Fourteen undergraduate students from the University of Indonesia (UI) brought home gold medals from the 2018 International Genetically Engineering Machine (iGEM) Foundation competition in Boston, United States, which was held from Oct. 24 to 28.
Led by medical student Valdi Ven Japranata, the UI team was recognized for its Finding Dipthy project, which expressed concern over two issues relating to diphtheria in Indonesia, namely a lack of early observation and awareness about the infection.
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The Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria was highlighted as part of the team’s solution and they plan to raise awareness by conducting charitable events and carrying out social work.
The UI team won the gold medal alongside other teams from countries like China, India and Denmark.
Founded in 2003, iGEM is a nonprofit organization focusing on synthetic biology. The international competition is held for students who display a great interest in the field. (wir/kes)