Medal Criteria

Criterion

Description

Competition Deliverables

Project Attributions

On the attribution page of our Wiki, we included a detailed description of the roles and tasks carried out by all the members of our team as well as advisors, instructors, PI, and external collaborators during this project. In this section, we show our appreciation for their contribution to our project.
Read more on our Attributions page

Contribution

As a contribution to future generations of iGEM Teams, we developed and documented a detailed, accessible protocol for quantifying tellurite reduction in bacterial cultures using a DDTC-based spectrophotometric assay. Tellurite is both toxic and rare, and few standardized, user-friendly methods exist for its measurement in biological systems. Building on the method described by Turner et al. (1992), we optimized it for day-to-day iGEM use, creating a rapid, low-cost, and reproducible workflow complete with calibration steps for converting absorbance into tellurite concentration. As no previous iGEM project has focused primarily on tellurite, this “all-in-one” guide offers a practical starting point for exploring tellurite–biology interactions, pathway validation, or strain comparison.
Read more on our Contribution page

Criterion

Description

Engineering Success

Over the course of several months in the lab, we iteratively followed the design–build–test–learn (DBTL) cycle to refine our system. We first focused on cloning various rare earth element (REE) binding proteins with the addition of the DogCatcher module. This was followed by optimization of the DogTag–DogCatcher incubation conditions, the introduction of washing steps, and the establishment of a standardized buffer procedure. We then optimized the Curli-to-BP ratio and determined the most relevant REE concentration range for testing. This stepwise approach allowed us to develop a robust and reproducible protocol, enabling confident evaluation of our system and a deeper understanding of BP–REE interactions in solution.
Read more on our Engineering page

Human Practices

Our project is driven by environmental, social, and scientific values, aiming to reduce the ecological and societal impacts of rare earth elements (REE) and tellurium use through sustainable resource management, education, and innovation. To ensure our work aligns with real-world needs, we engaged with researchers, industry experts, and entrepreneurs who provided insights into feasibility, market realities, and responsible innovation. These discussions guided the development of scalable, safe biotechnological solutions targeting relevant waste streams and promoting circular economy principles. Our system has the potential to enhance REE recycling, lessen dependence on harmful mining, and raise awareness of sustainable practices among industry and the public.
Read more on our Human practices page

Criterion

Description

Best Education

From the very beginning we set our sights high. We designed and delivered a bold series of multiplatform and intergenerational events with one clear goal: to reach and engage the widest possible audience. Our approach was intentional and inclusive, welcoming families, children, adults and even grandparents into spaces of curiosity, dialogue and discovery - from a public museum exhibition to the heart of a children's hospital. Rather than offering ready-made answers we sparked questions. We encouraged participants to think critically, to explore nuance and to engage in meaningful conversations. Our events didn’t just inform, they empowered. By fostering open debate and resisting the urge to simplify complex issues we helped nurture a more thoughtful, participatory democracy. This is education at its most vital: expansive, inclusive and deeply human.
Read more on our Education page

Best Entrepreneurship

Our breakthrough synthetic biology technology enables in-house rare earth element (REE) recovery directly within existing recycling pipelines - turning waste into profit. By integrating our REE-extraction service, recyclers unlock new revenue streams through REE oxide sales while advancing a truly circular and sustainable economy. Using engineered binding proteins optimized for specific lanthanides, our modular biorecycling process efficiently captures REE from e-waste flow streams that are currently discarded. Backed by a multidisciplinary team spanning biology, engineering, and business, and by partnerships across Europe and Switzerland, we’re building a scalable, market-ready solution to redefine e-waste recycling driving innovation, sustainability, and profitability together.
Read more on our Entrepreneurship page

Best Part collection

With our design, we exploit the polymeric nature of curli fibers to make them into scaffolds for our binding proteins, thus maximising surface exposure for optimal REE capturing. The innovation of implementing a DogTag-DogCatcher binding system to generate a stable dual-modular protein reflects the fine bioengineering skills of our team, building a solid part collection that can inspire innovative designs for future iGEM teams.
Read more on our Part collection page
Part collection repository