Paris – A remarkable achievement unfolds as a team of undergraduate students from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune clinches a gold medal at the prestigious International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) synthetic biology competition. The team not only secured a spot in the Top 10 globally but also earned multiple accolades, including the coveted Best Education Award.
The iGEM Grand Jamboree, held in Paris from November 2 to November 5, 2023, served as the backdrop for this outstanding accomplishment. Outshining over 400 participating teams, the IISER Pune team’s research on sustainable aviation fuel garnered attention, leading to nominations in categories such as Best Climate Crisis Project and Best Integrated Human Practices.
The awards ceremony on November 5, 2023, recognized the team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of synthetic biology. The IISER Pune students, mentored by Prof. Saikrishnan Kayarat, Dr. Mridula Nambiar, and Dr. Mehmet Berkmen, not only showcased groundbreaking research but also engaged in various educational and community programs, earning them a nomination for the Best Presentation Award.
The 14-member team, led by Oyindrila Samanta and Ishaan Chaudhary, demonstrated excellence in scientific inquiry and community engagement. Their research, focusing on jatropha oil-based sustainable aviation fuel using yeast as a model system, exemplifies the team’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through innovative solutions.
The success of the IISER Pune team underscores the institution’s dedication to fostering scientific curiosity and community involvement. Congratulations to the entire team, and we eagerly anticipate their future endeavors as they continue to make strides in the field of synthetic biology.
Team Members:
Student Leaders:
- Oyindrila Samanta
- Ishaan Chaudhary
Student Members:
- Authisha Thirumani Selvam
- Pranesh P
- Anuvind Pramod
- Ketak Kapadnis
- Alfi Sajeev
- Aparajita Srinivasan
- Apoorvaa Gopal
- Prateek Makhija
- Rajalaxmi Behera
- Rohaneshwar Manikandan
- Sashank Chandra Reddy Singam
- Yuvraj Belani
Mentors:
- Geetanjali Ghosh
- Saptarshi Mridha
- Sonali Gupta
- Kundan Kumar
- Aakash Chandramouli
Primary PI:
- Prof. Saikrishnan Kayarat (IISER Pune)
Secondary PIs:
- Dr. Mridula Nambiar (IISER Pune)
- Dr. Mehmet Berkmen (New England Biolabs)
