Molecular and biochemical mechanisms used by soil bacteria; bacterial genes involved in plant growth promotion; biocontrol of pathogens; communication between bacteria in the soil; environmental cleanup facilitated by plants and bacteria; regulatory and social issues regarding the deliberate release of bacteria to the environment. [Note: BIOL 120 recommended. Offered: W] Prereq: BIOL 241 and one of BIOL 208/309, 308, 342
