The various aspects of a course on use of technology from molecular biology to screen microorganism in environmental samples and to monitor microbial biocatalysts in reactors, is discussed. The objective of the course is to teach students to adapt techniques from molecular biology to address important issues in environmental engineering. In case of methanogens, design considerations in environmental engineering include stabilization of sewage sludge through anaerobic digestion and wastewater treatment. The hands-on format encourages students to develop scientific questions, learn appropriate methodology, conduct careful experimentation, and draw conclusions worthy of presentation.