Fostering Collaboration and Innovation: A Joint Meeting Between NTHU and NYCU-Formosa iGEM Teams
On July 21st, our team had the opportunity to collaborate with the NYCU-Formosa iGEM team at the NTHU Library. This in-person interaction allowed members from different groups, including Wet Lab (WL), Dry Lab (DL), and Human Practices (HP), to engage in an in-depth exchange of ideas and share their unique perspectives on various aspects of synthetic biology. The session aimed to strengthen inter-team communication and explore potential avenues for collaboration.
During the meeting, the Wet Lab (WL) members initiated the discussion by presenting an overview of their experimental progress. They detailed their current challenges in optimizing genetic constructs and shared some innovative troubleshooting techniques they were using to enhance the expression levels of key biomolecules. NYCU-Formosa’s WL team responded by sharing their experience with similar experiments, focusing on different gene circuits and control mechanisms. This conversation led to a stimulating exchange of ideas on potential methods to increase system efficiency and stability. Despite being a face-to-face session, the teams made extensive use of visual aids such as diagrams and flowcharts to better illustrate their experimental setups, bridging the gap between theory and practical application.
The Dry Lab (DL) groups then took center stage, introducing their respective modeling strategies. Our team showcased the machine learning models we had developed to predict biological outcomes based on various environmental factors. In contrast, NYCU-Formosa’s DL team focused on a structural biology approach, using computational tools to predict protein-ligand interactions. By comparing the strengths and limitations of these distinct methodologies, both teams identified areas where collaborative modeling could be beneficial, such as integrating machine learning predictions with structural simulations to achieve a more holistic view of system behavior.
Human Practices (HP) members from both teams concluded the session by discussing the societal impact and ethical considerations of their projects. The main focus was on how to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to the public and engage with stakeholders in a meaningful way. This led to the co-development of a set of educational outreach activities, including workshops and community engagement events, aimed at raising awareness about the potential of synthetic biology. Both teams also brainstormed ideas for creating content that could highlight the social relevance of their work, such as short animations and interactive quizzes tailored for non-specialist audiences.
The day was not limited to structured discussions. Informal social interactions played a vital role in building rapport between the teams. Members participated in a series of team-building games and shared personal experiences from their journey in iGEM, fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie. By the end of the day, the session had not only deepened our technical understanding but also paved the way for a closer, long-term partnership between the two teams.
2024 Taiwan International Genetically Engineered Machine Seminar （TGEM）
The 2024 Taiwan International Genetically Engineered Machine Seminar (TGEM), organized by Linkou Kang Chiao International School, brought together iGEM teams from across Taiwan to share insights and ideas. This was a valuable opportunity for us to present our project, Super-Smart Bandage, and engage in meaningful discussions about synthetic biology. Over two days, we showcased our project, set up our team booth, and presented our work to a diverse audience of fellow iGEM participants and experts in the field.
Building Connections: Collaborative Exchanges at the Team Booth
Our time at the team booth proved invaluable for connecting with members from other teams. This informal setting allowed us to freely exchange ideas, ask questions, and engage in deeper conversations about the specifics of each team’s project. It was a rare opportunity to ask detailed questions about different areas of expertise, learning firsthand about the diverse approaches and techniques used within synthetic biology. This open exchange also helped us connect with like-minded individuals and build valuable connections with peers from various backgrounds and with a range of strengths.
Learning Through Observation: Insights Gained from Presentations
During the presentation session, we had the chance to observe other teams’ presentations and learn from their approaches. We listened carefully to how they communicated their research, analyzing their presentation style, pacing, and the use of visuals. This provided valuable insights into how to present complex information in a clear, engaging, and memorable way, capturing audience attention and prompting further interest. These presentations provided a wealth of information about the best practices for delivering effective presentations, which we will certainly apply to our future presentations.
Expert Guidance: Tackling Challenges with Professional Support
We also had the privilege of engaging in discussions with experts and professionals in the meeting rooms. These sessions allowed us to delve deeper into the challenges we faced, seeking guidance and insights from individuals with extensive experience in the field. These experts helped us refine our questions, encouraging us to analyze and dissect the issues we were encountering. Beyond knowledge, they also offered invaluable resources, sharing information about the equipment, facilities, and expertise available within their companies.
Outside of the structured discussions, we participated in informal meetups where we continued to exchange ideas about the future of synthetic biology. Whether during lunch breaks or team-building activities, these social interactions fostered a sense of camaraderie and collaboration that extended beyond the technical aspects of our projects.
TGEM provided us with a comprehensive learning experience that encompassed technical knowledge, leadership insights, and opportunities to network with like-minded individuals as well as seasoned experts in synthetic biology. We returned from the event not only better informed but also more inspired to push the boundaries of synthetic biology and further develop Super-Smart Bandage into a project capable of making a meaningful impact in healthcare.
TGEM serves as a reminder that the true power of synthetic biology lies not only in scientific breakthroughs but also in the collaboration and shared passion of a community dedicated to transforming the world through innovation.
Engaging Science on Instagram and Facebook
We built this community to make science more accessible and engaging. We believe that complex scientific concepts can be made more understandable through relatable stories and interactive content. Our mission is to inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovation, especially among younger readers, by introducing synthetic biology in a fun and engaging way. By sharing the development of the “Super-Smart Bandage,” we aim to show how science can address real-world challenges like wound infections. We hope to make science a part of everyday life, encouraging more people to explore the fun of synthetic biology. Together, we can plant the seeds of science that will blossom into world-changing innovations.
A Six-Theme Journey for Curious Minds
We created this community to engage young science enthusiasts by showcasing the wonders and practical applications of synthetic biology through six carefully designed thematic units.
Theme 1: Team Introduction
We introduced our team through three posts highlighting members’ roles, research, and personal hobbies. Fun anecdotes and a poll to vote for favorite members helped engage the community.
Theme 2: Project Overview
Six posts explained the “Super-Smart Bandage” project, covering its background, goals, and technology with multimedia support, including an interactive map for exploring its applications.
Theme 3: Simplifying Complex Tech
Six posts broke down key synthetic biology technologies like aptamers and hydrogels using simple language, illustrations, and animations to make complex concepts accessible to everyone.
Theme 4: Team Journey
We shared our research journey, including team challenges and successes through six posts, using interviews, diaries, and videos to offer an authentic glimpse into our experiences.
Theme 5: Community Engagement
Six posts featured Q&A sessions, quizzes, and polls to engage followers, along with collaborations, lab anecdotes, and discussions on wound care and healthcare issues.
By thoughtfully presenting six thematic units, we’ve built a vibrant community that makes synthetic biology accessible and engaging. Blending scientific rigor with creativity, our content encourages active participation, sparking curiosity about our “Super-Smart Bandage” project. This interactive platform has transformed science into an exciting journey, where users ask questions, share ideas, and find inspiration for future innovations.