In an effort to broaden participation in the field of synthetic biology, innovative educational tools and outreach activities have been implemented to engage diverse communities. Our approach began with a summer, theme-based biology lab that offered three credit hours for participants. This hands-on lab experience allowed students to immerse themselves in synthetic biology projects, working collaboratively within various teams. Through these collaborative efforts, students learned the importance of teamwork in scientific research, developing skills that are essential in any lab environment.

A key component of the lab involved students presenting articles related to existing synthetic biology projects. This exercise not only enhanced their understanding of the current landscape of synthetic biology but also equipped them with critical skills in data interpretation and presentation. By engaging in this scholarly activity, students gained insights into how to effectively communicate scientific findings, a vital skill in any lab setting.

Additionally, students who joined the program in August were given the opportunity to enroll in independent research or thesis classes. This allowed them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world projects, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in their work. Under the guidance of our professors, students received support that helped them navigate the complexities of their projects.This mentorship model played a crucial role in building a community and a collective sense of purpose among the participants.

We also ramped up our outreach efforts by recruiting students during involvement fairs and general body meetings. At these events, we provided detailed overviews of our synthetic biology program, along with training sessions to prepare newcomers for laboratory work. By engaging with students outside of the classroom, we attracted a diverse group of participants who may not have otherwise considered a career in synthetic biology.

These initiatives taken to develop.