The Waterloo iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine) Team is an undergraduate research and design team focused on synthetic biology and genetic engineering. Every year the team develops new solutions for tackling current problems in or related to the field, and we compete in the iGEM Competition. Our team spans all six faculties, and we give undergraduate students the opportunity to explore and contribute to a growing research field through experiential learning and personal training.
This past year our team used the CRISPR-Cas9 system and attempted to improve its function as a genome editing tool. By modifying how CRISPR binds to and recognizes DNA, we designed it to target a wider proportion of the genome, and to decrease turnaround time for targeting different sequences in the lab. In addition, we attempted to use CRISPR as a viral defense mechanism in plants for the first time, to add a new mechanism to plants’ native immune systems.
Our team is passionate about science, math, and engineering, and we’re looking for smart and enthusiastic people to join our team.
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