The International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization that dedicates its efforts to the advancement of synthetic biology through the development of a collaborative open community. The annual global iGEM Competition trains students of all ages and backgrounds in the power of science while paired with social responsibility. Though based on competitive projects, the iGEM Network doubles as an experiential learning opportunity that exposes students to multiple career paths including science communication, entrepreneurship, science policy, and social impact, in addition to cutting edge synthetic biology techniques. Because of the importance we place on students, we present the iGEM Mentors Network, an online community of experts created by iGEMers for iGEMers.
This structured opportunity to connect iGEMers with experienced professionals provides an infinite resource for iGEM activities and individual iGEMers. What may begin as a mentee seeking advice on cloning a gene can easily lead to an informational interview with the mentor. Mentors receive reciprocal benefits such as connecting with prospective collaborators, serving the community, and identifying and recruiting new hires into their respective organizations. Mentors advising teams participating in the current competition year will also be included as co-authors for posters and presentations. Based on the career exploration opportunities described above, it is important to recognize that the iGEM Mentorship Network is uniquely positioned to provide connections across multiple disciplines - a benefit to both mentors and mentees.
Participation for both mentees and mentors is simple and straightforward. Mentors join by completing a profile documenting their areas of expertise and time commitment. Mentees then contact us describing the advice they’re seeking. The Mentors Network will then contact an appropriate mentor after receiving a request from current iGEMers or iGEM alumni. There is no limit to the number of times you contact the Mentors Network, though we may connect you with different mentors to evenly spread time commitments. We highly encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. Even if your last iGEM experience was over a decade ago, we assure you that you are still a part of the iGEM Network, which continues to grow in number and diversity.
