Twinn4MicroUp Joins iGEM Fest 2025: Inspiring Collaboration Through Synthetic Biology
From 18th–20th July 2025, the Medical School of the University of Athens was filled with the energy of young scientists and emerging researchers during iGEM Fest 2025—a dynamic seminar and workshop series, organised by the iGEM Athens 2025 team. Titled “iGEMed: Synthetic Biology and Interdisciplinary Science,” the event invited participants to explore how fields such as synthetic biology, chemical engineering, medicine, and computer science converge to tackle real-world challenges.
Among the contributors were Prof. Evangelos Topakas and Dr. Efstratios Nikolaivits from NTUA, both members of the Twinn4MicroUp project consortium. They brought to the event their expertise in biotechnology —specifically the role of synthetic biology in addressing plastic waste.
Professor Evangelos Topakas, also contributing as the Principal Investigator (PI) for the iGEM Athens 2025, delivered a presentation titled: “Moving towards biomass and plastic biorefineries: Unlocking the recalcitrance of natural and synthetic polymers.”, discussing how modern biotechnology approaches can facilitate breaking down and transforming recalcitrant natural and synthetic materials, laying the groundwork for sustainable, circular resource use. Furthermore, Dr. Nikolaivits followed with: “Biocatalytic Plastic Degradation: Between Promise and Practice.” In his engaging talk, he highlighted recent advances in enzyme-based plastic degradation and the practical challenges of applying these solutions at a practical level, bridging the gap between laboratory potential and industrial reality.
Both talks were drawn on case studies and research conducted within the Twinn4MicroUp framework, sparking meaningful discussion about how synthetic biology can be a driving force in environmental innovation. The NTUA representatives also participated in networking sessions, engaging directly with students and other attendees from diverse academic backgrounds. To further spread awareness of the project, they shared branded materials such as flyers and bookmarks that introduced Twinn4MicroUp’s mission and work.
The event itself was a rich blend of academic lectures, hands-on lab workshops (including PCR and DNA extraction), and training sessions in bioinformatics and coding, offering students both practical skills and exposure to cutting-edge research. More than 70 attendees participated, coming from a wide range of institutions and departments—from medicine and chemistry to biotechnology and engineering.
What made iGEM Fest truly stand out was its spirit of openness and interdisciplinary collaboration. It was a reminder that the most meaningful scientific progress often comes not from a single field, but from the creative fusion of many. By bringing young scientists into direct contact with experienced researchers and interdisciplinary ideas, the event successfully bridged knowledge, generations, and visions for the future.