Microbes and Social (In)equity

Microbes shape our ecosystems and society in unseen but profound ways. This course explores and examines microbial communities in our bodies, environments, and built spaces —and how we, in turn, shape them. Through analysis of scientific literature and other readings, we will interrogate the roles of race and racism, gender, socioeconomic status, and other factors that influence human and environmental microbe interactions. Topics such as pregnancy and birth mode, gut health, food access, and green spaces reveal the surprising ways microbes influence our health and environment. Through discussions, presentations, and creative activities, students will build science communication and critical reasoning skills. The course culminates in a final project based on a student-designed research question. 3 hr. lecture