WE RECIEVED THE GOLD MEDAL
For our ABOA 2025 project we wanted to focus on forensic science as it is an often overlooked part of synthetic biology. After months of brainstorming, research, and consulting forensic experts, we developed our final project: VeriFied. Our year-long journey culminated at the iGEM Grand Jamboree, where we were thrilled to be awarded the Gold Medal!
VeriFied project description: Forensic science lacks reliable methods for determining the age of bloodstains, a key factor in reconstructing crime timelines. Currently, crime scene investigators have to piece together timelines from miscellaneous evidence, making the process prone to human error. VeriFied - an on-site forensic investigation tool -is based on an enzyme fragment complementation assay that produces a bioluminescence signal. This signal correlates with levels of oxidized human serum albumin, which increase over time as bloodstains are exposed to air. This provides a much desired quantitative method for determining the age of a bloodstain.
How does VeriFied work?
With VeriFied we can:
Our project in short:
HUMAN PRACTICES
To build a responsible bloodstain determination test we consulted experts across related fields. The feedback we received shaped the evolution of VeriFied, enabling us to design a solution that aligns with existing forensic practices and has the potential for a significant real-world impact.
DESIGN AND RESULTS
Check out our project poster to view a summary of our design and results. Click to view the full image.
OUR EDUCATIONAL WORK
Our mission was to provide resources for young people interested in natural sciences and to inspire them to delve deeper into the world of synthetic biology.
CREATING A SYNBIO MATERIAL PACKET
We built an educational material packet on biotechnology laboratory methods, developed according to feedback from biology teachers, students and an education development network.
VISITS AND EVENTS
To make synthetic biology visible and exciting wherever people might encounter it we organized several events throughout the year, including visits to upper secondary schools, a workshop at the Heureka Science Center, and an interactive event at the Turku Main Library.
DIGITAL OUTREACH
We created an interactive game on antibiotic resistance, launched a podcast exploring iGEM behind the scenes and created a vibrant Instagram series that breaks down our project’s complex ideas into inspiring posts.
