Hubei Open Conference on Synthetic Biology
We were glad to be able to participate in the Hubei Open Conference on Synthetic Biology, which was organized by HUBU-China. This platform allowed iGEMers to share their team projects and learn from each other.
We engaged in fruitful discussions with students from Jiangnan University about the concentration and time variables of IPTG induction. In addition, we encountered some queries regarding the design of sgRNA screening in the dry lab, which prompted us to focus more on the combination of model with wet lab in the future.
Exchanging ideas with different teams was an enriching experience. It provided us with a platform to connect with each other on a deeper level.
Education Trip
HUBU-China initiated an Education Alliance to promote and propagate synthetic biology, life sciences, and STEM education in China with an academic focus. We were inspired by this idea, which aligns with our educational slogan: WHU-China——Work Hard for Unlimited potential of synthetic biology! We joined this meaningful organization and developed our educational roadmap with HUBU-China, Jiangnan-China, and Tsinghua-TFL.
Additionally, we collaborated with Nanjing-China to visit Nanning No.3 High School and with LZU-China to visit Lanzhou No.1 High School. You can find more details on Communication & Education.
Synbio Hourstory
SynBio Hourstory is a synthetic biology history popular science activity jointly initiated by eight iGEM teams. It aims to use comics as a simple and beautiful way to popularize the major events of synthetic biology development to the public. You can find more details on Communication & Education.
CRISPR-Brochure
CRISPR Technology is a powerful tool for advancing life sciences. Tongji-Software invited 3 teams who employed CRISPR in their projects to discuss the pros and cons of various CRISPR branches. We collaborated to produce a CRISPR brochure, which introduces CRISPR technology to the public in a simple and engaging way. The brochure shows how CRISPR technology outperforms other gene editing technologies, highlights the potential applications of CRISPR in different fields, and raises public awareness of CRISPR technology. You can find more details on Communication & Education.
Synbio Podcast
On August 2nd, we had an online communication with HKUST-iGEM, where we shared projects and found a common theme - biosensors.
On August 7th, we visited Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. The two teams shared some experimental experiences with each other. We were impressed by the biological research level and innovation ability of HKUST, and we also appreciated their international vision and cutting-edge thinking.
Moreover, we agreed on a plan to hold a podcast series of education. The podcast series would be one of our education programs to arouse public interest, especially young people who are interested in science.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
We aimed to use CRISPReporter to diagnose IBD. To make a difference in this field, we collaborated with NWU-China, another iGEM team tackling IBD. We shared our project updates and brainstormed ideas together. We care about IBD patients and their loved ones. We spread the IBD brochure designed by NWU-China in our school to call on people to care about IBD patients. We were also impressed by the fundraising events that NWU held, which motivated people to support IBD patients. Their work was inspiring and meaningful to IBD patients and us.
