The human microbiome is a new, rapidly growing field of microbiology that has already made important contributions to the understanding of human health. This laboratory course utilizes current research methodology to investigate the microbiome of the human skin. Students gain hands-on experience in PCR, genomics, bioinformatics, and modern clinical identification techniques. They also generate primary data to make their own contribution to this important field of research. Prereq: GEN 604; BMS 501, or BMS 503 and BMS 504. Special fee. Lab.