During our iGEM collaboration tour, we actively engaged in collaborative activities with many teams and participated in numerous academic conferences that worked diligently to push our project. This provided us with insights into the various problem-solving approaches employed by researchers and different teams. We also met a captivating group of iGEMers. Overall, it was a wonderful experience.
We mentored the Nanjing-BioXstem high school team. We devised a comprehensive plan encompassing online education courseļ¼guidance of molecular biology experiments and human practice (HP) activity. In May and June of this year, our team explained the basics of synthetic biology to iGEMers at Nanjing-BioXstem, as well as the use of SnapGene and GraphPad bio software. We also provided them with the necessary plasmids, laboratory resources, and comprehensive guidance on molecular biology experiments. Additionally, we utilized flow cytometry and assisted in the interpretation of data analysis. In addition, members of the Nanjing-BioXstem accompanied us to the Primary School Attached to Nanjing Shuren Affiliated Primary School to conduct activities.
Figure 1 Venue setting
Figure 2 Communication with Nanjing-BioXstem
Figure 3 Guidance on experiment
Figure 4 Guidance on data analysis
On the morning of August 5th, NJTech-China-B and NJTech-China-A convened for an in-person exchange meeting. During this session, we engaged in a lively discussion about experimental design and practical activities. We both shared clips of the Project Promotion Video and expressed our opinions on the presentation style. The diverse approaches to video presentation sparked new ideas within us. We presented our activities and future plans, while also offering our suggestions. In the experimental part, we attentively listened to each other's experimental designs and progress reports. We then exchanged ideas about enhancing the mutation method for enzymes and refining protein purification techniques. Through this exchange of ideas, we collectively improved the experimental programs. We gained a lot of valuable advice from one another throughout the process, and we are eager to capitalize on this opportunity for mutual growth and development.
Figure 5: Discussion process
On August 5th, we held an online networking meeting with the NNU-CHINA team. During the meeting, both teams presented their respective projects, posed questions, and engaged in discussions and exchanges. The NNU-CHINA exchange meeting provided an opportunity not only to learn about each other's experimental content but also to discuss wiki writing, PV production, and other related topics. Moreover, we are enthusiastic about the potential for ongoing cooperation with the NNU-CHINA team.
Figure 6: Screenshot of communication meeting
On May 27th, 2023, our members visited Nanjing University Xianlin Campus to participate in Nanjing iGEM association. During the meeting, our presentation was divided into three parts: inspiration, experimental design and experimental progress, and HP. This allowed us to present our team's project details for the first time and engage in discussions with the Nanjing iGEM association. This meeting proved to be highly advantageous for the team members, as it facilitated knowledge sharing and established a platform for potential future collaborations.
Figure 7 Team project presentation Figure 8 Group photo of team members
From July 7th to 10th, 2023, the NJTech-China-B team participated in the 10th Conference of the China iGEMer Community (CCiC). In the CCiC, we gathered with participating teams from across China to showcase our team's project, receive expert guidance and suggestions, and engage in cross-team interactions. Through this exchange, we not only gained different insights and novel topics from various perspectives, but more crucially, the collision of ideas during this trip ignited fresh ways of thinking and provided us with an enhanced understanding of our own project.
Figure 9 CCiC Certificate of Participation
Environmental Protection and Sustainability Summit
On July 18th, 2023, Nanjing Normal University hosted the Environmental Protection and Sustainability Summit (EPSS). We actively participated in the event and shared our team's ideas on inspiration, experimental design, and the environmental impact of our project. We also learned about the innovative solutions and HP from other participating teams of the iGEM through presentations. This summit facilitated meaningful exchanges and collaborations among different teams and experts, unveiling cutting-edge technologies and potential cooperation opportunities in the field of environmental protection. Through this event, we recognized that cutting-edge environmental solutions require interdisciplinary and cross-border collaboration. Witnessing many teams applying innovative technologies to address environmental challenges has ignited our motivation to further explore diverse solutions. During the HP segment, we grasped how participating teams join forces with communities, governmental agencies and industries to jointly promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Participating in this summit not only enabled us to connect with like-minded partners, but also broadened our awareness of the vast potential and significance of the field of environmental protection. We will continue to work hard and actively explore innovative solutions to make a significant contribution to environmental protection.
Figure 10 Screenshot of the online exchange meeting
The 15th Training Course of Coating Formulation Design and The 10th Training Course of Waterborne Technology
From July 3rd to 7th, our team participated in the 15th Training Course of Coating Formulation Design and the 10th Training Course of Waterborne Technology, in which we obtained extensive knowledge about coatings. At the same time, our comprehensive study of coatings expanded our understanding of the coating industry.
Figure 11 Group photo of team members
The 7th National Annual Conference of Chemical Engineering and Biochemical Engineering
From July 28th to 30th, our team participated in the National Chemical Engineering and Biochemical Annual Conference. In this conference, experts in attendance highlighted the significance of advancing the integrated development of chemical industry and biotechnology, particularly in the context of today's low-carbon transformation. They emphasized the promising potential and bright future of the green chemical industry and biomanufacturing. We are very grateful to experienced experts whose advice has allowed us to optimize and improve our project.
Figure 12 Group leader to participate in the annual meeting
Communication and collaboration not only gave us fresh ideas and inspiration, but also made us understand the importance of teamwork. As the saying goes, "People together, Taishan moves". We extend our hope to all teams within the iGem family, advocating for sustained teamwork that leads to enduring success and mutual benefits.