Molecular Aquatic Microbial Ecology MCB4631 & MCB5633 (MAME)
​The content of the course will cover current molecular and biochemical methods for elucidating microbial roles and identities greatly influencing life on this planet. The emerging research and focus on microbiomes (human and otherwise) has led the general population to now understand what microbial ecologists have known for years: It is truly a microbial world.​
​Course Objectives:
  -  Identify the physical, chemical, geological characteristics of the marine environment that are most important to microbial life in rivers, oceans and estuaries.
  -  Describe, interpret, and evaluate datasets acquired using contemporary methods of assessing microbial community structure, with an emphasis on molecular biology techniques.
  -  Identify appropriate classification of aquatic microbes and their anatomical, physiological, and ecological characteristics.

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 Advanced Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics for Biologists PCB4125 & PCB5525 (Bioinformatics for Biologists) 
​The objectives of this course are to illustrate advanced molecular biology concepts combined with hands-on instruction in the use of computer-based tools for analyses of macromolecule data. Most datasets used are part of current and recent research projects undertaken by UWF students, scientists, and faculty. Bioinformatics projects will demonstrate tools needed to analyze real-world data sets. You will learn to collect, analyze and present data in electronic laboratory reports. 
Identifying and utilizing relevant current/recent work that supports UWF research. Articulating timely and important research questions and objectives. Meeting the field’s standards for responsible conduct of research, and effectively navigating challenges that arise in the research process. Applying critical thinking skills to evaluate data and new information in the field of biological research and bioinformatics.

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In Spring 2022, Dr. Waidner obtained a UWF "High-Impact Practices" (HIP) grant for her Bioinformatics for Biologists course, to perform cross-disciplinary work with Mr. Thomas Asmuth’s advanced Design course, ART 4619, Advanced Interactive Electronic Art. The new course activities, adding a field and lab component for all students, will expose the Biology students to the engineering needs and considerations for field instrumentation design. It is also designed to improve science communication, especially when conveying STEM concepts to non-science majors, the Design students.