Before the team began experimenting, all members completed online lab safety training. Each participant watched instructional videos covering topics such as pipette usage and cell culturing, and then passed a short quiz administered by our team leader.

Following iGEM Safety Policies, we restricted our research to Pichia pastoris GS115— all of which are considered relatively safe for research purposes. No bacteria were released into the environment.

In addition to online training, we participated in offline safety sessions led by our biosafety committee.

Our biosafety committee consists of two research teachers who:

• Monitor safe working conditions in the lab
• Oversee the disposal of Petri dishes and liquid waste
• Ensure proper sanitation practices
• Provide professional safety training to all team members
• Verify that the lab is left clean and safe after experiments

We received safety training on the following topics:

• Lab access rules and responsible individuals
• Differences between biosafety levels
• Use of biosafety equipment (e.g., biosafety cabinets)
• Good microbial techniques
• Disinfection and sterilization procedures
• Emergency protocols
• Transport and handling of biological materials
• Physical and personnel biosecurity
• Safe use of dual-use research and experiments of concern
• Data biosecurity
• Chemical, fire, and electrical safety

• Open Bench:
  General molecular biology procedures, such as plasmid preparation and enzyme digestion, were carried out on open benches under standard laboratory conditions.
• Laminar Flow Hood:
  Sterile techniques, including cell plating and media handling, were performed in a laminar flow hood to ensure aseptic conditions.

• Escherichia coli DH5α
• Pichia pastoris GS115
• Bacillus Subtilis
• Escherichia coli K-12

• Accident reporting procedure including emergency contact numbers and the responsible instructor
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): lab coats, gloves, safety glasses, and masks where necessary

• No running or sudden movements in the lab
• No food or drink in the lab
• All experimental waste disposed of in designated bins for sterilization
• Pipettes sanitized after use
• All equipment used according to manufacturer manuals
• Experiments conducted only with PPE
• Hands washed upon lab entry; suitable clothing worn at all times

Throughout the entire wet lab process, no accidents or safety hazards occurred. Although our experiments faced challenges, strict adherence to safety protocols ensured a safe working environment.

We plan to maintain these high biosafety standards in future projects.