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Behind a Grand Experience: Volunteers at the iGEM Grand Jamboree

Behind a Grand Experience: Volunteers at the iGEM Grand Jamboree


iGEM brings together the world's largest community of synbio researchers, educators, industry, investors, startups and policymakers in one place to build a better world using synthetic biology.

Behind the scenes lies a powerful force—the dedicated volunteers who make it all possible. Students, working professionals, retirees, or those seeking new adventures, over the past years, 700+ individuals have helped make the iGEM Jamborees possible through their efforts across various roles, ensuring that every Jamboree, whether in-person or virtual, is a seamless, engaging, and memorable experience for everyone involved. They do it with the same enthusiasm and joy as an Olympic medalist standing on the podium.

Read how, with the help of volunteers, iGEM has emerged stronger than ever before from the COVID-19 pandemic, with new paths for advancing synthetic biology and making iGEM available to virtually every community across the globe.

What did our iGEM Grand Jamboree Volunteers have to say about their experience?

How do iGEM Grand Jamboree Volunteers help create a grand experience for attendees?

  • Information Desk: The Welcoming Committee

    • The Information Desk is often the first point of contact for iGEM Grand Jamboree attendees. These friendly faces greet and assist attendees, providing them with the information they need to navigate the event. Whether it's answering questions, providing directions, or ensuring you’ve a safe and comfortable experience, Information Desk volunteers are the welcoming committee that sets the tone for the entire event.

  • Stage Management: The Orchestrators of Success

    • From hosting speakers to collaborating with tech teams, they ensure that presentations run smoothly. Volunteers also keep a close eye on the schedule, making real-time adjustments as needed to keep everything on track. Their work ensures that the audience experiences a flawless and engaging event.

  • Satellite Events Support: The Masters of Ambiance and Flow

    • The iGEM Grand Jamboree is a collection of satellite events that contribute to the overall experience. Volunteers in this role manage crowd control, guiding guests to where they need to be with a friendly smile and calm demeanor. Their work creates the inviting and organized environment that attendees have come to love.

  • Event Production Support: The Backbone of Virtual Engagement

    • In an era where virtual participation is increasingly important, the volunteers supporting event production are the backbone of the Jamboree’s hybrid format. They manage the behind-the-scenes elements of virtual participation, ensuring that online attendees can engage with the event as fully as those on-site. Whether it's troubleshooting technical issues or coordinating live-streams, volunteers maintain the inclusivity and reach of the event.

  • Flexibility and Dedication: Adapting to the Needs of the Moment

    • Perhaps one of the most remarkable qualities of the volunteers is their flexibility. Often tasked with additional assignments as the need arises, they demonstrate a remarkable ability to adapt and rise to any challenge.


A Heartfelt Thank You

As we look back on years, the iGEM Jamborees wouldn’t be the success they are without the hard work, passion, and contributions of our volunteers. To the hundreds of volunteers who have given their time and energy, we offer our deepest gratitude. You are the true heroes of iGEM, and we celebrate your invaluable contributions 💚

Looking Forward - Volunteer your way into the future of synthetic biology!

  • Be part of a community and grow your network: The iGEM Grand Jamboree unites the world's largest community of synbio researchers, educators, industry, investors, startups and policymakers in one place to help build a better world using synthetic biology.

  • Experience the future of synthetic biology: The iGEM Grand Jamboree will give you a glimpse into the future of synthetic biology that you won’t want to miss!

  • Your window to the global synthetic biology ecosystem: With over 80,000 individuals who contributed to the growth of iGEM, our community welcomes thousands of new members each year and is building an ever-growing synbio future!

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