Contemporary knowledge in the form of reading and textbooks. Gerhard Gottschalk presents microbiology in all its breadth. In 12 parts, each with several chapters, microbiology is conveyed to the reader in a very understandable way. Each chapter consists of an easily readable description and a corresponding learning unit with a question catalog. Moreover, most chapters include contributions from renowned scientists in the respective field. Historical breakthroughs are described, providing students with insights into the thought processes and planning structures of scientific work. For example, Stefan Hell describes his STED microscopy, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2014. All important areas of microbiology are covered, from evolution to microbial metabolism, technical applications, gene transfer, and endosymbionts.