FAQ

We have collected the most frequently asked questions on this page. If it did not help, please come to our Information meeting or contact Nanna Heinz at heinz@plen.ku.dk!

What is iGEM?

iGEM is the World Championship in Synthetic Biology for students. In short, it is similar to building your own startup. It is a complex competition where the teams not only work hard in the lab but do a variety of different tasks. For example, the team will brainstorm on project ideas, raise funds, reach out to experts, spread the word about synthetic biology, collaborate with other teams from all around the world, present their project at different conferences/meetups, etc.

Who will come up with the project idea?

The team will come up with the idea together. The supervisors will take the team through a dedicated brain storming process designed to produce a pool of great ideas. It can be something completely new or you can build on previous teams’ ideas. The best of the ideas will go through a rigorous qualification process and the team will choose which one to go forward with.

I am not an outstanding student. Should I still apply?

Do not worry, iGEM is not about grades! We are looking for people with a lot of different skills and competences.

How much time does it take?

The competition lasts for around 10 months. Before the summer expect two meetings per week and a few hours work between meetings, so around 10-15 hours per week. During the summer holidays it is full-time. Also, we have full-time iGEM weeks after each exam week.

Is it very difficult?

It is a demanding competition that will challenge you in many ways. However, it is extremely rewarding and a real life-changing experience.

Can I go on holiday?

We recommend no longer holidays than 2 weeks during the summer. Otherwise it is too difficult to make good progress for the team. We also know from experience, it can be very difficult to re-join a team and project after a long period away. Both the team and the project will have progressed a lot in the meantime and it will take time to get up to speed again.

Can I have a job beside iGEM?

In the past, some team members had part-time jobs beside iGEM. It is doable, but challenging.

Can I get ECTS for iGEM?

Yes! If you are a team member, it is a possibility to get 7.5-15 ECTS for iGEM. We definitely encourage students to take this opportunity.

Can we make a startup after the competition?

It is possible, many successful startups came out of iGEM, e.g. GINGKO Bioworks. However, iGEM projects are developed under 'university license' which means we don't look into ownership (Intellectual Property Rights) during the project and everything is disclosed at the conference. BUT that does not mean you cannot make a start-up afterwards. It depends on the possibilities of the idea, the team and supervisors.

Who are we looking for?

As the competition is very complex, we are looking for people with many different backgrounds, scientific areas and competencies. It is expected that you are interested in science and entrepreneurship. But extensive prior knowledge is not a must. There are many other skills that are useful for the team for example coding knowledge, being able to edit videos, creating stunning presentations, being good with people, etc. What is a must then? You have to be a team player, you need to be open to different cultures and personalities, be hard-working, committed, and eager to learn.

How long is the competition?

The deadline for application is the 15^th of December. We aim to have interviews before Christmas holiday and start the team mid-January. The end of the competition is the Grand Jamboree in Paris, which is usually held at the end of October or beginning of November.

I am a first year student. Can I join?

Of course! In previous teams, first-year students made outstanding contributions to the projects.

I will finish my MSc soon. Can I apply?

Yes. The rule is that you are a student when you start iGEM.

How can I be part of the next team?

First, you need to apply. For that you will need to fill out a personality test, write a motivation letter, attach your CV and transcripts. The best candidates will be invited for one or two interview rounds where we will try to get to know you better. Usuall,y around 10 students are selected each year for the team and the actual work is expected to start in February.

Why do you need a personality test for the application?

The aim is to get to know you a little better. Do not worry! There is no good or bad personality type. We need all kinds of people for the team to succeed: extroverts, introverts, leaders, followers, storytellers etc.