

B-SC-HONS in Microbiology at University of Delhi


Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Microbiology at University of Delhi Delhi?
This B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology program at University of Delhi focuses on the in-depth study of microorganisms, their biology, genetics, ecology, and diverse applications. Given India''''s rapidly expanding biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and food processing sectors, a strong foundation in microbiology is critically important. The program''''s comprehensive curriculum, structured under UGCF 2022, offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills, preparing students for diverse roles in research and industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a profound interest in biological sciences, particularly in understanding microscopic life forms and their impact. It suits aspiring researchers, quality control specialists, public health professionals, or those keen on environmental science. Graduates seeking entry into India''''s burgeoning biotech, food, and pharma industries, or considering higher studies like M.Sc. and Ph.D. in related fields, will find this program highly beneficial and career-defining.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as microbiologists, research associates, lab technicians, or quality control analysts across various Indian companies and government sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning between INR 8-15 LPA. Growth trajectories include R&D management, bioprocess development, and specialized roles in clinical diagnostics or public health, aligning well with professional certifications in areas like clinical research or food safety.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Concepts and Lab Techniques- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core microbiology principles, cell biology, and biochemistry. Dedicate significant time to practical classes, meticulously mastering microscopy, various staining methods, media preparation, and aseptic techniques. Form peer study groups to discuss complex theoretical topics and review lab procedures for deeper comprehension.
Tools & Resources
University lab manuals, Recommended textbooks, Online resources like NPTEL and Khan Academy, Peer-led study sessions
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge and practical skills are indispensable for all future specialized roles, forming the bedrock for success in research, diagnostics, and industrial applications.
Develop Strong Scientific Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom presentations, group discussions, and scientific writing assignments. Practice summarizing research papers and effectively conveying complex scientific information clearly, both orally and in written reports. Seek constructive feedback from professors and peers to refine your communication abilities.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Grammarly or similar writing aids, Presentation tools like PowerPoint and Canva, NPTEL courses on technical communication
Career Connection
Essential for effective collaboration within research teams, writing compelling reports, publishing scientific papers, and clearly communicating findings in any scientific or industrial setting in India.
Explore Diverse Microbes and Their Habitats- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in extracurricular activities like microbiology clubs, attend departmental workshops, and visit local labs or research institutes (e.g., IMTECH, CDRI) to observe different microbial cultures and their ecological niches. Begin reading popular science articles and reputable news on recent microbiological discoveries and innovations.
Tools & Resources
Scientific magazines like Nature Microbiology, Science, Local research centers'''' open houses and public lectures, Online science news platforms
Career Connection
Broad exposure helps identify areas of genuine interest early, guiding future specialization choices and demonstrating enthusiasm and proactive learning to potential employers or for higher studies.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Knowledge through Mini-Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-5 (during summer breaks or within semesters if feasible))
Actively seek out opportunities for short-term research projects with faculty members or internships (2-4 weeks) at local diagnostic labs, food processing units, or breweries. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, from microbial culture techniques to basic molecular biology procedures.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Departmental notices for research opportunities, Online internship platforms like Internshala, LinkedIn, Faculty mentorship for project guidance
Career Connection
Practical experience is invaluable for understanding industry workflows, developing hands-on skills, building a professional network, and significantly enhancing your resume for future placements and higher studies.
Specialize in Key Areas of Interest- (Semester 3-5)
Based on coursework in genetics, immunology, and industrial microbiology, identify a specific area (e.g., virology, food safety, genetic engineering) that genuinely interests you. Deepen your knowledge by reading advanced texts, attending specialized webinars, and carefully selecting relevant Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) and Generic Electives (GEs).
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks and research journals, Online courses from Coursera, edX, or Swayam in specialized areas, Faculty mentorship and guidance
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for targeted roles and advanced education programs, showcasing expertise and a strong commitment to a particular field within microbiology.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Join college or inter-college competitions such as poster presentations, scientific debate competitions, or quizzes related to microbiology. Regularly attend seminars and guest lectures by industry experts and academic researchers to stay updated on current trends and network with professionals in the field.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards and departmental announcements, Scientific conferences (even virtual ones), Events organized by professional bodies like the Association of Microbiologists of India
Career Connection
Participation builds confidence, enhances presentation skills, expands knowledge beyond the curriculum, and provides crucial networking opportunities, which can lead to research collaborations or job leads.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 7-8)
Leverage the opportunity of the mandatory research project in semesters 7 and 8. Choose a topic aligned with your specialization, work diligently under a mentor, and aim for publishable quality work. This includes thorough literature review, rigorous experimental design, robust data analysis, and meticulous scientific writing.
Tools & Resources
University laboratory facilities and equipment, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS), Scientific databases (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar), Thesis writing guidelines and templates
Career Connection
A strong research project is critical for entry into M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, offers invaluable practical experience in independent research, and demonstrates advanced problem-solving skills highly valued in R&D roles across India.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies Strategically- (Semester 6-8)
Actively attend campus placement drives, participate in mock interviews, and engage in resume-building workshops offered by the university. For higher studies, meticulously research M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, prepare thoroughly for entrance exams (e.g., GATE, CUET-PG), and seek strong letters of recommendation from your professors.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling and placement cells, Online platforms for exam preparation, LinkedIn for professional networking, Alumni network for guidance and insights
Career Connection
This provides a direct path to securing a job immediately after graduation or gaining admission to prestigious national and international universities for advanced degrees, significantly shaping your long-term career trajectory.
Build an Industry-Relevant Professional Network- (Semester 6-8)
Actively connect with professionals met during internships, seminars, and guest lectures on platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in professional societies and alumni events relevant to microbiology. Seek out informational interviews to understand various career paths and gain crucial insights into industry expectations and emerging trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn professional networking platform, Professional associations (e.g., Association of Microbiologists of India), University alumni associations, Industry conferences and workshops
Career Connection
A strong professional network provides mentorship, insights into job opportunities, industry trends, and potential referrals, significantly aiding career advancement and fostering sustained growth in India''''s competitive market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and any one Language in Class XII. Merit will be based on the CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores obtained from the combination of Physics + Chemistry + Biology/Biotechnology + Any one Language from List A.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 176 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC101 | Introduction to Microbiology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | History of Microbiology, Microbial Diversity, Microscopy, Staining Techniques, Sterilization and Disinfection |
| MBHP101 | Introduction to Microbiology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Microscopy and Observation, Staining Procedures, Aseptic Techniques, Culture Media Preparation, Isolation Techniques |
| MBHC102 | Biomolecules (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Carbohydrates Structure and Function, Lipids Structure and Function, Amino Acids and Proteins, Nucleic Acids DNA and RNA, Enzymes and Coenzymes |
| MBHP102 | Biomolecules (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Qualitative Tests for Biomolecules, Quantitative Estimation of Sugars, Estimation of Proteins, Chromatography Techniques, Enzyme Activity Assay |
| MBHC103 | Biophysics (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | pH and Buffers, Spectroscopy Principles, Centrifugation Techniques, Chromatographic Separations, Electrophoretic Techniques |
| MBHP103 | Biophysics (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Preparation of Buffers, Spectrophotometric Measurements, Operation of Centrifuges, Paper and Thin Layer Chromatography, Gel Electrophoresis |
| AECC01 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Course (AEC) | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change and Global Warming, Sustainable Development |
| VACC01 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Indian Constitution Features, Preamble and Its Ideals, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties |
| GE1 | Generic Elective I | Generic Elective (GE) Theory + Practical | 6 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC204 | Cell Biology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells, Cell Organelles Structure, Membrane Transport Mechanisms, Cell Division Mitosis and Meiosis, Cell Cycle Regulation |
| MBHP204 | Cell Biology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Microscopy of Cell Types, Cell Staining Techniques, Study of Mitosis, Cell Viability Assays, Osmosis and Cell Permeability |
| MBHC205 | Principles of Biochemistry (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Bioenergetics and Thermodynamics, Glycolysis and Fermentation, Krebs Cycle and Oxidative Phosphorylation, Photosynthesis and Carbon Fixation, Metabolic Regulation |
| MBHP205 | Principles of Biochemistry (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Estimation of Sugars and Lipids, Enzyme Kinetics Studies, Respiration Rate Measurement, Chromatographic Separation of Pigments, Spectrophotometric Assays |
| MBHC206 | Bioinstrumentation (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | pH Meters and Electrodes, Spectrophotometry and Calorimetry, Centrifugation Ultracentrifugation, Chromatography HPLC GC, Electrophoresis SDS-PAGE |
| MBHP206 | Bioinstrumentation (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Calibration of pH meter, Quantitative Spectrophotometry, Density Gradient Centrifugation, Paper and Column Chromatography, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis |
| AECC02 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Course (AEC) | 2 | Reading Comprehension, Grammar and Vocabulary, Writing Skills Essay Report, Oral Communication Public Speaking, Presentation Skills |
| VACC02 | Digital Empowerment | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Basics of Computer Systems, Internet and Web Browsing, Digital Communication Tools, Cyber Security and Privacy, Digital Payments and Services |
| GE2 | Generic Elective II | Generic Elective (GE) Theory + Practical | 6 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC307 | Genetics (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Mendelian Principles of Inheritance, Gene Interactions and Epistasis, Linkage Crossing Over Mapping, Chromosomal Aberrations, Bacterial and Viral Genetics |
| MBHP307 | Genetics (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Monohybrid Dihybrid Crosses, Chromosome Staining, Bacterial Conjugation, Phage Titration, Mutagenesis in Bacteria |
| MBHC308 | Microbial Physiology and Metabolism (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Microbial Nutrition and Growth, Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration, Bacterial Photosynthesis, Biosynthesis of Macromolecules, Regulation of Metabolism |
| MBHP308 | Microbial Physiology and Metabolism (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Growth Curve Analysis, Effect of Environmental Factors, Enzyme Assays, Pigment Extraction, Metabolite Detection |
| MBHC309 | Immunology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Cells and Organs of Immune System, Antigens and Antibodies, Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immunity, Hypersensitivity and Autoimmunity |
| MBHP309 | Immunology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Blood Grouping, ELISA Technique, Immunodiffusion, Agglutination Reactions, Leukocyte Counting |
| MBSM301 | Bioprospecting and Biomining | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 3 | Microbial Diversity Screening, Secondary Metabolite Production, Bioremediation and Biodegradation, Bioleaching of Metals, Intellectual Property Rights |
| VACC03 | Ethics and Culture | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Ethical Frameworks, Moral Reasoning, Cultural Diversity and Pluralism, Values and Virtues, Professional Ethics |
| GE3 | Generic Elective III | Generic Elective (GE) Theory + Practical | 6 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC410 | Molecular Biology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | DNA Structure and Replication, Transcription RNA Synthesis, Translation Protein Synthesis, Regulation of Gene Expression, DNA Repair Mechanisms |
| MBHP410 | Molecular Biology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | DNA Isolation and Quantification, Restriction Digestion, Polymerase Chain Reaction PCR, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis, Plasmid DNA Isolation |
| MBHC411 | Industrial Microbiology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Fermentation Processes Overview, Microbial Production of Antibiotics, Enzymes and Organic Acids, Bioreactor Design and Operation, Downstream Processing Quality Control |
| MBHP411 | Industrial Microbiology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Production of Alcohol, Citric Acid Fermentation, Antibiotic Sensitivity Test, Strain Improvement Methods, Quality Control of Fermented Products |
| MBHC412 | Medical Microbiology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Bacterial Pathogenesis Mechanisms, Viral Pathogenesis and Diseases, Fungal and Parasitic Infections, Antimicrobial Agents and Resistance, Diagnostic Methods for Infections |
| MBHP412 | Medical Microbiology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Isolation of Pathogens, Identification of Bacteria, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Serological Diagnostic Tests, Culture of Fungi |
| MBSM402 | Fermentation Technology | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 3 | Types of Fermenters, Sterilization of Media and Air, Microbial Culture Development, Process Optimization, Biofuel Production |
| GE4 | Generic Elective IV | Generic Elective (GE) Theory + Practical | 6 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC513 | Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Recombinant DNA Technology Tools, Cloning Vectors and Gene Cloning, Gene Transfer Techniques, Protein Engineering, Applications in Medicine and Agriculture |
| MBHP513 | Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Isolation of Genomic DNA, Restriction Digestion and Ligation, Transformation of E. coli, Screening of Recombinants, Reporter Gene Assays |
| MBHC514 | Food Microbiology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Microorganisms in Food, Food Spoilage Mechanisms, Foodborne Diseases, Food Preservation Techniques, Probiotics and Fermented Foods |
| MBHP514 | Food Microbiology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Microbial Analysis of Food Samples, Detection of Foodborne Pathogens, Food Spoilage Demonstration, Fermented Dairy Products, Sanitation in Food Industry |
| MBHE501 | Environmental Microbiology (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Microbial Ecology, Biogeochemical Cycles, Wastewater Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Bioremediation |
| MBHP501 | Environmental Microbiology (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Microbial Analysis of Water, Soil Microbiological Analysis, Biodegradation Studies, Composting and Biogas Production, Isolation of Microbes from Extreme Environments |
| MBHE503 | Microbial Diagnostics (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Principles of Microbial Diagnostics, Serological Diagnostic Methods, Molecular Diagnostic Techniques, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Quality Control in Diagnostics |
| MBHP503 | Microbial Diagnostics (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | ELISA for Disease Detection, PCR for Pathogen Identification, Western Blotting, Microbial Assays, Sample Collection and Processing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC615 | Bioinformatics & Biostatistics (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Biological Databases, Sequence Alignment BLAST FASTA, Phylogenetic Analysis, Statistical Concepts Mean Mode, Hypothesis Testing t-test ANOVA |
| MBHP615 | Bioinformatics & Biostatistics (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Using NCBI and UniProt, Performing BLAST searches, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Data Analysis with Software R, Statistical Significance Calculations |
| MBHC616 | Virology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Viral Structure and Classification, Viral Replication Cycles, Bacteriophages and Animal Viruses, Antiviral Agents, Viral Vaccines and Therapies |
| MBHP616 | Virology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Phage Plaque Assay, Virus Titration, Hemagglutination Assay, Cell Culture Techniques, Electron Microscopy of Viruses |
| MBHE605 | Pharmaceutical Microbiology (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Microbial Contamination in Pharma, Sterility Testing of Products, Antibiotics Production and Assays, Preservatives in Pharmaceuticals, Quality Control and Good Manufacturing Practices |
| MBHP605 | Pharmaceutical Microbiology (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Microbial Limit Tests, Sterility Testing of Liquids, Antibiotic Potency Assay, Disinfectant Evaluation, Bioburden Testing |
| MBHE607 | Recombinant DNA Technology (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Gene Cloning Strategies, Expression Vectors and Systems, Gene Libraries cDNA Genomic, Site-Directed Mutagenesis, Protein Expression and Purification |
| MBHP607 | Recombinant DNA Technology (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Cloning of a Gene, SDS-PAGE for Protein Analysis, Western Blotting, Reporter Gene Assays, CRISPR-Cas9 Fundamentals |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC717 | Microbial Systematics & Evolution (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Bacterial Taxonomy and Classification, Fungal and Viral Classification, Phylogenetic Methods, Microbial Evolution, Polyphasic Taxonomy |
| MBHP717 | Microbial Systematics & Evolution (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Phenotypic Characterization, Genotypic Characterization 16S rRNA, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Bacterial Identification Kits, Bioinformatics Tools for Taxonomy |
| MBHC718 | Research Methodology & IPR in Microbiology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Principles of Scientific Research, Experimental Design and Data Collection, Statistical Analysis for Research, Intellectual Property Rights Patents, Scientific Writing and Publication Ethics |
| MBHP718 | Research Methodology & IPR in Microbiology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Literature Search and Review, Formulating Research Questions, Experimental Design Exercise, Data Presentation and Interpretation, IPR Case Studies |
| MBHE709 | Bioprocess Technology (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Bioreactor Principles and Types, Fermentation Media Development, Sterilization of Bioreactors, Kinetics of Microbial Growth, Downstream Processing Techniques |
| MBHP709 | Bioprocess Technology (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Batch Fermentation Experiment, Parameter Monitoring in Bioreactor, Product Recovery Techniques, Optimization of Fermentation Conditions, Scale-up Calculations |
| MBHE711 | Vaccine Technology (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Types of Vaccines, Adjuvants and Delivery Systems, Vaccine Development Strategies, Clinical Trials and Regulation, Immunization Programs |
| MBHP711 | Vaccine Technology (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Antigen Preparation, Adjuvant Testing, ELISA for Antibody Detection, Cell-Mediated Immunity Assays, Vaccine Efficacy Studies |
| MBHR701 | Research Project I | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Research Project | 6 | Literature Review, Hypothesis Formulation, Experimental Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Report Writing |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBHC819 | Applied Microbiology (Theory) | Core Course (DSC) | 4 | Microbes in Agriculture Biofertilizers, Environmental Applications Bioremediation, Medical Applications Diagnostics, Industrial Applications Fermentation, Microbial Products Pharmaceuticals |
| MBHP819 | Applied Microbiology (Practical) | Core Course (DSC) Practical | 2 | Biofertilizer Production, Bioremediation Studies, Antimicrobial Agent Discovery, Fermented Food Production, Microbial Enzyme Production |
| MBHR802 | Dissertation / Project Work (Major Research Project) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Research | 12 | Independent Research Design, Advanced Experimental Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MBHE813 | Public Health Microbiology (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, Water and Foodborne Diseases, Airborne Pathogens, Disease Surveillance, Public Health Interventions |
| MBHP813 | Public Health Microbiology (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Water Quality Testing, Food Sample Analysis for Pathogens, Epidemiological Data Analysis, Disinfectant Efficiency Testing, Disease Outbreak Investigation Simulation |
| MBHE815 | Extremophiles & Their Applications (Theory) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Introduction to Extremophiles, Thermophiles and Psychrophiles, Halophiles and Acidophiles, Alkaliphiles and Barophiles, Enzymes and Products from Extremophiles |
| MBHP815 | Extremophiles & Their Applications (Practical) (DSE Option A) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical | 2 | Isolation of Extremophiles, Growth under Extreme Conditions, Enzyme Assays at High/Low Temperatures, Extraction of Biopolymers, Application in Bioremediation |




