Behind the scenes at iGEM: What I learned in my first year as a judge
by Dr. Tim Tapscott, product development scientist at Integrated DNA Technologies
iGEM is many things—an experience, an adventure, and a community. As the premier international synthetic biology competition, iGEM is growing and developing the next generation of inquiring minds to lead our industries to the next big discovery.
Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) has served as a sponsor and offered all registered iGEM teams up to 20 kb of gene fragments for the last eight years.
While 2020 marked my first time as an iGEM judge, Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) has had the pleasure of serving as a sponsor and offering all registered iGEM teams up to 20 kb of gene fragments for the last eight years. Seeing iGEM projects come together is always a thrilling highlight for everyone at IDT.
As with many events scheduled in 2020, the iGEM Giant Jamboree went virtual. Upon logging into the Virtual Jamboree, I was pleased to see the spirit of collaboration, diversity, and inclusion come to life. The energy and enthusiasm of each team was contagious. Within hours, it was obvious that the teams that would emerge as leaders were those who embraced this interdisciplinary, supportive philosophy, allowing each member to contribute different perspectives and unique skill sets. The shared approach enhanced the team experience and improved the overall quality of the presentation, especially as many projects adapted to 2020’s uncertainty and travel restrictions.
With the competition in full swing, I judged a number of teams. I could quickly tell the difference between the teams that kept their projects streamlined and achievable versus those who attempted to build something too large and complex. In most cases, custom, complicated projects with advanced constructs are often too much of an undertaking within the given time constraints. The teams that set themselves apart were those that kept in mind the timetables needed for manufacturing, remained focused to meet tight deadlines, had strong data, and had an iron-clad case for their hypothesis.
When I initially signed up as a judge, I was able to specify categories in which I had a personal or professional interest. In interacting with the teams, I noticed teams that had a broad understanding of their project and how their project fit into the space performed well. I also appreciated how the winning teams handled difficult questions. Those who acknowledged the question, provided an informed explanation, addressed the project’s shortcomings, and outlined possible next steps would go on to succeed.
Through the judging process, our judges evaluate, celebrate, and help guide the next generation of synthetic biologists. Applications to be a judge at the 2021 Giant Jamboree are now open!
It was this honesty and humility that made the victorious teams more relatable. As a judge, but most importantly as a fellow scientist, we understand the need to accept and explain scientific failures. It is not uncommon in our field to fall short of meeting your own initial expectations or goals. Those who were able to rise above these challenges to explain the utility of their project—how the project outcome would be helpful to their peers, the field, and society—soon took their place at the top of the competition.
If anything, iGEM is an introduction to the scrutiny—and value—of peer-reviewed science. Experiencing this firsthand gives participants applicable practice on what to expect when they later try to get published or launch a career as a scientist.
After many hours of judging, the winning teams were those who not only met all of the requirements, but who also had a clear passion for their subject matter. It was evident that they cared about their projects and their involvement with iGEM. This collective passion burns bright among iGEM participants and was undeniable for us as judges.
Once the scorecards were tallied and winners announced, it was this passion for innovation that once again reminded me what a fun experience iGEM is for everyone who participates. The excitement and the optimism of all iGEMers is the reason why IDT participates each year, and why we can’t wait to see what the 2021 competition has in store for us all!
This is a guest post by IDT, a Platinum Partner of the 2021 iGEM Competition. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities at iGEM.
For the 2021 Competition, teams can once again access up to 20 kb FREE custom DNA or equivalent products from IDT. Register with IDT before October 1, 2021. Learn more.
Applications to be a judge at the 2021 Giant Jamboree are now open! Learn more
