iGEM - International competition for synthetic biology

In the past, our students have worked on a blood test to detect multiple sclerosis, genetically modified bacteria designed to prevent frost damage in fruit crops, and a biofilter to remove ammonia and methane from livestock farms.

Although these projects do not always result in a new product entering the market, iGEM provides students with an immensely valuable learning experience. Students are fully responsible for their project. The team chooses the societal challenge it wants to address, develops a research plan and carries out the project. They so however receive support and guidance from experienced Wageningen researchers where needed. This independence makes iGEM a unique learning experience in which students not only deepen their scientific knowledge, but also develop skills in project management, entrepreneurship, communication and collaboration.

iGEM is about much more than experiments alone. The competition encourages students to consider the societal impact of their idea from the start. That is why iGEM teams do not work exclusively in the laboratory. They engage with patients, farmers, businesses, policymakers and other stakeholders to ensure their solution is better aligned with real-world needs. They also explore the economic viability of their concept and learn how to fund and present a project.

Wageningen has been participating in iGEM for more than fifteen years, making it one of the competition’s most experienced universities. Unlike at some other universities, iGEM is part of the education programme at Wageningen: students receive academic credits for their participation. This allows students to devote themselves intensively to their project over an extended period and gives them the opportunity to further develop both their scientific and professional skills. Wageningen iGEM alumni have gone on to pursue PhDs, launch start-ups and work at research institutes and innovative companies.

Are you a student at Wageningen University & Research and interested in iGEM? Then it is a good idea to start exploring the opportunity early. The iGEM year generally runs from January to October, and interested students are advised to get in touch before December of the preceding year. Every year, we organise an information session in December for students who may be interested in joining a future team.

Contact Nico Claassens or Stefan Hoffmann below if you have a question.

iGEM projects give students the opportunity to develop innovative ideas around pressing societal challenges. Companies, civil society organisations and other partners can contribute by providing expertise, materials, facilities or financial support.

As iGEM is a student competition, projects are generally at an early stage of development. The focus is on research, innovation and learning. Projects are therefore not immediately available as ready-to-use solutions or commercial products. Interested in partnering with us or sponsoring a team? Please contact the supervisory team.