The City University of Hong Kong (CityU) iGEM team has earned prestigious recognition at the iGEM 2024 competition, securing a Gold Medal and the Best Education Award for their groundbreaking work in synthetic biology.
Their winning project, titled “Bevatech – Spot the Fake. Safeguard the Cure,” tackles the critical global issue of drug counterfeiting, particularly in cancer treatments. The team developed an aptamer-based lateral flow test strip designed to quickly and affordably detect counterfeit versions of Bevacizumab, a cancer drug. This innovative solution is not only cost-effective but also has the potential for worldwide deployment, addressing a significant public health threat.
In addition to the Gold Medal, the team earned recognition in several key categories at the competition. They were named among the Top 5 teams in the Best Therapeutic Project category and ranked within the Top 10 teams for Best Presentation. These accolades underscore the team’s exceptional research and presentation skills.
The CityU iGEM team’s achievement was further highlighted by their receipt of the Best Education Award, which recognizes their dedication to educational outreach and the dissemination of scientific knowledge to the wider community. This award acknowledges their efforts to engage with and inspire the next generation of scientists.
The iGEM competition, founded in 2003, is one of the world’s premier events for young researchers in synthetic biology. It provides a platform for students from around the world to design, build, and test innovative biological systems using standard genetic parts. With a focus on solving real-world challenges, participants’ projects span a range of critical fields, including healthcare, sustainability, and environmental protection. The annual iGEM Giant Jamboree serves as a showcase for these pioneering projects, where teams present their work to a global audience.
Winning a Gold Medal at iGEM is a testament to the CityU iGEM team’s excellence in innovation, collaboration, and impact. Their success places them among the top-tier teams worldwide, reflecting the remarkable talent and creativity within CityU’s scientific community.
Once again, congratulations to the CityU iGEM team for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the field of synthetic biology. Their dedication and ingenuity continue to inspire and set a new standard for future generations of researchers.
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