This course will cover the fundamental principles governing life and the living world. Topics will include the diversity of living organisms, cellular biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. This course provides a foundation in biology, fostering critical thinking & analytical skills.

Course topics include diversity of living organisms (eukaryotes and prokaryotes, viruses), cellular biology, different metabolisms (respiration, fermentation, photosynthesis), genetics, evolution, and ecology. A large part of the course will focuss on these fundamental topics.

However, we will also explore the relationship between living organisms and the environment, emphasising how biological processes impact ecosystems and the natural world. Additionally, the course will focus on biodiversity and conservation, allowing future environmental engineers to balance the impact of human activities with ecosystem health and understand implications of biodiversity loss and climate change on ecosystems.

Students will also have an introduction to the role of microorganisms in environmental processes, such as bioremediation and nutrient cycling. Moreover, we will build a foundational basis in genetics and molecular biology related to environmental engineering, including genetic engineering and biotechnology applications in environmental remediation.

The course aims to provide a solid foundation in biological concepts, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills for further studies in environmental sciences.