iGEM Project, Manipal BioMachines, Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal, India
Head of Human Practices, iGEM Team MIT_MAHE
The International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition is a globally recognized synthetic biology competition where multidisciplinary student teams design, build, and present innovative biological systems to solve real-world problems. It is hosted annually in Paris, aiming to emphasize scientific innovation, human practices, safety, and public engagement.
In the year 2022, I participated in the iGEM Competition as a part of Team MIT_MAHE with 15 other project members. The project is based on a novel approach and a sustainable solution to tackle Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which is one of the most prevalent bacteria involved in spreading the Vibriosis disease in fish by designing an antimicrobial peptide as an alternative to antibiotics. We secured the gold medal with five special award nominations – Best Food & Nutrition Project, Best Software Tool, Best Wiki, Best Education, and Best Presentation in the iGEM Giant Jamboree Competition 2022.
I worked as the Head of Human Practices for the team from June 2022 to May 2023, where I supervised integrated human practices by hosting webinars, meetings, field visits, and interactions with 14 different stakeholders associated with the project, and carried out research & documentation for the project wiki page. Additionally, I conducted collaborations, public relations, community outreach/engagement, and partnership initiatives with five other iGEM teams, and participated in the project presentation of the iGEM Giant Jamboree held in Paris, France as a part of iGEM Team MIT_MAHE.
