4 May 2005
Microbiology Detectives - Who Started the Epidemic?
Photo Opportunity: Saturday May 7, 11.30 pm, Biological Sciences Institute Laboratory, Miller's
Wynd, University of Dundee
When there's a spread of an infectious disease, one of the most important things to discover is
where the infection started. On Saturday, 7 May, thirty school pupils will simulate the spread of
an infectious disease and then carry out investigative experiments to discover who started the
epidemic.
The event, called "The Good, the Bad and the Deadly -An Exploration of the Microbial World", is
the first in the series of four Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) Masterclasses taking place this
term, organised by the School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee.
The pupils will each have a fluid filled test tube, and will exchange a small amount of their
fluid into someone else’s tube. Once everyone has exchanged fluids, each pupil will introduce a
pH indicator to their fluid, which will turn it a specific colour if infected. A pattern of
infection will be seen and the start of the epidemic found.
The aim of the Masterclass is to introduce the pupils to the microscopic world of microbes, at
which time they will learn about the range, shape, characteristics and function of microbes and how
they exist in a wide range of habitats from hot springs to the icy wastes of the Antarctic. They
will also learn how 99% of all bacteria are helpful and how man has learned to exploit microbial
activity to produce medicines, food and enzymes to clean-up wastes.
Dr Hilary-Kay Young will lead the investigation, along with Dr Peter Rowell and technical staff
from the Life Sciences Teaching Unit.
The S1 and S2 pupils from schools across Dundee, Tayside and Perth & Kinross will also conduct
experiments using probiotic yoghurt and milk drinks to see if they contain lots of live bacteria,
as the manufacturers say they do. They will also use a special staining technique and microscopes
to visualise the bacteria present.
The RSE Masterclasses are offered to secondary pupils who have shown an enthusiasm and flair for
science and technology. Pupils have the opportunity to benefit from exposure to the inspiration of
experts at the University, and the opportunity to roll-up their sleeves and take-on practical,
hands-on challenges.
For further information on the Masterclasses please contact Emma Faragher, Education Assistant,
RSE, on 0131 240 5000.
By Roddy Isles, Head of Press 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, r.isles@dundee.ac.uk | 
