Examines the physiology and genetics of bacteria, Archaea and viruses. Particular emphasis will be on metabolism, regulation of gene expression and protein function, mechanisms of interactions with and manipulation of the environment, and evolution in response to environmental pressures. Prereqs., MCDB 2150, 3135 and 3145 or instructor consent. Recommended prereq. or coreq., CHEM 4611. Same as MCDB 5310.