Overview - Science Popularization Plan for Synthetic Biology

Our initiative aims to popularize knowledge related to science, biology, and synthetic biology among a broader audience, while also raising public awareness about the issue of antibiotic residues in food. Through science popularization summer camps, seminars, scenario-based performances, and other formats, we have reached diverse groups including the elderly and children, as well as high school and university students, and are committed to inspiring the next generation of synthetic biology enthusiasts.

Preparation

During the preparation phase of the project, we first collected information online, gathered and organized literature on antibiotic use, and gained an understanding of the current situation of antibiotic use and people's current perceptions of antibiotics. We found that the general public's knowledge of antibiotics is relatively weak overall, especially in rural areas, where there exists a gap in urban-rural development.

Rural economic development is relatively backward, farmers have weak safety awareness, and there is a lack of health education knowledge. This makes it even more necessary for us to focus on and carry out science popularization work in these areas.

Based on this, we designed and produced promotional brochures and slides presentations relevant to rural areas and made material preparations. At the same time, we planned the content and forms of the science popularization activities to be conducted in rural areas. We intend to conduct research on the use of antibiotics in agriculture and design science popularization content to introduce synthetic biology. The main form will be volunteer teaching for science popularization in rural primary schools. We will carry out a series of activities, such as science popularization themed events, situational drama performances, and knowledge quizzes. Additionally, under the leadership of village chiefs, we will organize collective meetings to conduct themed lectures for rural residents to popularize synthetic biology.

Synthetic Biology Promotion Camp

With the core goal of lowering the barriers to science and stimulating interest in exploration, we carry out a series of synthetic biology education activities for the general public, especially teenagers and science enthusiasts, through engaging and interactive formats. These activities aim to convey the core logic of synthetic biology—"modular design and functional creation"—and demonstrate its application value across multiple fields.

Taking synthetic biology as the entry point, we have launched a variety of activities. For example, in offline science popularization events, we hold relevant knowledge lectures and organize audience interaction sessions to answer the public’s questions about synthetic biology. These efforts help better break down the barriers to science and establish a cognitive connection with the subject. For teenagers, they also serve to ignite their passion for science.

Figure 1: Students participating in the Synthetic Biology Promotion Camp

Slides on Introduction to Synthetic Biology

Content

This event introduced synthetic biology to pupils with the theme "Designing Life Like Building Blocks". Using vivid slides and LEGO analogies, we explained how to design biological parts for new functions, showcasing fascinating applications like glowing plants and pollution-cleaning microbes, which sparked their interest in cutting-edge science.

Feedback

The interactive session was a highlight of the event. Children enthusiastically shared ideas for "amazing creatures" they would like to design using synthetic biology. Their imaginations were both playful and showed a degree of understanding about biological functions. One child wanted to design trees capable of "glowing through photosynthesis" to power streetlights at night while absorbing CO₂. Another envisioned "specialized marine microbes that eat plastic" to clean up ocean pollution autonomously. A student suggested "lawn grass that emits a mosquito-repelling scent", allowing play on the grass in summer without mosquito bites. These creative ideas reflected the children's desire to apply science to improve the environment.

Reflection

The "building blocks" analogy proved highly effective in simplifying complex concepts. Future activities could further integrate hands-on sessions. For instance, we could design genes representing different functional products as "biological building blocks" for children to assemble. Alternatively, incorporating various art forms such as drawing, origami, and sculpture could encourage children to visualize the miraculous creatures imagined through synthetic biology, thereby deepening understanding while fostering creativity.

Rural Elementary School Antibiotic Popularization Program

For HunanU, rural educational support is a long-term strategic initiative. With over one-third of our nation's population residing in rural areas, we firmly believe that geographical constraints should not limit access to the flame of science and knowledge.

This year, we selected rural primary schools to carry out educational activities, engaging with more than 200 students across two schools in Xiamen Province and Fujian Province. We designed science popularization content for them, including thematic lectures, explanatory sessions using pamphlets, and scenario-based drama performances, to educate about the issue of antibiotic residues in food and their associated risks. These methods significantly enhanced the engagement and enjoyment of the learning process.

Location 1: Xinqiao Primary School in Zhangping City, Fujian Province

In the public education phase, we focused on rural areas, distributing materials and biosafety manuals to popularize biosafety knowledge among the public. We also promoted the "Antibiotic Detection" project to those already working in the field of biology. During the educational activities, the public showed strong interest, stating that this knowledge is very helpful to them and they are willing to apply these knowledge achievements in their subsequent work. Our team also recognizes the urgent need for synthetic biology in our project. "Antibiotic Detection" will undoubtedly benefit biological research and human health in various fields.

Content

In July, we visited Xinqiao Primary School in Xinqiao Town, Zhangping City, Fujian Province, and conducted a series of educational activities that integrated popular science knowledge about antibiotics for the children. We distributed promotional brochures for educational outreach.

During the sessions, focusing on the theme of food safety, we carried out science education on the use of antibiotics in agriculture and animal husbandry. We guided the children through reading creatively designed promotional brochures and organized interactive Q&A sessions covering topics such as:

Identifying common types of antibiotics
Discussing appropriate scenarios for their use
Understanding the impacts of excessive antibiotic use on human health

These activities significantly enhanced the children's awareness of antibiotics and supplemented their basic knowledge.

Feedback

The children really enjoyed the popular science activities we organized, and the exquisite design of the promotional manuals also attracted their interest. The school teachers also expressed their support for our activities and put forward valuable suggestions on the content of our manuals.

Reflection

We believe that promotional brochures are an effective means of disseminating knowledge, yet they lack a certain degree of interactivity. We hold the view that science education should not simply be about transmitting information, but should instead create opportunities for two-way dialogue with the children, encouraging more children to personally engage in our projects and in the field of synthetic biology. This will be the focus of our improvements in future educational outreach activities.

Teaching Support Promotional Brochure

Figure 2: Distributing brochures at Xinqiao Primary School

Figure 3: Interactive Q&A session with students

Figure 4: Group photo with students and teachers

Location 2: Xingwang Village, Xinshao County, Shaoyang City, Hunan Province

Figure 5: Team visiting Xingwang Village for science outreach

Content

In July, we ventured deep into Xingwang Village, Xinshao County, Shaoyang City, Hunan Province, to impart popular science knowledge on biosafety and disease prevention to the children. By enlightening their understanding of synthetic biology, we opened the door to biological knowledge for them. We focused on introducing the concept of antibiotics and our "Antibiotic Detection" project, and designed a scenario-based drama performance. This created a lifelike situation, allowing the children to learn about the issue of antibiotic residues in food through immersive acting, thereby enhancing the vividness and intuitiveness of the interaction.

Scenario Script: The Troubles of Little Pig Zhuangzhuang

Feedback

By actively performing in the skit "The Troubles of Little Pig Zhuangzhuang", the children gained a deeper understanding of antibiotic use. The student who played "Little Pig Zhuangzhuang" expressed that performing the role helped them truly grasp the discomfort of illness and the dangers of antibiotic misuse. Meanwhile, the child who played "Doctor Auntie Wang" felt a great sense of accomplishment in conveying important knowledge to their peers. All the children agreed that this interactive, performance-based learning method was highly engaging. They found that the vivid storyline helped them firmly remember key messages, such as "antibiotics should not be used indiscriminately" and "it's important to buy meat from safe sources". They were delighted to become ambassadors for food safety through their acting.

Reflection

We observed that due to their young age and limited access to relevant educational resources, the children's knowledge of antibiotics was relatively basic. However, we were greatly encouraged by their strong interest in the skits we presented and the messages we aimed to convey. For future rural educational outreach activities, we plan to develop illustrated storybooks and animations. By leveraging more engaging visual effects and hands-on experiences, we hope to capture the attention of more children and help them better understand the story and importance of science.

Community Workshop on Antibiotic Usage

The most common areas of antibiotic misuse are in animal husbandry and aquaculture. The irrational use of antibiotics in livestock farming is often the source of antibiotic residue issues in food. Therefore, we believe it is necessary to understand farmers' antibiotic usage during the breeding process, educate them about the dangers of antibiotic misuse, and provide recommendations on the types and dosages of antibiotics. By coordinating with neighborhood committees, we invited farmers to participate in seminars, aiming to establish two-way communication with the community. This approach allowed us to disseminate scientific knowledge while conducting our research.

Figure 6: Workshop introduction session

Figure 7: Farmers discussing antibiotic practices

Figure 8: Interactive Q&A with local breeders

Content

The workshop focused on the issue of antibiotic use in rural animal husbandry. Adopting a two-way communication approach, we first invited farmers to share their practical medication experiences to gain insights into on-the-ground practices. We then used charts and data to illustrate the hazards of antibiotic misuse: not only does it lead to antimicrobial resistance in animals, increasing farming risks, but it also impacts human health through the food chain. Finally, we collaboratively discussed practical improvement strategies, such as distinguishing between therapeutic and preventive use, strictly adhering to withdrawal periods, and considering alternatives like improving breeding environments and vaccination.

Feedback

Many participants expressed that this was the first time they had systematically learned about the direct link between antibiotic residues and their own health, beyond just animal health concerns. During the interactive session, questions were highly specific, such as inquiries about withdrawal periods for different antibiotics and the availability of alternative solutions, indicating that farmers were seriously considering practical improvements. At the end of the workshop, participants expressed hope for more similar exchanges with us in the future.

Reflection

The workshop successfully facilitated mutual learning. We recognized that practical advice rooted in farmers' realities is most effective. However, sustained support is crucial for changing long-established practices. Future plans include creating quick-reference guides and establishing long-term support channels like WeChat groups and veterinarian partnerships to drive lasting change.

Whimsical “Structures” of Life — Bio-Tech Fun Market

As part of the 2025 National Science Popularization Month in Hunan, our team organized the interactive event “Whimsical ‘Structures’ of Life — Bio-Tech Fun Market.” This event aimed to lower the barriers to synthetic biology for the general public by presenting the logic of gene circuits and modular design in an engaging, hands-on format. Instead of delivering one-way lectures, we emphasized dialogue and co-creation with participants, inviting them to explore how synthetic biology can be used to build novel life functions and address real-world challenges.

Figure 9: Participants assembling gene circuit models

Figure 10: Explaining modular design with magnetic blocks

Content

The activity was designed around the theme “Life as Programmable Circuits.” Participants were guided to use colorful cards, magnets, and model blocks to assemble simplified gene circuits. For example, we introduced the idea of “switches” in gene regulation—abstracted into “on/off” building blocks—and encouraged participants to design their own functional circuits, such as:

a “light-controlled switch” that activates glowing microbes,
a “safety gate” that only turns on under specific conditions,
or a “multi-input system” mimicking how cells integrate signals.

Through these models, we communicated the core synthetic biology principle of modularity: just like electronic circuits or LEGO pieces, biological parts can be reassembled to achieve new functions. To deepen engagement, we set up Q&A challenges and storytelling sessions where children and adults brainstormed what “gene circuits” they would design if they were bioengineers.

Feedback

Participants, especially children, showed strong enthusiasm. Many shared imaginative designs, such as bacteria that detect pollution and emit colors, or plants that glow to reduce energy use at night. These ideas reflected both curiosity and a recognition of how synthetic biology can be applied to societal issues. Adults expressed appreciation for the interactive style, noting that the building-block approach made complex concepts accessible.

Reflection

This activity showed us the value of two-way engagement: instead of simply “teaching biology,” we co-created new visions of science with the public. The analogy of building circuits proved especially powerful in connecting synthetic biology to familiar experiences like electronics and games. In future iterations, we hope to introduce even more creative formats—such as augmented reality or collaborative storytelling—so participants can design, simulate, and share their own synthetic biology circuits. By emphasizing dialogue, creativity, and public imagination, we aim to inspire lasting interest in synthetic biology and cultivate a culture of shared innovation.

Figure 11: Children designing their own gene circuits

Figure 12: Final showcase of participant creations

iGEM Club: Inspiring the Next Generation of HunanU iGEMers

The year 2024 marked HunanU’s very first journey in iGEM, during which we also founded the iGEM Club on campus. The club aims to identify and nurture potential enthusiasts of synthetic biology, passing down our passion and experience to future generations. We were delighted to see that some of the club members became core members of the 2025 HunanU iGEM team. In 2025, we continued to operate the club, recruiting new members through diverse formats and strengthening HunanU as a vibrant and sustainable team.

Figure 13: iGEM Club orientation session

Figure 14: Freshmen experiencing lab work during club visit

Content

The club’s activities began with an introductory session designed to welcome new members. Team leaders presented the fundamentals of the iGEM competition and the focus of our projects, while highlighting the iGEM spirit—open collaboration, interdisciplinary communication, social responsibility, and forward-looking innovation. Through storytelling and sharing past experiences, new members came to understand that iGEM is not merely a competition, but also a global platform for dialogue between young scientists.

Following this, we invited club members into our laboratory for an immersive experience. Most of the participants were first-year students with a keen enthusiasm for life sciences. They were guided through a tour of the lab, introduced to simple yet engaging experimental practices, and instructed in basic safety protocols. This hands-on opportunity allowed them to experience synthetic biology in action and sparked their curiosity for further exploration.

Feedback

The freshmen responded with great enthusiasm. They shared that the laboratory experience gave them their first genuine sense of scientific research and further strengthened their interest in life sciences. Many students immediately inquired about how to become more involved in the iGEM team, demonstrating strong motivation. Meanwhile, our team members felt a renewed sense of accomplishment by realizing that through sharing and dialogue, they could pass on their passion for synthetic biology to others.

Reflection

The establishment of the iGEM Club not only brought fresh energy to the HunanU team but also highlighted the importance of education and legacy. Synthetic biology thrives on continuous dialogue, collaboration, and innovation—and the club provides precisely such a platform. In the future, we hope to develop the iGEM Club into a more open community by hosting regular seminars, interdisciplinary workshops, and even collaborations with the general public, thereby exploring the limitless possibilities of synthetic biology together.

Summary

Through our science popularization activity plan, we have enabled people from different regions and with varying educational backgrounds to have broad exposure to knowledge about synthetic biology. To a certain extent, we have narrowed the urban-rural cognitive gap and achieved the goal of knowledge popularization, which aligns with the original intention of our overall education efforts. This will better drive sustainable development in rural areas.