What is IGEM?
International genetically modified machines (IGEM) are international competition of synthetic biological proposals for university student teams from accredited educational institutions. IGEM, organized by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston, Massachusetts, is to support the interest in synthetic biology and introduce students from the international scene to the basic concepts of biology and engineering. Students have the opportunity to develop independent learning skills and conduct innovative research in the technology of genetic components.
Originally a monthly design course performed during an independent MIT activity in January 2003, IGEM became the summer competition with teams from five schools that competed. In 2005, the competition was officially named IGEM and exchanged its format focused on an independent research oriented and had 13 participants from four countries. In 2006, 37 teams participated in the worldwide participants since then.
To meet everyone, international competitionIt has two plans. Schools with a summer break in June, July and August can participate in the competition at the beginning of the summer competitions. In July, August and September it is for schools with a summer break.
teams can have any number of members, but one team is prohibited and the standard is usually up to 12 students. Members can be from the same school or from different schools. One school can sponsor more teams.
university students can be from different disciplines; Ph.D students are only allowed in the mentor capacity. Each team requires at least two advisors and one of them must be a member of the Faculty of School sponsoring the team. Advisors provide technical and educational lines, help Arrange Lab Space and project financing and maintain official contact with IGEM.
Team research and project research usually start at the beginning of the year, but in May registration, submission of the proposalTeam project and payment of registration and fees for participation. The register of standard biological parts to MIT then sends a genetic set of tools to each team. It consists of DNA and genes that are governed by a standard called Biobrick ™ and can be assembled to create new biological systems.
Students are encouraged to be as creative as possible and can perform more than one project. They are obliged to document their team information, project selection, a list of used genetic parts and a detailed work process on Wiki IGEM. Proper assignment is necessary to distinguish the work performed by the team and the role played by advisors and external laboratories.
Final projects are presented to mid -October. In November, at the annual Jamboree, each tea presents a 20 -minute presentation of its project in front of the jury. In various categories there is a range of prizes and Grand Biobrick ™ Trophy for the winning team.