iGEM CONCORDIA
Our goal
To promote synthetic biology among the next generation of scientists by providing hands-on experience in the field; and to create a space for the democratization of knowledge among students and the general public.
Who we are
We are a group of undergraduate students and graduate mentors, representing Concordia University in the annual International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition (iGEM).
Through dialogue and mentorship, we seek to grow a diverse community of cross-disciplinary thinkers and creators, and use engineered biology to achieve positive social change and climatic justice.
This Year's Project: Mining Remediation
In a country built largely on resource extraction, mining continues to shape Canada’s landscapes and its people. Unfortunately, the impacts of mining cannot be ignored.
Mine effluent – water originating from mine sites and discharged (intentionally or accidentally) into the environment – negatively impacts ecosystems and the communities living along contaminated waterways. This contamination is an urgent issue both at home and abroad and treating mining effluent is critical to maintaining sustainable mining practices.
The implementation of water treatment technologies is already mandated in Canada but conventional systems are often expensive and ineffective in reaching small concentrations of contaminants. In recent years, biological treatment programs have been successfully implemented at scale to treat a wide range of contaminants.
This year, we take inspiration from these pioneering programs to create a microorganism that efficiently removes contaminants from mining effluent. Using an acid- and heat-resistant strain of yeast, we will bind nickel and copper using surface binding proteins. We will also adapt an existing bioreactor design to support the growth of the yeast under the harsh conditions of effluent or industrial waste, with mechanisms for the removal of bound metals.
Help us compete at the iGEM Grand Jamboree
The field of synthetic biology is growing exponentially, and related public policy is being developed in real time. Every year we explore this growth as we participate in the prestigious international conference, the iGEM Grand Jamboree. Together students, academics and industry leaders gather to explore how synthetic biology can solve worldwide challenges.
This year the Grand Jamboree is hosted in Paris. We are excited for this opportunity to enhance our experience and grow as a Concordia team.
Why we need your help
With this year's project, we are excited to start a new chapter in iGEM Concordia's story, with a focus on a real-world problem of local and international importance.
Your support will help us:
- Conduct the research and development of our project idea
- Connect with an international network of mentors and peers
- Develop invaluable hands-on research skills and experience
- Offset the travel and registration expenses of participating in the iGEM Jamboree
- Share our passion for synthetic biology with the next generation of young scientists through outreach
Please give generously today!
Help promote synthetic biology among the next generation of scientists by providing hands-on experience in the field.