Tallahassee – The International Genetic Engineer Machinery (IGEM) team at Florida State University has fired curiosity in the STEM field using synthetic biology, attracting international attention at major biotechnology events this summer.
The team, consisting of 10 undergraduate and faculty groups, recently participated in the 2025 IGEM North America Expo in Ottawa, Canada. The event brought together over 60 teams from around the world, presenting students with the opportunity to present their projects and interact with biotechnology researchers and industry leaders.
The FSU team has announced a project focused on bacteria engineering to prevent dental cavities. Using genetic switches, students are working to reduce the production of lactic acid in their mouths. This is an innovation that we hope will ultimately lead to a new approach to oral health.
In addition to introducing scientific work, the team also took part in the STEM outreach fair at the expo, involving hundreds of children and families in hands-on activities designed to explain the fundamentals of synthetic biology. Using models and visual aids, team members helped them understand the complex concepts and spark excitement of young learners.
“Sharing our work with a wide audience, especially the kids, was a highlight of our trip,” said FSU senior Leila Elfani. “It reminded me of why I was caught up in science in the first place.”
Born at MIT, the IGEM competition is one of the world’s leading student-led synthetic biology competitions. Each team is working on a multi-month research project to solve real-world problems using engineered biology.
This year’s team includes students majoring in biological sciences, biomedical engineering, computer science and other STEM fields. Faculty leaders from College of Arts and Science and the FAMU-FSU Faculty of Engineering will guide students through competitive research and preparation.
The FSU team will continue to improve the project before heading to Igem Grand Jamboree in Paris, France this October. There, they join hundreds of teams around the world, presenting the final result and competing for awards.
Tim Megraw, FSU chemistry professor, one of the team’s advisors, said the experience offers more than just academic enrichment.
“IGEM offers students the opportunity to lead real research, collaborate internationally and communicate science to the public. It’s an essential skill for the next generation of scientists,” Meglow said.
FSU’s participation is part of a broader university effort to promote undergraduate research and innovation in life sciences.
