TALLAHASSEE — Florida State University’s International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) team is using synthetic biology to ignite curiosity in STEM fields, drawing international attention at a major biotech event this summer.
The team, comprised of 10 undergraduate students and a group of faculty mentors, recently attended the 2025 iGEM North America Expo in Ottawa, Canada. The event brought together more than 60 teams from across the globe, offering students the chance to present their projects and interact with researchers and industry leaders in biotechnology.
FSU’s team presented their project focused on engineering bacteria to help prevent dental cavities. Using a genetic switch, the students are working to reduce lactic acid production in the mouth—an innovation they hope could eventually lead to new approaches to oral health…