.