The main objective is to introduce important topics in microbiology to graduate students. These topics include quorum sensing, horizontal gene transfer, antibiotic resistance, and protein secretion systems. These topics are modular and are not interdependent. These modules could also be flexibly rotated in different terms to customize toward the student’s needs and interests. In addition, students will also be trained in writing and presentation kills in the context of microbiology common practice by presenting and critically evaluating research advances from the research literature and through written assignments. The course will be structured in a hybrid format with 1/2 in-class lectures, 1/4 student presentations, and 1/4 group discussions. Al required lecture materials and assignments will be available to students. Communication with the students will be primarily in person in class and via email after class.