The Microbiology Module enables a diverse array of research including the examination of the origins of human pathogens and their progression from the soil to human diseases as well as microbial molecular ecology, biodiversity, and global biogeography. The laboratories provide unprecedented facilities to not only culture and preserve newly discovered species of soil, airborne, as well as insect-borne fungi, but also to assess the impact of altered ecosystem health on natural vegetation and crop productivity. This research will be critical to a better understanding of the future of agriculture, forestry, and plant biodiversity across the globe.
A unique feature of the Microbiology module is the presence a specialized tissue culture facility that contains approximately 48 temperature-controlled incubators that allow the determination of minimum, optimum, and maximum growth temperatures of microorganisms. In the context of global warming, this is essential to a good understanding of the temperature relations of large numbers of isolates, how they are distributed geographically, and how they change over time. The Microbiology module also includes a large central laboratory, a cryogenic laboratory, a cell transfer room as well as a media preparation room. A separately contained laboratory for mould research minimizes potential contamination of other microorganisms with fungal spores.
An area within the Biotron Tower will be federally certified at Containment Level 3 (CL3) for work on airborne biohazardous plant and animal pathogens. This zone will feature approximately 70 m 2 of CL3 lab space in 2 separately air-locked labs, along with a pass-through autoclave, gowning area, and access to a large, walk-in growth chamber.
