INCLUSIVITY

As part of our commitment to inclusivity, our iGEM team organized an event exploring “Traditional medicine” and herbal knowledge from diverse cultural backgrounds. This initiative aimed to represent the diversity of different healthcare approaches in different cultures and their association with natural products and herbs. We also aimed to highlight how these knowledge systems have often been excluded or undervalued in modern science, creating barriers to broader participation.

The use of herbs for medical practises is widespread around the world. Although modern medicine often doesn’t recognise the value of certain holistic approaches, it does recognise the healing properties of plants and often use them to create medicines. We believe that the traditional techniques used to cure ailments in the past must be preserved as a part of the cultural legacy of a population and can still be used along with modern healthcare methods. By drawing these connections, we hoped to expand access by making science more approachable to people who see their own traditions reflected in it.

In the context of this event we presented medical approaches such as Ayurveda, Botanical Medicine, African Medicine, Chinese Medicine and Unani Medicine and Homeopathy.

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that dates back over 3,000 years. Rooted in Sanskrit texts and holistic philosophy, Ayurveda emphasizes balance between mind, body, and spirit, and uses a wide variety of herbs, oils, and natural preparations. We presented the uses of herbs such as ashwagandha, turmeric, and tulsi used in this culture.

We spoke about Unani medicine, a system rooted in ancient Greek principles and further developed by Arab and Persian scholars. Based on the concept of balancing the four humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile), Unani emphasizes individualized treatment through diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes. We discussed the use of classical Unani herbs such as zulfi (licorice), sana makki (senna), and asrol (rauwolfia), as well as the system’s integration of medical theory with ethical and philosophical perspectives. (2)

In traditional Chinese medicine, Xuebijing (XBJI), a remedy composed of five different herbs, has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve the condition of patients with sepsis, support faster recovery, enhance outcomes, and assist those with blood clotting problems. Shenfu, in animal studies, has demonstrated the ability to reduce sepsis-induced lung damage and protect the heart. Additionally, natural compounds such as Ginsan, Nigella sativa, and Nardostachys jatamansi have shown anti-inflammatory and protective effects against sepsis in some studies.(3)(4)(5)

Also we presented the ideas of African Medicine and discussed how they can be integrated in modern western medicine. One of the main aspects of our discussions was how all of the above pharmaceutical herbs could be used to battle the progression of sepsis and the conclusion was that herbs with anti-inflammatory properties such as turmeric, ginger, ginsan, igella sativa, Nardostachys, licorice root and andrographis can have a positive effect and can be used to minimize the risk of developing sepsis, when accompanied with modern methods. Some of these plants also have antimicrobial, antioxidant and Immunostimulant properties. (6)

Finally, to make this event more interactive, we organised a botanic workshop with the help of professor Georgios Dimitrellos where visitors could try and recognise certain medicinal herbs and name them while also learning about their properties. Participants shared feedback during the workshop, helping us understand how such events can better reflect community needs and values.

With this event, we succeeded in bridging past and present, uniting cultures from different times and places in a single, meaningful gathering that honored and celebrated their diversity.

To make our campaigns more inclusive for non-English speakers, we translated our three informational booklets and comic book into multiple languages. These translations were carried out with the support of other iGEM teams, external collaborators, and members of our own team.

To view our booklets and comic book click here.

Aiming to make our content truly open and accessible to all users, regardless of their needs or challenges, we made several adjustments to our wiki page. This initiative reflects our commitment to inclusivity and our goal of ensuring that scientific knowledge can be shared freely and without barriers.

So we added an accessibility button with an Open Dyslexic option. Studies show that 5–10% of the global population and up to 17% of school-aged children are affected by dyslexia, which can make reading and understanding text challenging. To support these users, we have implemented a dyslexia-friendly font, designed to make reading easier and more comfortable. Features like this have been proven to help individuals with dyslexia access information more accurately and effectively, ensuring that everyone can fully engage with our content. ^(26)(27)

Also, we've underlined all our links to make them easier to identify and improve accessibility for everyone. This ensures that users with color blindness or visual impairments can clearly distinguish links from regular text.

In this way, our wiki is not just a source of information about our project, but also a space where inclusivity and equal access are put into practice.

After deeply listening to the stories of many sepsis survivors, a clear pattern emerged: creative expression played a powerful role in their healing, especially for those who face barriers to care and holistic support. As a team that values and practices creativity ourselves, and to make these voices visible, we integrated the arts into our work.

That's why we organized a series of art-focused events, including our Bioart Exhibition, our "Through the Lens: revealing sepsis, rethinking science" photo exhibition, and our "Healing Through Art: Calm and Care for Every Mind" Art Therapy event. We also invited children to express themselves through drawing during family events where we participated, like the "Family day" event and "Researchers night", as well as during our visits to local schools and to The Smile of the Child organization in Aigio.

So, with art playing such an important role in our events, we brought everything together to create a 3D digital art exhibition; a lasting, accessible space that preserves and shares the stories, emotions, and creativity of the marginalized groups we engaged.

Through this initiative, we amplified underrepresented voices and promoted inclusivity in science, ensuring that healing, self-expression, and scientific understanding are accessible to everyone. Click here to visit our 3D art exhibition.

As a team, we wanted to create a project that combined science with the human experience of sepsis. To ensure meaningful impact, we began by listening to sepsis survivors about their recovery journeys. A clear pattern emerged: art therapy played a crucial role in healing.

The exhibition, held on May 9th and 10th, 2025, was open to the public, making it accessible to people from all economic backgrounds. Over 100 visitors participated. Our goals were to:

• Present practical ways for individuals to cope with sepsis and other physical or mental health challenges.
• Change perceptions of microorganisms, showing their beauty under controlled conditions and making synthetic biology accessible and approachable.
• Promote awareness of sepsis, colorblindness, and hearing impairments, demonstrating that art can support healing during health crises.

Inclusivity was central to our planning. A sign language interpreter was present so visitors with hearing impairments could fully participate. Feedback forms collected audience impressions, with many attendees praising the workshops, accessibility adaptations, and the personal stories.

Our team developed an architectural design standard for an accessible laboratory to address a critical issue often overlooked in scientific spaces: inclusivity in physical design. Laboratories are the heart of innovation, discovery, and collaboration, but many remain inaccessible to individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities.

The importance of this standard lies in its recognition that accessibility is not just a legal or ethical requirement, it is a driver of innovation and equity. When laboratory environments exclude certain groups of people, valuable perspectives and talents are lost.

This work reflects our commitment to building a scientific community where everyone has the opportunity to contribute. Accessibility in laboratory architecture is not just about removing barriers, it is about reshaping how we envision scientific workspaces so they can truly embody the collaborative and inclusive spirit of science.

Click here to learn more about our AccessLab design standards.

To further promote inclusivity and accessibility in science and to make our lab as accessible as possible, we also focused on supporting blind and visually impaired individuals.

We placed strong emphasis on supporting blind people and individuals with visual impairments. According to data from the World Health Organization, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment, and 1 billion of these have not yet been addressed. (15)

Some studies even suggest that up to 50% of sepsis patients show retinal or visual changes, indicating that sepsis can severely affect the eyes and, in some cases, even lead to blindness. (17)

In order to reduce the problems blind individuals may face in a laboratory setting, we created Braille system labels. These labels enable blind or visually impaired users to navigate the lab independently and perform experiments with greater autonomy.

Sepsis is a condition that affects everyone, though some are at higher risk than others. Wheelchair users, for example, or people with quadriplegia, are prone to developing sepsis due to the formation of pressure ulcers. (18)

With these in mind, we decided to speak with wheelchair users. We organized a discussion group with the members of "Ifaistos", a sports club advocating for the rights and needs of people with disabilities.

During our discussion group we met Mr. Dimitris Kanellopoulos, the president of "Ifaistos" and Mr. Epameinondas Stamatis an athlete of the club, both of whom described how difficult it is to access healthcare services. They shared that many people in their community often hesitate and avoid going to hospitals, even in urgent situations.

With AECHMI, we aim to eradicate such an injustice in medicine by integrating our biological system into a portable and easy-to-use device that offers constant monitoring, prognosis and early diagnosis of sepsis.

To learn more about our future plans visit our Device page.

Our "Inclusive by Design" booklet addresses the multiple barriers that people with disabilities and neurodivergencies face in healthcare and science, including physical, cognitive, sensory, and communication challenges.

It expands access by providing practical solutions, clear instructions, and adaptable strategies that enable equal participation for individuals who are blind, deaf, autistic, or have other disabilities. This guide acts as a resource that healthcare teams, institutions, or external entities can build upon to improve inclusivity, staff training, and patient experience.

To view our "Inclusive by Design" Booklet click here.

Our comic script tells the story of a young person who experiences sepsis and hearing loss, yet overcomes barriers to pursue a career in science. By centering on accessibility, inclusion, and support networks, it highlights the social and structural challenges that can limit participation in STEM and encourages empathy and understanding among readers.

This work expands access to synthetic biology and science by providing an educational and motivational resource that represents voices often underrepresented in STEM. Through documenting these experiences, we offer a tool that other iGEM teams and educators can use to promote inclusion, remove barriers, and create opportunities for diverse individuals to contribute, participate, and be represented in scientific communities.

It demonstrates that fostering diverse perspectives strengthens science and inspires future generations. You can find more info on our contributions page.

As part of our goal to make science accessible to people belonging to diverse groups regarding age, and literacy level, our iGEM team visited Erasmios, a local German-Greek highschool, to engage students with the world of synthetic biology and scientific research.

Many students have limited exposure to university-level labs, so our visit aimed to bring a hands-on scientific experience to them, lowering barriers to participation and sparking curiosity about research and synthetic biology.

We began the session by introducing our team, sharing the story behind our project, and explaining how synthetic biology can be used to solve real-world problems, such as the early detection and treatment of sepsis.

Following the presentation, we led the class through a hands-on chemistry experiment, designed to reinforce fundamental scientific principles in a fun and interactive way. Students had the chance to participate actively, and work in small groups to complete the experiment under our guidance.

As part of our commitment to inclusive science from the earliest stages of education, we chose to engage with high school students who are just beginning to explore biology as a dynamic and promising scientific field.

We recognized that many public schools, like the 11th highschool of Patras, have limited access to labs, mentors, and cutting-edge research, which can act as barriers to participation.

We welcomed senior students from the 11th General High School of Patras, who visited the Department of Pharmacy as part of their Biology class. We designed a dedicated presentation introducing them to the iGEM competition and presented our project, Aechmi.

Finally, we gave students a tour of our laboratories, helping them connect with the scientific world firsthand and experience research as an accessible and engaging endeavor.

On Saturday, June 14th, our team participated in the Family Day Festival held at the Royal Theater in Patras. The event took place under the auspices of the Region of Western Greece, with the support of the well-known portal juniorsclub.gr.

As an iGEM team, we wanted to share our project and passion for science with people regardless of age, socioeconomic status, gender, or learning style. The event being free ensured that cost would not be a barrier to participation.

For our younger audience, we created simple, fun experiments using everyday household items. In one activity, we introduced children to DNA by showing them how to extract this vital molecule from fruits like strawberries and bananas.

We organized a workshop aimed at older participants focusing on the language of science, highlighting how some commonly used scientific terms unintentionally reinforce stereotypes or exclude certain groups.

On October 26th, our team had the honor of participating in Researcher's Night, welcoming visitors of all ages, particularly young children eager to learn about science. The event featured diverse scientific groups presenting experiments, laboratory equipment, and games.

Our team presented "The Blueprint of Life: From DNA to Chromosomes," using a model of the double helix to demonstrate DNA structure and explain in simple language how it is organized into chromosomes in human cells.

We further encouraged children to play our educational board game, "Synbio Shuffle," designed to be adaptable for kids with ADHD. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing our belief that science can be appreciated and understood by children from diverse cognitive and learning backgrounds.

Participation in Researcher's Night went beyond showcasing our project; it was an intentional effort to promote inclusivity in science and education.

The event titled "Science for All: Sepsis, Representation, and Health Equality" was held at the University of Patras and aimed to connect health education with social justice, equity, and diversity in clinical trials.

The program opened with a presentation of official educational material from the Sepsis Alliance, focusing on the critical signs of sepsis, the urgency of immediate response, and the importance of public awareness for timely recognition.

The second part highlighted the critical importance of diversity in clinical trials. When study cohorts are unrepresentative, results can overstate treatment effectiveness and worsen existing health inequalities.

By combining scientific education with social awareness, this initiative demonstrated how inclusive communication can empower communities and drive meaningful change both in public health and in the future of science.

With our Post-Sepsis Syndrome (PSS) Guide we aim to raise awareness on the topic and also to help reduce barriers to participation in science by translating complex medical knowledge into clear, accessible language.

This effort expands access by making scientific and healthcare information understandable to survivors, families, and caregivers who are too often left out of clinical discussions. The content was shaped through dialogue with sepsis survivors, incorporating their lived experiences, needs, and values.

We also translated this guide into several languages to further expand access to non-English speakers.

To view our Post-Sepsis Syndrome Guide click here.

Within our human-centered approach to sepsis, our team created the Sepsis Forum titled "Oops, I got sepsis", an online platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange.

This initiative aims to strengthen public discussion around sepsis, giving a voice primarily to patients who have survived, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and scientists who wish to share experiences, concerns, and suggestions.

By choosing an open, user-friendly, and free digital platform, we ensure that the Sepsis Forum remains inclusive and barrier-free, a space accessible to people of all ages, technological backgrounds, and educational levels.

Here is the link: bit.ly/oopsigotsepsis

Our team took part in the 3rd Student Conference of Biosciences, an important event that brought together students, research teams, and scientists from across Greece. The conference served as a platform for exchanging ideas, fostering scientific dialogue, and promoting networking among the next generation of bioscientists.

This platform allowed us to address barriers young researchers often face, such as limited access to national-level venues where their voices can be heard, promoting inclusivity in scientific dialogue.

Through our presentation, we highlighted the importance of early sepsis detection and showcased synthetic biology as a powerful tool for developing innovative diagnostic solutions, framing our project within a broader context of applied research with social impact.

By engaging in this conference, we contributed to bridging student-led research with the wider scientific community, ensuring that young scientists from diverse backgrounds have a voice in public scientific dialogue.

Our team participated in TEDx held in Patras, focusing on public engagement and awareness through a dedicated informational booth. The booth format enabled us to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds, creating an open space for dialogue and exchange of ideas.

We recognized that many people see synthetic biology as distant or overly technical, so our goal was to break down these barriers by using clear language, visuals, and relatable examples.

Throughout the day, we introduced attendees to the core elements of our project Aechmi, explaining the urgent need for early sepsis detection and the role synthetic biology can play in developing innovative diagnostic tools.

This outreach ensured that individuals from diverse socioeconomic, age, and scientific backgrounds could engage meaningfully with our work, increasing inclusivity in science and fostering community understanding of critical healthcare innovations.

Our Sepsis Conference, titled "Sepsis 360°: a holistic approach" marked the final action of our team and served as the closing event of our journey this year. It brought together doctors, researchers, experts, and students from health sciences faculties.

The conference was fully accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing participants, with interpretation into Greek Sign Language. Students were encouraged to share their thoughts and speak publicly, promoting the active participation of the next generation of scientists.

We hosted two workshops: "Inclusive Language Workshop" discussing the role of language in creating an inclusive environment, and "Designing a Healthcare Service for Everyone," where participants explored real-life scenarios of healthcare inclusivity challenges.

The conference welcomed experts of all genders and backgrounds and ensured students' voices were heard, highlighting not only the complexity of sepsis but also the importance of open, equitable, and accessible scientific dialogue for all participants.

This fact sheet is an educational resource that explains sepsis; a life-threatening response to an infection that can lead to organ failure, amputations, or death. It provides information on who is at risk, common symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and the global human impact of sepsis.

Our team has created this resource with an inclusive perspective, recognizing that sepsis can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or health condition. The fact sheet mentions how symptoms may appear a bit differently on various skin tones, addresses disparities in awareness and outcomes across racial and socioeconomic groups, and includes information relevant to children, older adults, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

By presenting sepsis in a way that reflects diverse populations, it promotes equitable access to knowledge and encourages timely, life-saving care for all. You can find more info on our contributions page.

We believe that true inclusivity cannot exist unless we intentionally reach out to the so-called "ordinary" members of society who are too often overlooked. That's why we placed great importance on how we used our team's social media presence.

In today's world, people of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of education are active on at least one social media platform. We recognized that limited access to scientific information and lack of representation in science-related media are key barriers, and social media offered a way to overcome them.

So we made a conscious effort to ensure our posts were written in clear, accessible language. We also included alternative text, making them usable for people with disabilities. Our content was designed not only to inform but also to encourage active engagement, such as comments, sharing, and participation in online discussions.

But we didn't stop there. We used our platform to highlight issues affecting socially excluded groups, to send anti-racist messages, and to inform our audience about communities that are vulnerable to neglect and often face medical discrimination, such as women and other marginalized populations. Audience feedback and interactions were monitored and used to adapt future posts to better address interests and questions, ensuring two-way dialogue.

As part of our strategy for the broad dissemination of scientific knowledge and active participation in public awareness initiatives, our team took part in three radio appearances. We had the honor to be hosted by 3 radio stations; by the Radio Station of the University of Patras (UPFM), in an interview with Mr. Giorgos Adamidis, by the Radio Station of the newspaper Peloponnisos, in an interview with Mr Lampropoulos and finally by the Radio Station Parapolitika 90,5FM, in an interview with Mr. Tsilimidis.

These interviews were not merely promotional opportunities but essential tools for scientific communication. Through them, we managed to inform the public about the iGEM competition, highlighting its significance and its contribution to research and innovation by student teams. We presented clearly and understandably our research project, Aechmi and at the same time, we used the public radio platform as an opportunity to raise awareness about sepsis, an urgent public health threat that often remains invisible in social consciousness. By explaining complex topics in plain language, we addressed barriers such as limited scientific literacy and unequal access to scientific information. ⁽²⁸⁾

The choice of radio as a communication medium was deliberate. In an era where information often spreads fragmentedly and through limited digital channels, radio remains accessible and universally reachable. It can be heard by people of all ages while being especially valuable for older adults, who are most affected by technological illiteracy and therefore often excluded from digital communication. By choosing to speak through radio we aimed to ensure that our message reaches as many people as possible, without exclusion.

Our participation in these media aligns with our team's broader mission; to reach not only the scientific community, but also the general population, contributing to the creation of a more informed, sensitized and scientifically empowered society.

We warmly thank the radio stations and journalists who supported this effort, providing valuable public space for the promotion of essential issues.

Our team ensured media inclusivity by sharing our iGEM work across diverse platforms, both online and in print, to reach a wide range of audiences. We published in local and regional newspapers like Peloponnisos, professional outlets such as Pharmacy Management Magazine, as well as accessible online spaces including the Nanascent Blog.

By recognizing that access to science can be limited by factors such as digital literacy, professional affiliation, or exposure to scientific publications, we deliberately diversified our media channels to reach as many people as possible.

By doing so, we made our work available to scientists, professionals, students, and the general public alike, promoting accessibility and engagement across different communities.

Through our interviews with several sepsis survivors, we realized that many of them found yoga to be extremely helpful during their recovery. The popularity of yoga amongst sepsis patients is not so surprising, considering that it is a practice commonly used to help people combat feelings of anxiety and offer peace of mind, especially when combined with meditation. (7)(8) We recognized that barriers such as mental health stigma, lack of accessible wellness programs, and physical or emotional challenges can limit participation in recovery-support activities.

So, we decided to organise a yoga and meditation workshop in order to not only support recovery but also to promote inclusivity for people experiencing mental health challenges, an aspect of well-being that is too often overlooked in today's fast-paced, productivity-driven society. We also wanted to show people of all ages and all backgrounds easy and meaningful ways through which they can benefit during the recovery process from an illness. The workshop also aimed to connect mind-body wellness with scientific understanding of stress, recovery, and overall health, linking holistic practices to our broader research goals.

To bring this to life, we invited several members of the meditation school of Patras who guided us through a session designed to quiet our thoughts, thus being able to connect more deeply with our senses and ground ourselves in the present. The session brought about a deep sense of relaxation and highlighted the importance of caring for our mental well-being.

The instructors explained that dedicating as little as half an hour a day to such exercises can significantly improve mood and energy levels, making mental health care more approachable and accessible for everyone.

A yoga session was also held in a calm outdoor setting, beginning with a brief introduction to the philosophy of yoga and its roots in ancient Indian tradition. Participants were gently guided through a series of accessible postures (asanas) and controlled breathing exercises (pranayama), designed to ease stress and enhance mental clarity. The flow was intentionally beginner-friendly, with modifications offered for every ability level, encouraging everyone to listen to their bodies and move at their own pace.

Many attendees later reflected that the practice left them feeling relaxed, centered, and more deeply connected therefore underscoring yoga's value not only as physical activity but as a holistic practice supporting mental and emotional well-being

In conclusion, the workshops showed how yoga and meditation can make mental health care more accessible for everyone, fostering relaxation, balance, and a sense of connection in an inclusive, supportive space.

Our Art Therapy event was an inclusive, multisensory experience that brought together people aged 18 to 70 from diverse backgrounds; students, cancer survivors from the Alma Zois non profit organization, and individuals living with mental health or developmental conditions. Through breathwork, movement, drawing, music, and storytelling, we created a safe space where participants could explore trauma, reconnect with their bodies, and express themselves freely. Potential barriers such as sensory sensitivities, language, and emotional distress were carefully addressed to ensure meaningful participation for all (9).

The event was shaped through open dialogue with experts and participants alike, ensuring it responded to real needs. We documented the experience through photos, videos, participant drawings, and reflection forms, so it can inspire future work. We also raised awareness on synthetic biology, sepsis, and mental health through an engaging presentation, offering attendees a broader understanding of both medical and scientific contexts.

The inspiration came from listening to sepsis survivors share powerful, often overlooked stories. Many described anxiety, depression, PTSD-like symptoms, and cognitive challenges that lingered long after their physical recovery. They felt unprepared for these emotional aftershocks and often lacked access to professional support. In fact, up to 30% of sepsis survivors develop PTSD. And it's not just sepsis. Worldwide, over 45 million people suffer from mental and behavioral disorders, with only a small proportion receiving adequate care. These struggles are real, and deeply human. (10)

As a team, we strongly believe that mental health deserves equal attention in any treatment journey. Whether in sepsis recovery or cancer care, complementary practices like art therapy can play a vital role. Research shows that art therapy reduces anxiety, lifts mood, and supports emotional processing (9). It's been used to support people living with depression, dementia, schizophrenia, and even the existential toll of chronic illness (9). Motivated by these insights, we collaborated with Dr. Sotiris Ifandis, a psychiatrist and certified Music Breathing therapist, and Dr. Apostolia Pastra, a researcher in investigative dramatisation and embodied healing. Together, we designed a workshop that centered on breath not only as a biological function, but as a metaphor for life, presence, and emotional resilience.

Guided by Dr. Ifandis' Music Breathing method, we began with sound and silence, slowly tuning into our bodies while listening to calming musing. Participants shared words, then images. They drew their breath and described their experiences. Under Dr. Pastra's direction, they moved, walked, turned, and ran. They sculpted their bodies from clay, eyes closed, and described what they created. In one powerful moment, they all sat back-to-back in silence, breathing as one. What emerged was more than expression. It was a transformation. People teared up, laughed, and shared personal thoughts. And for a moment, science didn't live in a lab or a paper; it lived in gesture, in music, in breath.

What made this event inclusive wasn't just the diversity of the participants, it was the intention behind every detail. Activities were designed in collaboration with those present, shaped by their needs and sensitivities. Everyone was invited to engage in ways that felt comfortable, with no pressure to perform or explain. We worked across multiple sensory modes; visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic, so that language was not a barrier to expression. Inclusivity also meant offering opportunities for social contribution: we welcomed "Better to Marrow" to host a booth where participants could learn about bone marrow donation and register as potential donors, turning presence into tangible support for others in need.

We documented everything: the drawings, the movements, the reflections, the quiet transformations. Questionnaires gathered feedback. Short videos and photos captured fleeting moments of connection. This material now forms a small but growing archive of what it looks like when science meets care.

Healing doesn't always come from data or diagnosis alone. It also comes from sitting in a circle, sculpting your breath, or finding your story in someone else's drawing. It comes from realizing that your body, though scarred, tired, and resilient, is still yours. This event was just the beginning. But it showed us what's possible when we stop separating science from the human experience. When we make space for both biology and emotion. We believe the future of science lies in these bridges: between research and reflection, between illness and identity, between care and connection. And we'll keep building them one breath at a time.

In order to communicate effectively with the children of the 2nd Special School of Patras, our first step was to get in touch with Mrs. Stavroula Tasakou, a special education teacher in primary education. She described to us the image of a school with children with special needs and also prepared us for our visit. With her, we discussed the challenges these children face in the school environment and how best to approach them. We recognized barriers such as varying cognitive abilities, attention span, and sensory sensitivities, and planned our activities accordingly.

After our conversation with Mrs. Tasakou, we realized how crucial inclusivity in education truly is. Wanting to better understand the reality behind her words, we looked into the wider picture. According to research, children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) face significantly higher levels of victimization and bullying compared to their peers.

In Greece, there are around 524 special education school units, and during the 2019–2020 school year, over 100,000 children with disabilities or SEN attended public schools, around 7% of the total student population. These children are more vulnerable to verbal and physical violence, a fact that highlights how essential it is to create a school environment where every child feels safe, respected, and included. This context highlighted the importance of creating a safe, engaging, and respectful learning environment. (11)

Gradually, we organized our visit to the 2nd Special School of Patras. We worked with young children with various intellectual disabilities, developmental disorders and psychosocial and emotional difficulties. The visit began with introductions, as it was important to gain the children's trust. We then explained our group's objective, our research project, and the competition in simple and concise language, since, according to Mrs. Tasakou, it is very important to keep their attention actively engaged. The general goal of the visit was to explain to the children basic techniques we used in our laboratory, such as centrifugation, and to help them understand the structure of the cell.

Soon, we started a simple experiment in which the children themselves participated. We poured honey into a transparent glass, then water, and finally oil. This created three distinct layers. We then explained how the layers remain separated due to the different densities of the substances. We went on to tell them that this phenomenon is often utilized in the lab to separate various components from a sample; for example, the components of blood. We explained that this is done thanks to a technique called "centrifugation." Some of the children had difficulty grasping the concepts we presented, but with the help of the teachers who were present and by having the children repeat the experiment themselves, they began to understand the concept better.

After explaining how centrifugation is used to separate the components of blood, we transitioned to discussing blood cells, which naturally led us to explore the structure of cells.

To help them better visualize the structure and functions of cells, we prepared drawings of houses with many rooms and began to explain that just like a house has many rooms with different purposes, a cell also has many organelles and structures with various functions. This analogy excited them, and some of the more talkative children started asking us questions. We call this educational approach the "BioHome: The Cell Home Project". You can find more info on our contributions page.

Finally, we explained that multicellular organisms, like humans, are made up of many different cells that work together to perform various actions, just like a city is made up of many different types of buildings that serve different functions. As a closing activity, we gave them coloring pages of the different types of cells they had learned about.

This visit moved us deeply. We saw the faces of the young children, full of innocence and curiosity, watching us attentively, trying in their own way to understand everything we were presenting. Children with Down syndrome, autism and other special needs taught us through their behavior what effort, acceptance, and authenticity truly mean. Some were outgoing and friendly from the first moment, while others were more hesitant. However, as time passed, they relaxed and approached us warmly.

Seeing the effort they made, the attention and enthusiasm in their eyes, and knowing that many of these children have experienced or may face social exclusion in the future, we couldn't help but be deeply touched. It was an experience that moved us and reminded us how important it is to approach every child with respect, love, and genuine care.

In our efforts of reaching people with developmental differences and neurodiversities, we created an ADHD Friendly educational board game.

"SynBio Shuffle" is designed to make learning biology both fun and accessible, while explicitly addressing cognitive and attention-related barriers. Players answer biology questions and complete challenges to collect points, aiming to have the most cards by the end of the game. The questions are varied, including True/False, multiple-choice, open-ended, tongue twisters, and image-based prompts, which engage different learning styles and keep players motivated.

We created this game with inclusivity in mind, particularly for neurodiverse players such as those with ADHD. Short Speed Rounds every 5–10 cards help maintain focus and energy, while questions can be read aloud by a designated reader or volunteer to support those who process information better auditorily. Clear, structured gameplay reduces cognitive load, enabling all players to participate confidently and enjoyably. By combining variety, accessibility, and excitement, this game ensures that everyone can learn, succeed, and have fun together, creating an inclusive and empowering environment.

To read the instructions and view the game follow the link.

As a team, we had the opportunity to collaborate multiple times with the Defense of Refugee and Migrant Rights. During our second meeting, we focused on an educational activity designed for children, ages from 3 to 12, of migrant families, aiming not only to introduce them to the fascinating world of biology, but also to help them feel that science is open, inclusive, and accessible to everyone no matter their origin or background.

To promote inclusivity in science, we engaged the children in a series of hands-on, interactive activities. First, we introduced the basic principles of biology using simple, understandable language. Then, we guided them through basic concepts of Cell and Synthetic Biology using our BioHome: The Cell Home Project. This tangible, playful introduction helped make abstract scientific ideas feel more relatable.

In the second part of our visit, we conducted a simple DNA extraction experiment, simple, yet fascinating, adding a more interactive and exciting dimension to the session. Finally, we invited the children to express themselves through art by drawing different types of cells. While they painted, we explained how, just like people, not all cells are the same. Each type of cell has its own unique role, and only through cooperation can they create a healthy, functioning body.

Through this initiative, we sought to promote equality, inclusivity, and empowerment, showing that science knows no borders, languages, or origins and thus conveying a deeper message: diversity and collaboration lead to harmony, in both biology and society.

Our team participated in the Anti-Racist Festival, actively supporting the Movement for the Defense of Refugee and Migrant Rights. We contributed to organizing the festival and engaging directly with attendees, showing solidarity with the Movement's mission while exploring how barriers to participation in science and synthetic biology affect underrepresented groups. Many refugees and migrants face challenges such as limited access to education, language barriers, and lack of mentorship, which can prevent meaningful engagement with science. Through conversations and dialogue at the festival, we listened to their experiences, opinions, and values, identifying ways science outreach can be made more inclusive and culturally sensitive.

By participating in this event, we expanded access to science by introducing attendees to our work in synthetic biology in approachable ways, tailored to diverse backgrounds. We emphasized that science should be open and accessible.

Being part of an event with such a strong social and cultural character was a valuable experience for us. It allowed us to better understand the challenges and needs of refugees and migrants, while also promoting the message that science, like society, should be inclusive, open, and accessible to all.

As part of our outreach activities, our team had the privilege to visit "The Smile of the Child" organization in Aigio, a place dedicated to supporting and protecting children that have been abused, neglected and faced many challenges.

Our mission was simple, yet meaningful: to make science more accessible to children from less privileged families, spark their curious minds and show them that they can never be excluded from opportunities to learn, explore and dream.

We conducted a simple DNA extraction experiment using household materials, demonstrating that science can be both exciting and accessible without the need for advanced laboratory equipment. The children actively participated, asked questions, and expressed their curiosity about what DNA is and why it is important.

We believe deeply that science and art are interconnected, and that art can make science more relatable and easier to grasp. With this in mind, we invited the children to draw, giving them the freedom to express themselves through creativity.

We often hear that "a picture says a thousand words," reflecting how images can convey complex ideas, emotions, and stories more effectively than text alone. Based on this principle, on the 12th of September 2025 our team organized a photo exhibition, "Revealing Sepsis, Rethinking Science," at the Cultural Center of Patras Agora Argyri.

The main goals were to highlight the human impact of sepsis worldwide and to promote inclusivity in science. We wanted to show the brutal truth about sepsis, how dangerous it is and how important early detection can be.

To achieve this, we displayed photos related to sepsis cases in people of different ethnicities, skin colors, genders, ages, etc. We also displayed portraits of various scientists of different ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, neurodivergencies and disabilities highlighting that despite these differences these people were all able to strive into the demanding field of science.

By combining visual storytelling with educational context, we made both scientific and health information accessible to a broad audience, including those who might find traditional text-heavy formats less approachable.

As part of our mission to promote science through meaningful community engagement, our team co-organized a blood donation event along with "Fleva Zois", a local volunteer team dedicated to supporting patients in need of blood transfusions.

The event took place at Patras University, an easily accessible location, intentionally chosen to reduce barriers such as travel difficulties, time constraints, and socioeconomic diversity, encouraging participation from a broad segment of the community.

During the donation our team members made their first public appearance introducing "iGEM Patras" and the iGEM competition. Through educational material we raised awareness about sepsis, its causes, symptoms, and the urgent need for early detection and treatment.

This event not only helped address the urgent need for blood donations but also created a bridge between science, public health, and social responsibility.

On the 7th and 8th of May 2025, our team took part in the International Conference on Social Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation, held at the Conference and Cultural Centre of the University of Patras.

This international event brought together academics, professionals, and community representatives to discuss the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in creating sustainable solutions for society.

We presented "Aechmi" to an audience of different age groups, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and the feedback we received was extremely positive. We emphasized on its potential social impact, particularly in terms of inclusivity, accessibility, and public benefit.

One particularly meaningful encounter was with Mr. Dimitris Kanellopoulos, president of "Ifaistos", an athletic association for people with disabilities based in Patras. He explained how our patch could be beneficial to people with physical disabilities, who are more vulnerable to sepsis.

During the advancement of our project, there were many moments that reminded us how challenging it can be to be a working woman in today's world, especially when your field of expertise is STEM. Women in science and technology often face gender-based discrimination and biases, with their skills and contributions sometimes underestimated compared to those of their male colleagues.

Because our team is composed of a large percentage of women, we were able to easily empathize with the hardships that some of the women we interviewed or interacted with described. Their stories resonated deeply with our own experiences and highlighted the need for supportive spaces where these issues can be acknowledged and addressed.

Motivated by this realization, we decided to organize an online, free-of-charge discussion group dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a woman in today's scientific community. The female members of our team coordinated a Zoom meeting and invited women from diverse professional backgrounds and scientific branches. Together, we created an open space for sharing personal experiences, reflecting on challenges, and exchanging strategies for overcoming barriers.

In the inclusive spirit of our team, and with the goal of raising public awareness about sepsis, we decided to create a short video highlighting key moments from our interviews with patients. This video gives voice to women who felt neglected by the healthcare system.

It features three women of different ages, backgrounds, and life stories from around the world: Haley Vazquez, Marisa Jean Giachetti, and Christine Caron. Despite their differences, they all shared a devastatingly similar experience; facing a life-threatening medical emergency that was initially dismissed by healthcare professionals.

You can see the video here.