Protocol Assist App
While running experiments in the lab, we quickly realized the importance of having protocols that are not only easily accessible but also well-organized to streamline our workflow. Many existing options, such as Benchling, offer robust features but come with their own set of limitations. For instance, we found the learning curve for some platforms to be steep, especially for newer members of the lab, and integrating with other systems we use posed a challenge. These hurdles sometimes made it difficult to maintain efficiency and focus on the experiments themselves.
Recognizing these challenges, we decided to take matters into our own hands and develop a solution tailored to our specific needs. We wanted something simple yet effective, a tool that would allow us to stay organized without the complexity or integration issues of larger platforms. That’s why we created an app called LabAssist—a streamlined, user-friendly solution designed to help our team keep protocols at their fingertips and maintain clarity throughout our research processes. The app also has a framework that allows users to add their own protocols via a file system. You can find an alpha version here: https://labassit.vercel.app/
Microcentrifuge and Thermocycler designs
Before finding a suitable lab in Oakland, we were constrained by our high school lab's limited equipment. While the lab provided a solid foundation with ample glassware, it lacked specialized tools. We quickly encountered this limitation during our team-led training sessions, where we realized that access to equipment can be a significant barrier for scientists worldwide. Inspired by this challenge, we decided to explore ways to address it.
To try and overcome this, our team began to design cost effective lab hardware and made it available for aspiring lab scientists to use. This hardware makes designing a basic home laboratory a far less expensive endeavor and increases the accessibility of Synthetic Biology.
The two main pieces of equipment we chose to design were a thermocycler (for PCR) and a microcentrifuge. After making said designs we made sure to document and make them publicly available to maximize accessibility. More info on the hardware is available here.
(Microcentrifuge)
(Thermocycler)
Synthetic Biology Slides
To help eighth graders with minimal biology knowledge transition smoothly into the world of iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine) over the summer, Ansh Thakkar, Nick Hernandez, and Yuvraj Singh carefully crafted a comprehensive curriculum. This semester-long course was designed not only to bridge the gap in foundational biological concepts but also to introduce students to the exciting field of synthetic biology. The material, composed of both publicly available resources and original content, was tailored to educate and engage rising high school freshmen. The slides and supporting content provide a structured introduction to the core principles of synthetic biology, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to iGEM projects and laying the groundwork for more advanced study in the future. Topics include chemical bonds, macromolecules, cell structure, the central dogma, gene regulation, signal transduction, the cell cycle, PCR, DNA and genetics, and DNA sequencing. We believe these lectures will serve as a valuable starting point for future iGEM teams. Future iGEM Teams can use these slides to help expand their team and educate new members to be able to work in the lab.