Teams transformed complex ideas into stunning posters. Judges walked from one creative display to another, sparking exciting conversations. It wasn’t just about data—it was about telling a story through visuals, colors, and science that speaks.
The sessions turned into a lively dialogue where participants tackled tough questions, defended their choices, and learned how to communicate science in fun and simple ways.
Imagine standing under bright lights, and suddenly your project is accused of creating zombies!
Crisis Comms organized by VIT Vellore put teams in chaotic, hilarious situations where they had just 2 minutes to prepare before facing the media. Outrageous rumors, viral social media posts, and dramatic questions kept everyone on their toes. The event tested quick thinking, storytelling, and the art of winning public trust.
The quiz room buzzed with energy as questions bounced from DNA trivia to mind-bending physics puzzles. Teams scribbled answers furiously, racing not only against the clock but also against each other. It was less of a quiz and more of an adrenaline-fueled showdown of wit, memory, and nerves of steel.
No words, just gestures—chaos guaranteed! From miming molecules to acting out impossible scientific concepts, Silent Charades turned into a rollercoaster of laughter and wild guesses. Teams bonded over ridiculous interpretations, making it one of the most entertaining parts of the day.
16:00 – 17:30
Gene Auction
Gene Auction is the thrilling climax of the day — part science, part drama, and part chaos! Imagine being in a buzzing auction hall where instead of antiques, genetic traits, enzymes, and futuristic bio-parts are up for bidding. Teams clutch their limited ATP credits like lifelines, whispering strategies, bluffing, and shouting bids. At any second, crisis cards crash the party, forcing dramatic pivots and reshuffling of entire plans. The energy is electric: laughter, groans, and sudden cheers fill the hall as each gene finds its highest bidder. It’s survival of the smartest — and the boldest!
Rules
Each team begins with a fixed pool of ATP credits. These credits act as your lifeblood — spend them strategically, or risk watching your opponents outbid you for critical survival genes.
All bids must be placed clearly and boldly. Whispering, hesitation, or confusion will disqualify the bid — confidence is the key to survival in this auction.
At random intervals, Crisis Cards are revealed, instantly changing the landscape of the auction. Teams must improvise, adapt, and sometimes even sacrifice earlier investments to stay in the game.
Rounds
Round 1 — Warm-Up Bids: Teams face simple gene auctions where the goal is to learn the ropes, test confidence levels, and build momentum for bigger battles.
Round 2 — The Strategy Storm: Mid-tier genes are unveiled. Crisis Cards begin to drop, forcing teams into rapid decision-making and creative problem solving on the spot.
Round 3 — Final Showdown: The rarest genes are up for grabs. Teams must defend their collection against surprise twists from judges, pulling every ounce of wit, negotiation, and courage.
The closing ceremony reflected the diversity of strengths within the community, with different teams excelling in technical execution, presentation, societal impact, and creativity. The victories of IISER Berhampur and REC Chennai stood out, but the overall spirit emphasized that every team had achieved something valuable through participation.
As the final event of the meet, the Ambassadors provided feedback on behalf of the judges, summarizing the strengths observed and offering advice for improvement. This closing reflection tied the three days together, ensuring that every participant left with not only recognition but also constructive insights to refine their projects further.
The Closing Ceremony was marked by a sense of accomplishment and excitement for the future. Participants celebrated new friendships, collaborations, and the collective progress of India’s synthetic biology community. The meet ended on a high note, with teams motivated and better prepared to take their projects to the international iGEM stage, carrying forward the lessons, feedback, and memories of the three days spent at ICT Mumbai.
