School of Science Launches Two New iGEM Teams!

12 Nov 2024

The iGEM competition, founded by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States in 2003, has become the most influential international academic competition in the field of synthetic biology worldwide.

The XJTLU Sci-iGEM team proudly represents the School of Science at XJTLU in the prestigious International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition. This annual contest is a global benchmark in synthetic biology, engaging interdisciplinary fields such as life sciences, mathematics, chemistry, engineering, and big data. Our mission is to tackle pressing environmental and medical challenges through innovative synthetic biology and engineering approaches.

The iGEM teams of XJTLU are dedicated teams in the realm of synthetic biology, having received numerous accolades, including gold, silver, and track nominations in previous competitions. Each year, our project cycle spans from January to November. Beginning in January or February, our students independently collaborate on experiments, modeling, and field research. These efforts culminate in October and November, when we present our findings on an international platform through comprehensive presentations and web displays.

Due to its immense popularity and increased interest by the School of Science students, starting in 2025, the SciXJTLU iGEM teams will be divided into two specialized tracks:

SciXJTLU-Software

With a rich history, SciXJTLU-CHINA focuses on solving synthetic biology challenges using genetic engineering and molecular biology techniques. Under the mentorship and guidance of world leading faculty, students apply engineering principles to establish mathematical models of biological systems, design, and optimize biological parts, materials, and detection systems.

Contact person: Dr. Yongtao Zhu

SciXJTLU-Software

SciXJTLU-Software addresses computational challenges in synthetic biology. By utilizing artificial intelligence and deep learning and under the mentorship and guidance of world leading faculty, students develop predictive models, data analysis, and visualization tools, providing cutting-edge computational solutions for the synthetic biology community and iGEM participants.

Contact person: Dr. Chun Chan

The iGEM competition is not just a contest, it’s a transformative experience that molds future leaders in synthetic biology. Founded in 2003, iGEM has grown from its humble beginnings at MIT to a global phenomenon, inspiring thousands of students from around the world each year. iGEM student participants are known for their creativity, rigor, hard work and dedication to the principles of open science and collaborative innovation. The competition encourages students to build genetically engineered systems that address real-world problems, fostering an environment where education, research, and entrepreneurship converge to benefit society.

iGEM projects often span a wide array of applications, including but not limited to environmental sustainability, health and medicine, biomedical engineering, computational science, bioenergy, and industrial biotechnology. Teams are evaluated on their scientific rigor, innovation, and ability to communicate their work effectively to a diverse audience. This culminates in the Giant Jamboree, a vibrant event, where participants showcase their innovative projects, exchange ideas, and inspire each other to greater scientific heights.

Join Us! We recruit new members every year around December to January.

If you are a highly accomplished student, an innovative thinker, passionate about synthetic biology and eager to contribute to groundbreaking projects, we invite you to join our School of Science teams!

Explore the potential of synthetic biology to reshape the future with us!

Timeline

SciXJTLU iGEM Projects Q&A  :Nov 14, 2024, 1 pm – 2 pm, SA236

Nov 29, 2024: Application Deadline

Dec 9-13, 2024: Interview

End of December: 2024 Selection announcement

How to Apply

Please send your CV to the email below with at least the following information (name, programme, grade, academic or other experiences, specific strengths or skills related to iGEM, and preferred team (SciXJTLU-CHINA or SciXJTLU-Software).

Email: SCI.iGEM@xjtlu.edu.cn

12 Nov 2024