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The iGEM Competition

Science
Engineering
Computer Science

iGEM Foundation

MultipleAnnual competition

The iGEM Competition is an international synthetic biology competition where student teams design and build original biological systems using standardized genetic parts to address real-world challenges in health, sustainability, and environmental science. Teams spend the year conducting hands-on laboratory research and developing innovative projects before presenting their work at regional jamborees and the annual Grand Jamboree. It is one of the most rigorous and prestigious science competitions available to high school students, offering a rare opportunity to engage in authentic, cutting-edge research alongside teams from institutions worldwide.

Visit igem.org

Skills You'll Build

Scientific Research

Designing studies, testing hypotheses, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Problem Solving

Breaking down a challenge and working through it methodically to a solution.

Team Leadership

Guiding a group toward a shared goal and keeping everyone moving together.

Project Management

Planning tasks, timelines, and resources to get a project done on schedule.

Lab Techniques

Running experiments safely and accurately using real scientific equipment and procedures.

Programming

Writing code to build software, automate tasks, or bring an idea to life on a screen.

Related Careers

Biomedical Engineer

iGEM focuses on synthetic biology and genetic engineering projects, core to biomedical engineering innovation.

Chemical Engineer

Teams design and execute biological and chemical processes at the molecular level through hands-on lab work.

Biologist

Direct application of genetic research, experimentation, and biological problem-solving in a competitive setting.

Software Engineer

Many iGEM projects require computational modeling, data analysis, and custom software development.

Medical Researcher

iGEM emphasizes original research design, lab execution, and presentation of novel biological findings.

Quick Facts

Format
In-Person
Best For
Science & engineering enthusiasts

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