Microbiology

Microbiology is the scientific study of microorganisms, those being of unicellular, multicellular, or acellular. Microbiology encompasses numerous sub-disciplines including virology, bacteriology, protistology, mycology, immunology, and parasitology.

Dr. Idongesit S. Ambrose, Head of Department, Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi with research interests in Atmospheric Microbiology (Microbial loads in air or bio-aerosols); Gaseous pollutants, hydrocarbon  and heavy metal contents in air. I have been involved in so many environmental impact assessment (EIA) projects across the country as Air Quality consultant. I hold Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Environmental Microbiology, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria (2021); Master of Science (MSc) degree in Environmental Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria (2016); and Bachelor of Science (BSc. Hons) degree in Microbiology, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria (1998). I have the following awards and honors: Federal Government Scholarship (2000); EIA Study for 5G Technology Deployment in Nigeria (2021); Certificate of Commendation by National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Kogi State of Nigeria (1999), et cetera.

Recent Publications:

Akankali, J. A., Chukwuma, B., Ambrose, I. S. and Unyime, U. S. (2023). Assessment of Air

Quality Parameters in Selected Road Intersections in Port Harcourt, Nigeria: A Case Study of their Potential Impacts on Terrestrial and Aquatic Environment. International Journal of Environment and Pollution Research, 11: (1), 24-42.

Idongesit Sunday Ambrose, Dora Udoh, Nsikak Abraham, Ubong Ekong, Uzochukwu K.

Chukwu, Stephen E. Ukpong (2023). Bio-Aerosols and Their Virulence Factors in Edonwhii Beach Atmosphere, Eastern Obolo LGA, Nigeria. Environmental Contaminants Reviews, 6(2): 50-55.

Godwin Asukwo EBONG, Idongesit Bassey ANWETING, Helen Solomon ETUK, Idongesit

Sunday AMBROSE and Aniefiokmkpong Okokon OKON (2023). Impacts of varied industrial activities within southern Nigeria on air environment and human health. GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2023, 17(03), 134–144.

Welcome to the Department of Microbiology!

We are so glad you have chosen to visit our portal. Whether you are a prospective student, a current student, a school (faculty) member, or just curious about our department, we hope you find the information you need. If you have any question(s), please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!

The Department of Microbiology, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, is a leading center for research and education in microbiology and is one of the pioneer departments of the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Nigeria, established in 2021 to award the degree of Bachelor of Science (B.Sc); and in due course, Postgraduate Diploma (PGD); Master of Science (MSc.) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Microbiology. We offer a variety of undergraduate program in microbiology, and our students have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects. The Department serves students from many other departments. Microbiology programme is designed to provide students and staff members with hand-on training in techniques used in basic microbiology and biotechnology. This is applicable to assess microbiological quality of air, soil and water as well as the effect on human. Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, which are tiny organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Microorganisms include bacteria, archaea, fungi, protists, and viruses. They are found everywhere on Earth, from the deepest oceans to the highest mountains.

Microorganisms play a vital role in our world. They are essential for many important processes, such as food production, nutrient cycling, and waste decomposition. Microorganisms are also used in a wide range of industrial applications, such as the production of antibiotics, vaccines, and biofuels.

VISION STATEMENT OF DEPARTMENT OF MICROBIOLOGY

To be a world-known centre for microbiology research and education driving scientific discovery to address global challenges and improve human health.

MISSION

To project the field of microbiology through education, research and service. We aim to train future microbiologists, generate new knowledge through innovative research, and serve our community by applying our expertise to solve real-world problems.

PHILOSOPHY

We believe that a deep understanding of the microbial world is essential for addressing some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. Through a combination of reductionist and holistic approaches, we strive to unravel the intricate relationships between microbes and their environments. By acknowledging the evolutionary forces that have shaped microbial life, we aim at unlocking new knowledge that can improve human health, protect the planet and advance scientific discovery.

CORE VALUES

The Department of Microbiology is committed to the following core values:

Inquiry and Discovery: A commitment to curiosity, exploration and the pursuit of new knowledge in Microbiology.

Scientific Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of research ethics, honesty and transparency.

Collaboration: Working effectively as a team and fostering interdisciplinary connections to achieve research goals.

Social Responsibility: Applying microbiological knowledge for the greater good, such as improving human health or protecting the environment.

Lifelong Learning: Recognizing the ever-evolving nature of microbiology and the importance of continuous learning and professional development.

Safety: Maintaining a safe and responsible environment for research and teaching.

Diversity and Inclusion: Valuing a variety of perspectives and fostering an inclusive environment for all students and researchers.

STRATEGIC GOALS

The strategic goals of the Department of Microbiology will typically focus on achieving their mission and vision within a specific timeframe. These goals will be ambitious yet achievable, and they should address the following aims:

Education: Develop and implement innovative teaching method(s) to ensure students are well-prepared for careers in microbiology. Increase student enrollment in microbiology programmes, for potentially targeting specific demographics or disciplines. Enhance the research experience for undergraduate and graduate students by providing more opportunities for participation.

Research: Establish research focus areas in emerging or important fields of microbiology, such as antimicrobial resistance, microbial ecology or bioremediation. Secure funding for research projects through grants, partnerships, or industry collaborations. Increase the number of high quality publications peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Service: Expand public outreach programmes to educate the community about microbiology and its relevance to everyday life. Develop collaborations with other institutions and government agencies on public health initiative or environmental projects. Offer commercial microbiology services such as diagnostics or bio-processing, if applicable to the department expertise.

Department Growth: Recruit and retain top faculty in key areas of microbiology research. Modernize laboratory facilities and equipment to stay at the forefront of scientific advancement. Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within the department to promote teamwork and innovation.

LIST OF NON-TEACHING STAFF