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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.
Learn more →
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
Join us at the iGEM 2020 Virtual Giant Jamboree!
August 3, 2020
iGEM 2020 Virtual Giant Jamboree
November 14-22, 2020
We are excited to announce the dates for the iGEM 2020 Virtual Giant Jamboree! Even though we can’t come together at one big in-person event this year, the virtual format brings some exciting opportunities to celebrate iGEM at a scale never before experienced.
Nine -- yes 9! -- full days to gather for Competition, Community, Contribution, and Celebration.
More news
- July Sponsor Newsletter
July 29, 2020 - igem.org Websites
July 27, 2020 - July Newsletter
July 8, 2020 - June Sponsor Newsletter
June 24, 2020 - FREE MathWorks software for iGEM 2020 teams
June 11, 2020 - Black Lives Matter
June 10, 2020 - June Newsletter
June 9, 2020 - The first ever iGEM Opening Weekend Festival is now over
May 18, 2020 - Free SnapGene and Geneious licenses for teams
May 11, 2020 - Call for Applications for the New Judging Committee
April 30, 2020 - Team Grant Opportunity for up to 6 teams from GenScript
April 29, 2020
Blog & Digest
An introspection from Benchling: Why we support iGEM and continue to do so
By Johnny Truong
“At Benchling, our mission is to fundamentally transform how biology research is done. We accomplish this through developing software that eliminates busywork and enhances collaboration for all scientists, including iGEM teams.” Read more
My iGEM Journey
By Alba Iglesias Vilches
“Good teammates make you learn and grow. We had gone from being a team to being a family. Deadlines were approaching. Summer passed. Classes began at the university, and we worked to make our course loads as compatible as we could with the final experiments we needed for our iGEM project.” Read more
How To Build an Inclusive iGEM Project
By Anne S. Meyer
"In designing your iGEM project, we encourage you to consider: Who is included in your project design? Who benefits from your research? Will anyone be disadvantaged?" Read more
How to Find Insights from Social Science Research Related to Your Project
By Joy Zhang
“What is required of us in the social sciences, as in natural sciences, is to not just take someone’s word but instead analyze and evaluate the data that is presented so as to form our own judgement. This is the essence of critical thinking.” 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...
RE-LIVE 2019
The 2019 Competition Season is now over. Congratulations to all participants! Click below to browse team projects, results, photos, and videos from 2019.
iGEM 2020
Thinking of joining the iGEM Competition this year? Come join in the fun! Visit the 2020 Competition website for information.
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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