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International Genetically Engineered Machine
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Build a better world with iGEM
The iGEM Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of synthetic biology, education and competition, and the development of an open community and collaboration. This is done by fostering an open, cooperative community and friendly competition.
iGEM’s main program is the iGEM Competition. The iGEM Competition gives students the opportunity to push the boundaries of synthetic biology by tackling everyday issues facing the world. About iGEM →
Our Impact on the World
Building Solutions to
Local and Global Challenges
By working together, students can do amazing things. Learn how iGEMers around the globe are addressing regional and global challenges both inside and outside the lab.
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Champions of
Synthetic Biology
With 40,000+ members, iGEM's international network of academics and industry professionals are building a better world. Learn about our vibrant community of champions.
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Companies with
Roots in iGEM
iGEM is the largest synthetic biology innovation program and a launchpad for the industry's most successful leaders and companies. IGEM projects serve as proofs of concepts and prototypes, contributing to over 150 startups.
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Setting the Standard
in Synthetic Biology
iGEM programs are supported by a panel of industry experts that guide iGEM and set the industry standard for how synthetic biology is performed. Learn more about iGEM Committees and their work in setting the industry standards.
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News & Announcements
Introducing the iGEM Video Universe
September 24, 2020
We are happy to announce the launch of our new video platform: iGEM Video Universe. Created by the Video & Remote Technology Committee, this platform is accessible from everywhere in the world, open to everyone to create an account, and free of ads. In this way - all iGEMers in our community can use it to easily upload and watch videos.
We will be using this platform during the Virtual Giant Jamboree for hosting team Project Promotion Videos and Presentation Videos.
For instructions on how to sign up or upload to the iGEM Video Universe, click here!
More news
- SynBioBeta Student Discount
September 18, 2020 - iGEM 2018 InterLab Measurement Study Results Published
September 17, 2020 - New Data Science Opportunity: Genetic Engineering Attribution Challenge
September 14, 2020 - September Newsletter - New Data Science Opportunity, SDGs resources and more...
September 9, 2020 - August Sponsor Newsletter
August 26, 2020 - Twist Bioscience is offering teams FREE DNA for a second year!
August 17, 2020 - August Newsletter - Check out the iGEM 2020 Team Map!
August 12, 2020 - Apply to be an iGEM Judge!
August 5, 2020 - Join us at the iGEM 2020 Virtual Giant Jamboree!
August 3, 2020
Blog & Digest
iGEM Digest Issue 5: Letter From The Guest Editor
By Chris Isaac
"It was through attending the Biological Weapons Convention as an iGEM Delegate that I realized how neglected biosecurity issues were and fully embraced the duty that scientists have to engage with policy-makers." Read more
Designing Scientifically Valid Surveys
By Matthew Sample and JC Gray
Although surveys may seem simple and straightforward, they are often challenging to execute well. Surveys are a form of experiment, and like any experiment, they can be designed and implemented poorly. Read more
Celebrating Another First: the iGEM 2020 Global Meet-up
By iGEM HQ
The iGEM 2020 Global Meet-up celebrated the diversity and international spirit of our community, with more than half of the events and activities organized by the iGEM teams themselves. Read more
How to Avoid Plagiarism in Your Work
By Naina Goel and Peter Carr
At iGEM, it is important to give credit where credit is due. Indeed, integrity, honesty and respect are among the iGEM values that all teams are expected to uphold. Read more
Black Lives Matter
If you have something you want to discuss with iGEM HQ relating to racism, diversity, or inclusion in iGEM, or you have an idea that you would like us to explore, we welcome you to please submit your thoughts through this anonymous feedback form.
Explore our other websites...
iGEM 2020
Thinking of joining the iGEM Competition this year? Come join in the fun! Visit the 2020 Competition website for information.
iGEM Video Universe (Beta)
Upload, watch videos, subscribe, comment and like iGEM Videos! We will use the iGEM Video Universe (Beta) during the Virtual Giant Jamboree for hosting Project Promotion Videos and Presentation Videos.
Registry of Parts
The iGEM Registry of Standard Biological Parts is a growing collection of genetic parts that can be mixed and matched to build synthetic biology devices and systems.
The iGEM Network
The iGEM Network was built to help iGEMers take what you learned in the competition and expand that to continue to build a better world. Click below to Join the iGEM Network.
iGEM Foundation
The International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of synthetic biology, education and competition, and the development of an open community and collaboration.
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