The Missouri Miner team is dedicated to upholding rigorous safety practices in accordance with university and organizational policies. Our commitment to safety begins with a comprehensive risk assessment for all experiments, ensuring that potential hazards are identified and mitigated before any work commences. We adhere to strict laboratory protocols like always wearing closed-toe shoes and pants, emphasizing the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles when necessary. Additionally, our team is well-educated in emergency response procedures for our laboratory, with readily accessible first aid kits and eyewash stations. Safety training is carried out by team student leaders before members are allowed to work in the laboratory. Furthermore, we prioritize the responsible use of biological materials by following containment guidelines, and we have implemented ways to mitigate contamination beyond the laboratory. For example, engineered parts or products of experiments are never transported outside of the building or handled without the required PPE for a biological safety level one laboratory. Additionally, we utilize proper channels to address our waste with dedicated biological waste bins and using an autoclave to sterilize appropriate materials for reuse. Our team members are trained to handle potentially hazardous materials, like ethidium bromide used in gel electrophoresis protocols, with care and precision. Ultimately, we emphasize a culture of open communication within our team to promptly address any safety concerns or incidents. Safety is a core value for the Missouri Miner team, and we remain committed to creating a secure and responsible laboratory environment.
A lot of stigma surrounds synthetic biology, especially with CRISPR. Genetically modified organisms have become an ethical debate and some people can not see the benefits of genetic engineering. Our project utilizes CRISPR technology in order to provide a more accessible method for cancer detection. The device that is planned to be sold in pharmacies across the world poses no real threat with human usage and can be used safely. The components do not come into contact with the human body and have very specific operating conditions, preventing any health hazards. The device allows people to take their health into their own hands and foster a better understanding of synthetic biology. Using synthetic biology safely is the best way to get more people involved in the community and begin seeing local problems in a new light. While our device does not involve DNA editing, which is the more well-known type of CRISPR system, it is a good introduction into the world of genetic engineering to demonstrate its potential.