Recruitment update
Stand by for updates on how to join by late fall 2026.
We're between recruitment cycles. To get the latest application details the moment they're live, join UM Synbio — the University of Manitoba synthetic biology community where we announce intake info first.
Join Prairie iGEM
Students from Science, Arts, Agriculture, Engineering, Management, and Architecture all shape every project. You don't need prior synthetic biology experience you need curiosity, follow-through, and the willingness to work with a team.
Join the next cohort
A team built by students from science, arts, engineering, agriculture, and beyond.
Every project runs on six subteams. Choose your entry point and know that students often contribute across more than one.
Wet Lab
Hands-on experimental work: cloning, expression, protein work, and characterization of the project's biological systems.
Dry Lab
Protein structure, molecular dynamics, bioinformatics, and data analysis. Plays a growing role in modern iGEM projects.
Human Practices
Interview stakeholders, study ethics and impact, and shape the project so it actually works for the communities it aims to serve.
Outreach
Bring synthetic biology into Manitoba classrooms, summer camps, and community events. Translate research into stories people remember.
Design & Media
Build the team's wiki, design visuals, shoot video, and maintain this website. You don't need a fine-arts degree. Just curiosity and taste.
Operations
Keep the team running: logistics, travel fund support, partnerships, sponsorships, and the thousand small things that turn plans into reality.
Applications open each fall to build the upcoming iGEM cycle. Dates are confirmed by the current leadership team follow us on Instagram or reach out by email for exact deadlines.
Fall
Info session + open call for the next cycle.
Early winter
Subteams assembled, project scoping begins.
Winter–summer
Research, modeling, human practices, outreach.
Fall
Present the work at iGEM in Paris.
No. Lots of our members join without prior synbio experience you just need curiosity and willingness to learn.
It varies by subteam, but plan for several hours per week during the active season, with bursts around deadlines.
Prairie iGEM is a student extracurricular, not a job. Many members use the experience toward scholarships, co-ops, and grad-school applications.
The Grand Jamboree is the culmination, but we understand that not every member can travel. We'll tell you clearly what's required as you apply.
Graduate students are welcome and often take on mentorship roles alongside their research.
Sometimes reach out and ask. Most recruitment is in the fall, but subteams occasionally bring in members later.
Reach out to the team by email or through Instagram DMs and we'll share the current application form and next info session. Include your year, program, and a sentence on which subteam interests you most.
Come to an info session or drop a line. No commitment required.
