Understanding Microbiology Series

This series will focus on microbiological testing of environmental samples. The series will not train to the TNI Standard, but rather will cover basic and advanced microbiological principals and how to implement requirements of Volume 1 Module 5 of the 2016 TNI Standard. The courses in this series will cover an (1) introduction to microbiological testing as well as testing techniques, (2) quality control, equipment/instrumentation verification, and media reagent preparation, and (3) in-depth information on microbiological methods and technologies. Analysts and assessors seeking to expand their knowledge beyond the Standard can do so by learning in-depth information on microbiological testing.

PART 1: Introduction to Microbiological Testing

This first course will provide participants with a general understanding of microbiological testing, techniques, method scopes and limitations, Quality Control, and technologies.
Topics addressed will include:
Microbiological Analytes

• Microbiological Sample Integrity
• Microbiological Lingo
• Microbiological Positive and Negative Controls
• Basic Microbiological Techniques Such as Serial Dilutions, Sterilization and Aseptic Technique
• Microbiological Test Methods Across Multiple Programs
• Microbiological Technologies and Associated Methods

Learning Objectives:

• Know microbiological testing is unique and important
• Know factors that can impact sample and data integrity
• Know terms and definitions used in microbiological testing
• Know basic microbiological quality control
• Know differences between microbiological testing techniques, methods and technologies in environmental samples

PART 2: Microbiological Testing Supplies, Equipment, and Instrumentation

This course will provide participants with information on common microbiology equipment, instrumentation, and supplies. Verification of equipment, instrumentation and supplies will also be covered.

Topics addressed will include:

• Examples of equipment that will be discussed include but are not limited to: autoclaves, filtration apparatus, incubators/waterbaths, thermometers, dishwashers, and centrifuges
• Examples of instrumentation that will be discussed include but are not limited to microscopes, ELISA spectrophotometers, and thermocyclers
• Examples of supplies that will be discussed include but are not limited to pipets, petri dishes, and disposable funnels

Learning Objectives:

Have a general understanding of microbiological:

• Equipment
• Instrumentation
• Supplies
• The verification requirements for equipment, instrumentation, and supplies

PART 3: Microbiological Quality Control Testing

This course will provide participants with information on microbiological quality control samples, trend analysis and control culture maintenance.

Learning Objectives:

Have a general understanding of microbiological batch Quality Control including:

• Positive/negative control samples
• Control samples such as method blanks, ongoing precision and recovery samples, and matrix spike/matrix spike duplicates 
• Use of calibration curves
• Use of control charts
• Equivalent naming to chemistry control samples
• Reference culture creation and maintenance 

PART 4: Microbiological Testing Media and Reagents 

This course will provide participants with information on creation and verification of microbiological testing media and reagents.

Learning Objectives:

Have a general understanding of microbiological media and reagents related to:

• How to make media and reagents
• Sterility testing
• Performance testing
• Storage Conditions
• Requirements related to Lab Made vs Pre-purchased Media

PART 5: Microbiological Testing Methods 

This course will provide participants with in depth information on microbiological testing methods.

Learning Objectives:

Have a general understanding of microbiological testing methods in relation to:

• The theory/science/history behind the methods
• What each analysis measures and reporting units
• Details related to each analysis including method-specific QC requirements
• Techniques for performing the methods
• Tips, tricks, and troubleshooting
• Pros and cons of various methods
• Applicable method confirmation testing
• Using/processing method data

Intended Audience:

• Analysts, Quality Managers, Technical Managers, Laboratory Managers

Group rates are available: Each purchased webcast is to be viewed by only one student. If you would like multiple viewers, separate purchases must be made. A group rate of $2000 for TNI members or $2250 for non-members is available for groups of 5-10 students at a single location. Click here to purchase this webcast at the group rate.

TNI Members: you must be logged-in to the website to receive the member rate.

No certificates are automatically provided with this training. A Certificate of Completion (CoC) ($60 per person) or Certificate of Attendance (CoA) ($20 per person) may be purchased during registration or webcast purchase. A passing score of at least 70% must be received on the exams in order to receive CEUs and a CoC. Scores of less than 70% will receive a Certificate of Attendance at no reduced fee. For a CoA you will not need to take the quiz and you will not receive CEUs. To receive your certificate, contact Paul Junio at [email protected] with date of purchase, completed quiz (if required) and date of training completion. See FAQs for additional information.

Format:
Webcast

About Webcasts: Upon receipt of your payment, you will receive a special link by e-mail to watch the webcast on your computer. The link is time-limited: you will have full access to the webcast and any associated handouts for 6 months after receipt of payment, at which time the link will expire. Webcasts cannot be downloaded; they are intended for viewing on your computer only during the 6-month window. If you have any questions, please contact Ilona Taunton at [email protected].

Length:
11.5 hours

CEUs: 1.2

Presented By:


TNI Microbiology Expert Committee

About the Presenter:
Chair: Cody Danielson

The Microbiology Expert Committee develops and maintains consensus standards for microbiology that support TNI programs.