Team:Auckland New Zealand/Team

Rakesh Arul

Rakesh is in the second year of Chemical Engineering conjoint with Chemistry and Biology. He is interested in synthetic & systems biology and how they can be translated into improving human healthcare. He originally did undergraduate research in solid state chemistry and spectroscopy, so he is keen to learn more about biology from more experienced team members!

Olivia Fernandes

Olivia is a third year Biology and Environmental Science student. She is interested in industrial microbiology. Synthetic Biology enables her to be creative and also apply her knowledge and skills into a real world project. Outside of science, she is actively involved in parish life and community groups.

Abdirizak Warsame

Abdirizak studied biology at undergraduate level with an interest in microbiology and biochemistry. Abdirizak is always willing to learn and meet like-minded people and have accomplished both these by joining the iGEM team.

Jessica Chiang

Jessica is enthusiastic about synthetic biology and is an environmentally conscious individual. She engaged in research and designed the logo. She hopes the synthetic biology can bring in a new perspective in the manufacturing industry and will not hesitate to learn more about the link between synthetic biology and the environmental equilibrium.

Jonathan Liu

Jonathan is a third year biological science student with an interest in synthetic biology. He is in charge of the team and liaises with academic staff and sponsors.

Daniel Neuberger

Daniel is a third year biomedical student. An eager individual, he was the capable person who underwent the beaten and weathered path of securing sponsors.

Professor Richard Gardner – Project supervisor

Richard Gardner played a vital part in the project, assisting us with the interpretation of the literature as well as aiding in the gene designs. His expertise and bright attitude guided the project along through the tough times.

Dr Klaus Bernd Lehnert – Project advisor

Klaus Lehnert aided us in thinking broadly about the project. To not be burden down by the complications before you have even started. His open minded approach revealed to us ways we haven’t thought of.

Mr Keith David Richards – Lab supervisor

Keith Richards, knowledgeable and skilled, taught us the essence of what it means to work in the lab and enjoy it. Patient and guiding, he helped us bring the project from paper to reality.

Dr Siouxsie Wiles – Project advisor

Siouxsie Wiles provided us with knowledge and guidance regarding the project, bringing the fears of the project not working to an end.

Dick Bellamy, with his trove and knowledge and experience, showed us how to walk through the harsh environment of sponsorship with style.