In the ever-evolving landscape of scientific research, two extraordinary initiatives have emerged to push the boundaries of knowledge and inspire a new generation of scientists and researchers. The iGEM competition and The Transcriptome, a pioneering website for scientific articles, have joined forces to create a powerful synergy that fosters collaboration, disseminates groundbreaking discoveries, and empowers scientific communities worldwide.
iGEM: Pioneering Synthetic Biology on a Global Stage
At the core of innovation lies the iGEM competition, an international platform that has transformed the realm of synthetic biology. Uniting aspiring scientists from universities and research institutions worldwide, iGEM harnesses the potential of genetic engineering to address real-world challenges. For months on end, teams composed of talented students dedicate themselves to crafting innovative solutions that have tangible impact.
These iGEM teams work tirelessly, conducting rigorous research, designing genetic circuits, and engineering living systems with precision. Their projects encompass a diverse array of fields, including healthcare, agriculture, energy, and the environment. From developing groundbreaking diagnostics for diseases to designing sustainable solutions for food production, iGEM teams embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of academia, actively engaging with real-world issues.
What sets iGEM apart is its collaborative ethos. Teams exchange ideas, share protocols, and foster a sense of camaraderie in the pursuit of scientific excellence. They seek to make their projects open-source, promoting accessibility and encouraging other researchers to build upon their work. By embracing openness, iGEM teams actively contribute to the collective knowledge of the scientific community.
Unlocking Scientific Discoveries for All through The Transcriptome
In harmony with the pioneering spirit of the iGEM competition, The Transcriptome stands as a digital gateway, illuminating the wonders of scientific understanding. Our mission is to share and exchange scientific information, explore technological advancements, unravel controversial topics, and inspire fascination with life sciences. Above all, we strive to make science inclusive and accessible, regardless of your background. We firmly believe that connecting science with society can have a positive impact on the world of tomorrow.
The Transcriptome, curates a diverse array of articles that showcase the latest scientific discoveries and technological breakthroughs. From biology to chemistry, physics, and beyond, we keep you updated on the forefront of research. By staying informed, you can engage with cutting-edge knowledge and join the conversation on the latest developments.
We fearlessly tackle controversial topics that intertwine science with ethics and societal values. Our aim is to demystify complex debates and present balanced perspectives. Backed by scientific evidence and expert opinions, we strive to help you form informed opinions and engage in thoughtful discussions.
We firmly believe that science and society are deeply interconnected. By forging strong links between these two realms, The Transcriptome aims to foster positive change and shape a brighter future. We recognize the transformative potential of scientific knowledge and strive to communicate its implications to a broader audience. Our goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions, advocate for evidence-based policies, and contribute to the advancement of science for the benefit of all.
The iGEM UNIL team 2023 wants to address the problem of microplastics pollution. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are less than 5mm in size. They come from a variety of sources, including plastic bags, bottles, and packaging, and can be found in many everyday items such as cosmetics, clothing, and even our food. Nowadays, microplastics are contaminating our oceans, rivers, and lakes, harming aquatic life and the environment in general. It can be ingested by fishes and other water organisms, which can lead to their death. Through the food chain, microplastics also end up in humans and might potentially pose a risk to human health. In Switzerland, every year, 1 million tonnes of plastic are consumed, and, of these, 780’000 tonnes of plastic become waste. Of all this waste, 14’000 tonnes ends up in soil and water.
The convergence of the iGEM teams and The Transcriptome creates a powerful alliance, driving scientific exploration and facilitating global collaboration. As The Transcriptome opens the doors to inclusive scientific communication, we become a vital channel for sharing and exchanging knowledge. Our commitment is to make science understandable and engaging for everyone. By unraveling complex topics, breaking down language barriers, and emphasizing the link between science and society, The Transcriptome paves the way for a future where scientific advancements are appreciated and utilized to shape a better world.
- https://bsse.ethz.ch/bpl/education/igem.html
- https://igem.org/
- https://echa.europa.eu/hot-topics/microplastics#:~:text=These%20small%20pieces%20(typically%20smaller,may%20also%20contain%20residual%20impurities.
- https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/microplastics.html
- https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-do-Microplastics-Affect-Our-Health.aspx#:~:text=Marine%20Microplastics&text=These%20microplastics%20pose%20a%20physical,a%20threat%20to%20humans%20too.
- https://www.bafu.admin.ch/bafu/en/home/topics/waste/info-specialists/waste-policy-and-measures/plastics-in-the-environment.html
