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.

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.

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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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Blog & Digest

iGEM Digest Issue 5: Letter From The Guest Editor By Chris Isaac "It was through attending the Biological Weapons Convention as an iGEM Delegate that I realized how neglected biosecurity issues were and fully embraced the duty that scientists have to engage with policy-makers." Read more

Designing Scientifically Valid Surveys By Matthew Sample and JC Gray Although surveys may seem simple and straightforward, they are often challenging to execute well. Surveys are a form of experiment, and like any experiment, they can be designed and implemented poorly. Read more

Celebrating Another First: the iGEM 2020 Global Meet-up By iGEM HQ The iGEM 2020 Global Meet-up celebrated the diversity and international spirit of our community, with more than half of the events and activities organized by the iGEM teams themselves. Read more

How to Avoid Plagiarism in Your Work By Naina Goel and Peter Carr At iGEM, it is important to give credit where credit is due. Indeed, integrity, honesty and respect are among the iGEM values that all teams are expected to uphold. 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...

iGEM 2020 Thinking of joining the iGEM Competition this year? Come join in the fun! Visit the 2020 Competition website for information. iGEM 2020

iGEM Video Universe (Beta) Upload, watch videos, subscribe, comment and like iGEM Videos! We will use the iGEM Video Universe (Beta) during the Virtual Giant Jamboree for hosting Project Promotion Videos and Presentation Videos. VIDEOS (BETA)

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. REGISTRY OF PARTS