Welcome to our Education & Outreach page for the 2023 IGEM project.
In addition to innovating, our hardworking team set out this year to inform, motivate, and involve a wide range of audiences. We've been busy on several fronts, from our "Expanding Horizons" workshop in Abu Dhabi to our "Catalysing Curiosity" programme that sparks students' interest in learning in the classroom. Our "Bridging the Gap" programme, which helps the economically disadvantaged and the visually impaired access scientific information, exemplifies this core philosophy.
We have made remarkable achievements in building a thriving and inclusive scientific community, whether through our "Bioremediation Conclave" or by partnering with prestigious institutions, as we have investigated the enormous potential of biosurfactants in addressing heavy metal toxicity. Come along with us on this educational adventure!
Education is a top priority in India because of the country's status as a developing nation. Because of this, it was essential to spread the word about how heavy metal toxicity in India's rivers directly results from the country's rapid industrialisation and the potential strategies to mitigate this issue.
Catalysing curiosity
At iGEM, we believe in nurturing the scientific interest of young minds. Our recent educational sessions across various schools are a testament to this commitment. We've ventured into classrooms to inspire and educate young minds. These interactive sessions introduce students to diverse scientific fields, simplifying complex concepts with real-world examples. We aim to kindle their interest in biology, genetics, and the potential of synthetic biology, encouraging them to explore science's limitless possibilities. Results were positive, as evident from the post-session assessments, where students showcased a commendable grasp of the topics discussed. These sessions plant the seeds of scientific passion and show them the interdisciplinary nature of research, encouraging them to ideate and design their experiments. Join us as we navigate these enlightening school sessions, showcasing the transformative force of education and outreach in science.
Catalysing Curiosity
A session was held in Khaitan school, attended by almost 200+ students and an audience of students in grades 5 and 6. We began with different fields of scientific research, then explained different subfields of biology and gave real-world examples related to these fields to the students. Then, we discussed general research and concluded with a Q&A session. The module we presented to the students sparked their interest in Scientific research. The students posed excellent questions; we were delighted to respond.
To analyse how much students learned from our session, we gave them a test after handing them a post-assessment sheet with some questions from whatever we taught them. When we assessed the sheets, we discovered that many students understood most of what we covered in the session. The instructors from the school who were present in the session praised our work and asked if we might hold further sessions or make arrangements for their students to visit our lab and receive a physical taste of synthetic biology.
Khaitan School Session Class 7 & 8
The education session at Khaitan School prioritises the education of students (classes 7 & 8) in various scientific research domains so that they pursue science streams in high school. Beginning with an overview of key research fields and famous projects spanning physics, mathematics, chemistry, economics, and more, the session delved into subfields of biology.
On 5 October 2023, a team conducted an informative session titled "A First Introduction to Synthetic Biology" at The Air Force School, Subroto Park, targeting students in classes 9 and 10, aged 14-15. During the session, students were introduced to the concept of Synthetic Biology and the iGEM competition, gaining insight into the possibilities of interdisciplinary research and career opportunities in this field. The team also presented an overview of their project, 'BioSurf,' showcasing how synthetic biology could address real-world problems. The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, and the students' enthusiastic questions demonstrated their newfound curiosity about biology while also recognising the value of scientific research as a viable career option.
This session aimed not only to familiarise students with Synthetic Biology but also to emphasise the importance of each scientific field in contributing to problem-solving. It encouraged students to consider scientific research a valid career choice, as evidenced by their inquiries about the potential paths to pursue such a career. The team's efforts positively impacted the students, sparking their interest in biology and fostering an appreciation for the role of science in addressing real-world challenges.
In a recent engagement at Sardar Patel Vidyalaya, New Delhi, students aged 16-18 were introduced to synthetic biology's vast and evolving world. The session began by tracing the biology journey, drawing parallels with the rapid advancements in physics during the 19th and 20th centuries. As they delved into synthetic biology, the students were enlightened about the DBTL cycle (Design, Build, Test, Learn) – a foundational concept in this domain. To showcase real-world applications and the myriad opportunities synthetic biology presents, the team discussed projects including BioSurf and other groundbreaking iGEM initiatives like Fisherly, AstroBio, and ELIXIO.
The most engaging segment was the hands-on activity, where students conceptualised their research experiments. They explored topics ranging from enhancing radiation immunity to slowing down ageing. Through this exercise, they grasped the end-to-end research process. The session underscored the interdisciplinary essence of synthetic biology, emphasising the convergence of computer science, mathematics, and physics, especially in areas like modelling and simulations. Students were made aware of dry labs' crucial role in predicting experimental outcomes, saving both time and resources. Furthermore, the emerging prominence of AI and machine learning in this field was highlighted, inspiring young minds to consider interdisciplinary research in their future endeavours.
Gene-ious at Play
Our team has been proactive in developing entertaining and instructive biology activities for people of all ages. We organised a Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology Awareness Seminar for students in grades 6-10 to present these critical disciplines and promote awareness of their societal ramifications. We made studying interesting by using interactive exercises like a biotechnology crossword puzzle and a Heads-Up game with flashcards to boost students' grasp of these concepts. In addition, we created "BioSynth: Genomic Conquest," a strategic board game that immerses players in genetics and genomics, making biology a fun experience for everyone. These programmes demonstrate our dedication to improving biology education in novel and exciting ways.
Gene-ious at Play
A Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology Awareness Seminar was organised for students in grades 6–10 to acquaint them with these critical subjects and their social implications. The effort attempted to inculcate in young minds a sense of responsibility and concern for the environment by emphasising the moral, sociological, and ecological dimensions of biotechnology, mainly through the iGEM Human Practises programme. The lecture included interactive exercises such as a crossword puzzle with biotechnology words and a Heads-Up game with flashcards, which effectively engaged students in learning, improved their grasp of biotechnology, and made learning fun.
The crossword problem presented students with essential biotechnology topics, making learning more enjoyable and interactive. This strategy grabbed students' interest and helped them remember the vocabulary. The Heads-Up game, on the other hand, promoted active listening and communication skills by having students define complicated words in more straightforward language. Errors throughout the game helped solidify their comprehension, resulting in a memorable and fun learning experience. Overall, these interactive strategies were beneficial in raising students understanding of biotechnology and synthetic biology and motivating them to pursue future studies and professions in these domains.
To present the idea of biology more amusingly, our team created a fun game inspired by Uno called “Bio-Synth: A Genomic Conquest”.
"BioSynth: Genomic Conquest" is a strategy board game that immerses players in genetics and genomics. Participants in this competitive game strategically build genetic sequences on their creatures using DNA Sequence Cards (A, T, C, G). The gameplay becomes even more dynamic with adding Power Cards such as Mutation and Catalyst cards. Players roll dice to receive DNA Sequence Cards, which they then use to create legitimate genetic sequences. The race to genomic dominance is to be the first to finish three genomic sequences. This game entertains and educates players about genetics and sequencing engagingly and interactively, making it an excellent learning method.
The game's components, which include the game board, DNA Sequence Cards, Organism Tokens, and Power Cards, provide players with an immersive experience. Including Catalyst and Mutation cards in the game adds a layer of strategy and unpredictability, guaranteeing that each round presents a new and exciting challenge. BioSynth offers an enjoyable and instructive experience, whether you're a genetic enthusiast or just searching for a unique and intriguing board game.
Bridging the Gap
As part of the "Bridging the Gap" initiative, our team engaged with underprivileged students through a session conducted at VIDYA NGO in New Delhi, introducing them to biology and research and emphasising the potential of science as a career while recognising the daily challenges these students face. Additionally, our visits to the National Authority for the Blind (NAB) provided insights into the unique challenges visually impaired children face, fostering personal interactions and highlighting the need for more inclusive educational materials and support in pursuing STEM subjects. These experiences have deepened our commitment to underprivileged and visually impaired communities, underscoring the importance of inclusive research initiatives at the intersection of science and societal inclusion.
Bridging the Gap
In response to worrying statistics regarding underprivileged students in India, an urgent need for quality and accessible education for this section of society becomes evident. Charitable organisations and NGOs are crucial in addressing these pressing issues, particularly in education. Among the notable NGOs focused on educating the underprivileged, VIDYA stands out in Kendriya Vidyalaya, Hauz Khas, New Delhi.
VIDYA's mission is to unlock the potential of underprivileged children, youth, and women by providing holistic education through schools, colleges, collaborations, and community programs. Our team reached out to VIDYA and, after establishing contact, conducted an informative and engaging session for underprivileged students, introducing them to the world of biology and our scientific projects. The session not only shed light on the possibilities of science as a career but also highlighted the daily challenges these students face, emphasizing the importance of encouraging and normalizing research as a viable career path for these young minds.
Our team, as part of our outreach to the less fortunate communities, visited the National Authority for the Blind (NAB) as part of our project, Biosurf, focused on bioremediation of heavy metal ions. The visit had dual objectives: to gain insights into the unique challenges faced by visually impaired children and to motivate them to explore scientific research. Our team made multiple visits, fostering personal interactions to better understand individual issues.
We successfully engaged with children who shared their experiences, notably highlighting the need for more accessible educational materials, navigation solutions, and guidance on pursuing STEM subjects with visual impairments. These interactions have not only enriched our team's understanding but also paved the way for more inclusive and impactful research initiatives. Our team is now more committed than ever to making a positive impact in the lives of these children and the visually impaired community at large, showcasing the intersection of scientific research and societal inclusion.
Expanding Horizons
As part of IIT Delhi's outreach program for the newly established IIT Delhi campus in Abu Dhabi, a Genetics and Genomics Workshop was conducted to introduce them to vast opportunities in the field. Participation from 200+ students of grades 9 to 12 was observed. The event started with a session on the basics of genetics, genomics and synthetic biology, wherein they were taught about the field's terminology, applications and career prospects. A banana DNA isolation workshop and a hands-on workshop on bioinformatics tools like BLAST, UniProt, NCBI, etc succeeded. Students were also given interactive material in the form of a booklet with exciting puzzles on the topics and flyers to inform them about iGEM, motivating them to join the team.
Expanding Horizons
As part of the outreach programme for the newly formed IIT Delhi campus in Abu Dhabi, IIT Delhi held a Genetics and Genomics Workshop. The workshop's goal was to educate approximately 200 students in grades 9 through 12 to the exciting potential in genetics and genomics. The programme began with a discussion on the fundamentals of genetics, genomics, and synthetic biology. It gave knowledge of the vocabulary, applications, and professional opportunities in the discipline. Following that, students participated in hands-on activities such as separating DNA from fruits, using genomic tools online, and discussing career options in the genomics sector. They were also given interactive materials, such as puzzle books and iGEM brochures, to encourage them to join the team. The need of knowing genetics as a fast expanding discipline with numerous applications was emphasised at the event.
The programme featured activities such as translating DNA sequences, extracting DNA from fruits and vegetables, analysing viral genome sequences from affected patients, and researching how individual DNA influences taste preferences and the decision to smoke or not. These activities gave participants hands-on experience in genetics and genomics and encouraged them to explore the fascinating world of DNA.
The event also sought to increase awareness about the ethical, legal, and social consequences of genomics. The favourable response from participants, as well as their eagerness to join the field and the iGEM team, demonstrates the workshop's effectiveness in creating interest and encouraging a better grasp of genomics and its ethical issues. This programme not only gave important hands-on experience, but it also sparked significant discussions on the potential and ethical implications of genomics in our lives.
Bioremediation Conclave
The Bioremediation Conclave, a three-day event, brought together bioremediation specialists, professionals, and iGEM teams. Prof. Dr. Suparna Mukherji and Dr. Kevin Sowers led the first day with incisive talks on biosurfactants and in-situ treatment of PCB-contaminated sediments, prompting lively discussions among the 40-45 attendees. Prof. Dr. MNV Prasad explored bioremediation in the framework of a circular economy, while Prof. Sonal Ayakar addressed the role of synthetic biology in genetic machines for bioremediation, with 35-40 persons in attendance. For almost 50 guests, the third day included iGEM teams from around the world, facilitating information sharing and advancing synthetic biology in bioremediation. This successful colloquium, organized in partnership with the MIT-MAHE iGEM team, intended to learn from professionals and researchers about various bioremediation practices.
Bioremediation Conclave
The Bioremediation Conclave was a comprehensive three-day event that brought together experts, professionals, and iGEM teams with a focus on bioremediation. The first day featured insightful presentations by esteemed speakers, Prof. Dr. Suparna Mukherji and Dr. Kevin Sowers, who covered topics ranging from the role of biosurfactants in bioremediation to in-situ treatment of PCB-contaminated sediments. These presentations not only provided valuable insights but also encouraged active discussions and idea exchange among the 40-45 attendees, fostering a deeper understanding of bioremediation.
The second day continued the intellectual journey with Prof. Dr. MNV Prasad discussing the potential of bioremediation in the context of a circular economy, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Prof. Sonal Ayakar further explored the role of synthetic biology in designing genetic machines for bioremediation. The engaged audience of around 35-40 participants actively contributed to these discussions, highlighting the event's success. The third day expanded the conversation globally by featuring iGEM teams from around the world who presented their bioremediation projects. The event not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also sparked curiosity and accessibility to synthetic biology in bioremediation for the general public, with more than 50 attendees from various regions. The collaboration between MIT-MAHE and our team iGEM IIT-Delhi proved to be immensely successful in organizing this informative and engaging conclave.
Institute Events
Our iGEM team's dedication to advancing synthetic biology and genetic engineering at IIT Delhi is reflected in a series of comprehensive and engaging events. From biosafety training sessions that equip our team with the knowledge and skills needed for safe and responsible biological research to a science communication workshop focused on enhancing communication skills, we are actively promoting safety, education, and the effective dissemination of scientific knowledge. Our outreach extends to the academic community with collaborative initiatives like the GENE-ric Quiz, strengthening the foundation of genetics and related subjects, while our bioethics group discussion, held during the campus tech fest, thoughtfully explores the ethical dimensions of synthetic biology. These events not only foster a deeper understanding of these critical fields but also encourage students and faculty to actively participate, collaborate, and envision a future shaped by the responsible exploration of science and technology.
Institute Events
A comprehensive biosafety training session provided our iGEM team with essential knowledge and skills for the responsible and safe handling of biological materials. The session emphasized the significance of adhering to safety guidelines, including lab access protocols and the proper use of personal protective equipment. It also covered various aspects of biosafety, such as equipment usage, microbial techniques, disinfection, sterilization, and emergency protocols, ensuring that the team was well-prepared to conduct biological research responsibly and maintain a secure laboratory environment. This knowledge proved to be invaluable as our team advances in our synthetic biology project, promoting safety and responsible scientific exploration.
In summary, the session served as a crucial foundation for understanding and implementing biosafety protocols and practices, equipping our team with the necessary skills to conduct our research safely and responsibly.
Orientation and Tour of Stalls
Our goal was to reach out to various undergraduate students in diverse branches to educate them on Synthetic Biology and forums such as iGEM so that they might pursue SynBio in their future studies and research. We introduced synthetic biology to our audience in a simple way ensuring that all attendees could grasp the fundamental principles. The goal is to pique people's interest in Synthetic Biology and iGEM.
The iGEM Club's orientation and tour of stalls at IIT Delhi provided an informative and interactive platform for both new and existing members. The students were provided with a captivating insight into the world of Synthetic Biology.The event not only showcased the club's dedication to innovation and research but also encouraged active participation and collaboration, furthering the advancement of synthetic biology and genetic engineering
The GENE-ric Quiz, a collaborative endeavor by iGEM and Quizzing Club, IIT Delhi, achieved its intended objectives by promoting engagement, facilitating learning of genetics and related subjects . The event provided an intellectually stimulating platform for participants, encouraging them to think critically and broaden their understanding of genetics and related fields. The GENE-ric Quiz was well-received, highlighting the success of collaborative efforts between academic clubs and societies in organizing enriching and competitive events at IIT Delhi.
This event set a precedent for future academic collaborations, promising more intellectually enriching events for the student community. By promoting SynBio in an engaging and interactive manner, the event achieved its objective of encouraging the exploration of genetic engineering and Synthetic Biology among undergraduate students. The quiz successfully ignited curiosity, setting the stage for further involvement and research in this transformative area of science and technology
The Science Communication Workshop, conducted on 9th September as part of our iGEM 2023 project's Education Outreach, was an initiative to improve science communication skills. Led by our team instructor, the workshop aimed to familiarize participants with effective science communication principles, and impart practical skills for conveying scientific information . Divided into five sections, the workshop covered fundamental concepts, written and visual communication, verbal and multimedia communication, and interactive public engagement techniques, making sure participants left with good ways for science communication.
It emphasized the importance of ongoing practice and encouraged participants to showcase their work through various platforms, enhancing the dissemination of scientific knowledge and fostering curiosity. Looking ahead, the workshop's impact is expected to resonate as participants apply their newfound skills, contributing to the broader goal of advancing science communication and inspiring a deeper understanding of scientific concepts among diverse audiences.
A thought-provoking Bio-Ethics Group Discussion was organised at Tryst, the campus tech fest, to involve both students and staff in debates about bioethical challenges connected to synthetic biology. This event's selection procedure was exceedingly competitive, with participants originally needing to submit essays analysing bioethics in response to a particular question. The evaluation panel, lead by Prof Amit Das of IIT Delhi, assessed critical thinking capabilities, topic comprehension, and communication talents among 15 individuals chosen from a large number of submissions.
The group discussion was divided into two rounds, each focusing on a different aspect of bioethics. The first round of discussion focused on the ethical implications of gene editing for environmental conservation, including possible hazards and benefits. The second round delves into the thorny subject of designer babies, investigating the societal repercussions and ethical constraints of genetically manipulating embryos. The event sought to promote not just critical thought on the ethical elements of biotechnological advances, but also a better grasp of bioethics, fostering ethical reasoning and responsible behaviour in the field of biotechnology. This effort emphasises the significance of incorporating bioethics into research in order to create and preserve public confidence in genetic engineering, as well as the need to evaluate the societal worth and future repercussions of scientific progress.
Curriculum review
In India, iGEM teams from IISc Bangalore and IIT Delhi are driving significant changes in biology education. They collaborated to introduce Synthetic Biology concepts into the school curriculum, engaging with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), a key player in shaping school curricula. The proposal received a positive response, with NCERT committee member Mrs. Ranjana Arora advocating for a comprehensive review of the existing biotechnology syllabus, integrating Synthetic Biology into junior-grade biology chapters. Simultaneously, IIT Delhi explored the inclusion of a Synthetic Biology course, finding enthusiasm from the Department Head, recognizing its potential to enrich the curriculum, improve student engagement, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. These initiatives promise to empower students with knowledge and skills for navigating the evolving landscape of Synthetic Biology.
Curriculum review
The iGEM team from IISc Bangalore and our team iGEM IIT Delhi collaborated to draft a proposal aimed at enhancing the biotechnology syllabus in school curriculum by introducing concepts of Synthetic Biology, intending to stimulate the interest of inquisitive students. We reached out to the premier educational body in India, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), responsible for shaping school curricula. After initial outreach via formal emails, our team members engaged directly with NCERT committee member Mrs. Ranjana Arora .
She not only offered valuable feedback but also recommended a comprehensive review of the existing biotechnology syllabus and the exploration of potential integrations of biotechnology and synthetic biology concepts into junior-grade biology chapters. Mrs. Arora expressed enthusiasm for presenting the collaborative proposal to the NCERT committee, showcasing a promising step towards enriching science education in India.
The possibility of implementing a Synthetic Biology course was discussed with the Incharge of Departmental Curriculum Review, Prof. Ravi Krishna Elangovan during a recent Curriculum Review Meeting at IIT Delhi, and the conversation resulted in excellent conclusions. The Department Head stated his willingness to include Synthetic Biology as a special subject course, recognising its potential to enrich the curriculum and give students with a well-rounded biology education. The benefits of such a course were highlighted in key points, including increased student engagement, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, improving job prospects in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, facilitating research opportunities, and instilling a critical ethical dimension in students' future careers.
The conference signalled a promising beginning for the inclusion of the Synthetic Biology course, with intentions to involve faculty, construct a detailed course design, and obtain the resources needed to successfully introduce students to this exciting topic. This programme, with departmental assistance, seeks to provide students with vital knowledge and abilities in Synthetic Biology, ensuring they keep up to speed with developing advancements and promoting their capacity to think creatively and work across multiple fields.
Engaging with the Science Community
The All India iGEM Meet (AIIM) in July 2023 was a significant three-day event that brought iGEM teams from across India together to promote cooperation, project presentations, and educational sessions. The first day began with sponsor highlights, entrepreneurial conversations, and a biology modelling session, encouraging team interactions. Day 2 was devoted to in-depth project presentations and feedback sessions, to prepare teams for the Grand Jamboree. On Day 3, poster presentations facilitated information exchange by simplifying complicated project displays. iGEM IITD also got the chance to speak at Biosphere, sponsored by IIT Delhi's DBEB, and recommended the development of a National Biotechnology Day in India, which was well-received by the Department of Biotechnology. Our lecture at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi was well received, creating a better knowledge of genetics and its importance among students.
Engaging with the Science Community
The All India iGEM Meet (AIIM) held between 28th to 30th July 2023 was a three-day event that brought together iGEM teams across India, providing a platform for collaboration, idea exchange, and project presentations. The event included informative sessions, engaging discussions, and competitive elements. Day 1 commenced with an inauguration, sponsor spotlights, a fireside chat with entrepreneurs, and an elevator pitch for iGEM startup ideas. It concluded with a practical workshop on mathematical modelling in biology. A campus tour encouraged bonding and collaboration among teams. Day 2 was dedicated to in-depth project presentations and judging sessions, where teams unveiled detailed versions of their projects, received feedback, and gained valuable insights. The rigorous presentations and Q&A sessions prepared teams for the final judging sessions at The Grand Jamboree. Day 3 featured poster presentations and interactions, allowing teams to present their projects simplified and attractively. AIIM facilitated knowledge sharing, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of each team's projects, ultimately strengthening the iGEM community in India.
Our team iGEM IITD had the opportunity to present our projects, 'LEAD-er' and 'BioSurf,' at Biosphere, an annual event hosted by the Department of Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering (DBEB) at IIT Delhi. This event is a platform for researchers, including PhD students and Postdoctorates, to showcase their work through presentations and posters. Our team presented our work to a diverse audience, including esteemed guest speakers, professors, and fellow students. This experience provided valuable insights and suggestions for the budding 'BioSurf' project. The presentation and poster were well-received, offering the team essential exposure and learning opportunities.
The iGEM team from IISc Bengaluru and our team from iGEM IIT Delhi collaboratively devised a proposal advocating for the establishment of a National Biotechnology Day in India. This initiative aimed to educate the public about the applications and significance of biotechnology, particularly synthetic biology, in shaping the country's future. Our objective was to enhance awareness, spark interest, and foster an informed appreciation of biotechnology's daily-life implications, ultimately catalysing national progress in biotechnological research and applications. To implement this initiative nationally, we engaged with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science & Technology, India's primary authority on biotechnology, headquartered in Delhi.
Our proposal was well-received, with officials acknowledging the importance of promoting biotechnology awareness and supporting the cause. We were introduced to Dr. Amit P. Parikh, who was notably receptive to the proposal and committed to advocating for it at the highest levels within the department. The visit was productive and enlightening, offering optimism about the potential recognition and realisation of a National Biotechnology Day in India.
During our recent visit to Abu Dhabi, we had the privilege of presenting our research at Zayed University. The audience was a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students majoring in Sustainability, with esteemed faculty members and dedicated researchers. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive. The faculty, in particular, expressed their appreciation and commendation for our work. It was evident that our presentation resonated with the attendees, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our research in the field of Genomics
Bringing Science to the Masses
As part of our mission to extend SynBio knowledge to the non-Bio majors and the non-scientific world, we prepared a “Bring Science to the Masses' campaign. First, iGEM IIT Delhi held a productive meeting with Professor Nihar Ranjan Jana and students from IIT Kharagpur, focusing on raising awareness of the iGEM Competition and the significance of synthetic biology in top Indian institutes. The meeting successfully motivated students to participate in the competition, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the iGEM community. In addition, a BioArt Competition collaboration between IIT Delhi and Manipal Institute of Technology aimed to bridge science and art, celebrating diversity and creative exploration of global challenges. The competition showcased original artworks that effectively communicated real-world problems and biological solutions through diverse cultural perspectives. Furthermore, IIT Delhi's informative poster campaign on heavy metal toxicity targeted the general public, emphasising the dangers of heavy metal exposure and the importance of early detection. Leveraging social media, they achieved 2x engagement, harnessing its potential to spread knowledge and connect a global audience passionate about synthetic biology.
Bringing Science to the Masses
The meeting between our team and IIT Kharagpur’s professor and students aimed at raising awareness about the iGEM Competition and synthetic biology's significance among top institutes in India. The goal was to motivate students in the biological sciences departments to participate in this world-class competition through their respective colleges, allowing them to showcase their talents and address local issues globally through synthetic biology. Our team successfully set up an online meeting with Prof. Nihar Ranjan Jana, the HOD of the Department of Biotechnology at IIT Kharagpur, and interested students.
During the meeting, we provided a comprehensive overview of the iGEM Competition, its evolution, team formation, project ideation, and fundraising challenges and shared insights from our experiences. This successful outreach achieved its goal of spreading awareness and ignited the potential for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, fostering a sense of pride and motivation within the iGEM community.
BioArt Competition:The BioArt Competition, a collaborative effort between iGEM teams from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and the Manipal Institute of Technology Manipal Academy of Higher Education, sought to bridge the gap between science and art while celebrating cultural diversity. The competition aimed to encourage creative exploration of global challenges by inviting artists to express these issues through the lens of their cultural backgrounds. The objectives of the BioArt Competition included promoting creativity, celebrating diversity, ensuring originality and relevance in submitted artworks, and assessing their ability to communicate real-world problems and potential biological solutions effectively.
The competition followed a structured format, beginning with the submission phase, where participants could submit their original artwork addressing global challenges. A crucial aspect was the Diversity and Culture Showcase, where participants infused their cultural heritage into their creations. Dr. Balaji S. from MIT-MAHE was the judge, evaluating artworks based on originality, relevance, cultural integration, and visual impact. Awards were given to the winner and a special mention for outstanding creativity and cultural representation. The BioArt Competition successfully celebrated the diversity of biology enthusiasts and their cultural backgrounds, promoting the intersection of art and science and fostering a deeper appreciation for the global impact of biology.
Our team at IIT Delhi has developed an impactful poster targeting the general public, especially our student community, to raise awareness about heavy metal toxicity. Strategically placed in key locations, the poster contains a QR code that leads to our detailed pamphlet, accessible here. This resource delves into the dangers of heavy metal poisoning caused by metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic found in everyday elements such as air, water, and consumer products. Exposure can result from various sources, including contaminated seafood, lead pipes, and certain medications. The health consequences are severe, ranging from fatigue and headaches to severe disorders like cancer and neurological issues. Early detection through medical tests is crucial for appropriate treatment. Our initiative aims to equip the community with knowledge to act proactively against heavy metal exposure.
The motivation to use social media as a tool for spreading synthetic biology education lies in its unparalleled reach and accessibility. We can connect with a global audience through platforms like Facebook and Instagram, transcending geographical boundaries to share valuable knowledge. Additionally, social media enables real-time engagement, making education interactive and responsive. It cultivates a sense of community, connecting individuals passionate about synthetic biology, fostering discussions, and encouraging collaborative learning. By harnessing the potential of social media, we empower people with the information they need to contribute to this cutting-edge field, ultimately advancing scientific understanding and applications.
To foster an inclusive culture, we regularly posted progress and insights on our instagram page (@igemiitd) and ensured it gained maximum traction. Over the course of the project, we achieved 2x social media engagement.
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