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Team:UCL/Humans/Team
From 2014.igem.org
Team
Web and Communications Team
Meet The Team
Alberto Aparicio
PhD in Science and Technology Studies (2nd Year).
I have conducted research in the life sciences for the development of new drugs as an undergraduate student of Microbiology and a graduate student of Biochemistry in the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. Since then I shifted to the social aspects of science, having worked in innovation management consultancy and as strategic advisor for the Colombian government in R&D and international affairs.The experience here complemented with an MPhil degree in Technology Policy at the University of Cambridge. At the moment, I am a PhD student at UCL’s Science and Technology Studies department, planning to study innovation policies related to synthetic biology and alternative knowledge production regimes such as open innovation, Do-It-Yourself biology, and crowd science. I am involved in the human practice side of the iGEM competition. My hobbies include running, creative writing, and playing with my dog (a Pug).
Lewis Brayshaw
PhD Cancer Biology (2nd Year).
I am a 2nd year PhD student investigating the roles of cadherin adhesion molecules in multiple stages of cancer progression. My research is interdisciplinary in nature, using a combination of in vitro cell culture, embryology and microfluidic techniques. I aim to apply my experience to accelerate the experimental work of UCL’s iGEM team, but I also look forward to learning from others with better skills in human practice and public engagement. I have always been excited by synbio’s ambitious goals and I am entertaining the idea of a career in this field, following the completion of my PhD. I’m a lover of music and being outdoors, but this summer (when I’m not working on iGEM) you’ll find me glued to TV following the World Cup.
Adam Denyer
MRes Synthetic Biology (1st Year).
I am currently undertaking a one-year Research Masters degree in synthetic biology having previously worked in the software engineering industry. I am especially interested in how the knowledge I have gained in these fields can be applied to synthetic biological systems. Once I have completed my degree, I aim to continue working in the synthetic biology arena, in conjunction with local 'DIY-bio' groups, and hope to continue competing in future iGEM competitions. Outside of my studies, I have a range of interests including wildlife conservation, photography, sports, films, and restoring classic cars and motorcycles.
Yan-Kay Ho
MSci Natural Sciences (4th Year, completed Jun ‘14); PhD Interdisciplinary Biosciences (starts Oct ’14).
My undergraduate degree focussed on genetics, evolution, and development, but for my postgraduate degree, I hope to study biological systems in a more holistic manner, with particular interests in complex emergent behaviour. I am especially interested in synthetic biology as it can provide many innovative solutions for issues in our present day society. As a member of the UCL iGEM 2014 team, I am primarily involved in web and communications, public engagement, and computational modelling. Beyond my studies, I enjoy origami, playing violin, sci-fi and fantasy fiction, baking, and photography.
David Jackson
PhD Biochemical Engineering (1st Year).
I’m a first year PhD student in Biochemical Engineering. My research involves developing a microscale down perfusion reactor for adherent cell culture. I’m interested in synthetic biology basically because I think being able to modify an organism to produce something is rather awesome!! I have a fondness for translatable and impactful science, and so one day I hope to have my own company producing therapeutics at pilot scale for clinical trials. Outside of science, I am a MASSIVE animal fan! I have kept and bred big pythons and boa constrictors, kept marine fish, held a baby crocodile, been bit by a skunk and have been rattle snake searching in California.
Sohaila Jalail
BSc (3rd Year, completed Jun '14).
I have recently completed my third year as a BSc Biotechnology undergraduate at UCL. My degree has been a fusion of biochemistry and biochemical engineering modules and I have therefore learned about how the lab science translates on industrial scales. I have always appreciated the applications of biotechnology and synthetic biology is definitely one of the most fascinating and versatile fields; this is why I got involved with iGEM. I enjoy the creative aspects of life including dance, art and drama, and especially love when they can be applied to science. My passion for biology is matched only by my passion for playing football. I am also the adventurous sort and enjoy new experiences such as that of being on the iGEM team!
Kevin Keyaert
MSc Environment, Science and Society (1st Year).
As a social scientist, I am part of the MSc programme Environment, Science and Society (UCL Department of Geography), which explores the changing relationship between nature and society, and looks at controversial issues regarding the role of (scientific) knowledge in environmental governance. My previous studies led to an undergraduate degree in Political and Social Sciences and a Masters degree in Comparative and International Politics, both at the University of Leuven, Belgium. With UCL iGEM 2014, I will mainly focus on aspects of human practice by making use of conceptual frameworks from the social sciences that examine synthetic biology and UCL iGEM’s project in a comprehensive manner. At the same time, the team will be a central element of my dissertation. In the future, I hope to work on science, innovation and/or sustainable development policies within an international context. Other interests of mine are hiking, cooking, travel, tennis, and learning languages.
Miriam Leon
PhD Systems and Synthetic Biology (2nd Year).
I am a 2nd year PhD student in Systems and Synthetic Biology. My background is in biology, bioinformatics and systems biology and now I am focusing on building robust designs of genetic systems. Synthetic biology excites me with its endless potential to change the world! I am hoping to apply the skills I have gained to the modelling side of the UCL iGEM 2014 team while also learning all about engaging the public and the industry. When I’m not doing science, I am either travelling, running around the nearest park, looking for opportunities to spend time by the sea, or just being cute on my own.
Tanel Ozdemir
PhD Synthetic Biology (2nd Year).
My background is in human biology and regenerative medicine but I am now focused on investigating the potential use of synthetic biology for microbiome engineering and disease prevention/treatment. Within UCL iGEM 2014 team, my roles include BioBrick design, BioBrick characterisation, and public engagement.
Rob Stanley
PhD Mathematical Biochemistry (3rd Year).
I am currently studying for a PhD in Mathematical Biochemistry, investigating the properties of intracellular signalling in G proteins and phospholipid modifying enzymes. My interdisciplinary approach has followed on from a degree in mathematics and time spent working in the pharmaceutical industry. Synthetic biology excites me most as a method of exploring new possibilities and contrasting these with processes that have evolved naturally – I hope to develop these ideas in a future academic career. To the 2014 UCL iGEM team I will be bringing my existing skills in mathematical modelling, as well as those I have developed in public engagement – communicating with the public about my research, through "science busking", art workshops, and comedy routines!
Shahin Heshmatifar
PhD Biochemical Engineering (? Year).
I am a student at UCL studying towards a PhD in Biochemical Engineering. Previously, I studied a Masters degree at UCL in Biochemical Engineering and an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences at University of Westminster. I had followed iGEM distantly during my undergraduate degree, and found its concept and deliverables very interesting. I have been in UCL’s iGEM team in previous years and have enjoyed the experience, I therefore decided to participate in the iGEM project this year, to apply and enhance my knowledge in molecular and synthetic biology.
Return to: Meet The Team, Part 1: the Undergrads
Continue on to: Supervisors and Advisers
Photography by Maysie Milbourn
Meet The Team, Part 1: the Undergrads
Daniel El Primero de la Torre
BSc Biotechnology (1st Year); conceived the Azo Dye Project.
I am currently studying a BSc Biotechnology degree, having just completed my first year. I joined iGEM because I find genetic engineering extremely interesting and with a huge range of potential applications, especially with a synthetic biology approach. It is also a great opportunity for me to gain experience in the different elements that have to be brought forward in order to successfully carry out a project. As I have only just completed my first year, my roles within the team will be to support those who are more experienced in their duties, trying to learn as much as possible on the way. In the future, I would like to take further studies like an MSc or PhD, probably related to synthetic biology or genetic engineering. Outside science, my main interests are music, being able to play several instruments, and nature.
Maurice Bertrand
BEng Biochemical Engineering (2nd Year).
As a 2nd Year Biochemical Engineering student, my degree focuses mainly on bioprocess design and optimization, with an emphasis on high value therapeutic production and purification. I have a strong interest in the technical aspects of iGEM and am excited by Synthetic Biology’s vast breadth of theoretical applications. The areas of Public Engagement and Web Design also appeal to me. Within iGEM, I hope to develop strong interpersonal skills and to gain knowledge on effective team management. As a less experienced team member, I plan to contribute mainly by supporting my well-practiced teammates in their efforts to maximize our chances at succeeding in the competition and providing the best learning experience for everyone.
Georgia Bondy
BSc Natural Sciences (2nd Year).
At the moment I am studying BSc Natural Sciences and have just completed my second year; specialising in organic chemistry and neuroscience. Prior to this degree, I undertook a module in ‘Genetics and Health Issues’ at the Open University. In 2011, I achieved a regional finalist position for the UK in the Google International Science fair, and I currently work in the Neural Computation Lab in the Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research as an Electron Micrograph analyst. In the future, I am interested in undertaking a PhD in biophysics or SynBio. In addition, I compose music, do some graphic design, and bake delicious things (or so I've been told).
Joy Faucher
MEng Biochemical Engineering with Chemical Engineering (2nd Year).
I am interested in applying and integrating my knowledge of bioprocessing to an epidemiological context and harnessing this opportunity with Synbio to open up an approach to potential future healthcare solutions. Previously, I have worked on reviewing novel biomarker strategies for the diagnosis of tuberculosis with the French Institute for Research and Development. Aside from my studies, I have a growing interest in cognitive science, enjoy playing music and sports, and have been part of creative/entrepreneurial challenges. Most of all, I enjoy making things!
Edoardo Gianni
BSc Biotechnology (1st Year).
As a first year biotechnology student, I wanted to jump into iGEM as soon as I got into university. In my last two years of high school, I grew fascinated by synthetic biology as a powerful tool to work on the inner code of living organisms. I became involved in the DIYbio community, where I found sources of knowledge otherwise inaccessible to me, which sparked my interest even more. I thus like to call myself a biohacker, although I have only been able to kill some bioluminescent algae so far. My role within the team will be the official jester, master of 3D printing, and best Italian scientist. I hope that by taking part in iGEM I will finally be able to do myself what I have been reading and reading about, building on what has been done so far, and learning the key skills to help found new teams in the future. When I am not in the lab you will probably find me on a fencing piste, jumping and smiling, or in the UCL Makespace, jumping and smiling.
Sanjay Joshi
BEng Biochemical Engineering (2nd Year).
I currently study Biochemical Engineering, having just completed my second year. The vast range of potential applications and recent developments in synthetic biology enthrals me. iGEM offers me the opportunity to further my interest and gain experience in the field of synthetic biology, as well as acquire the necessary skills to work in a successful and productive interdisciplinary environment throughout the project. Biochemical Engineering serves as an ideal platform to understand the science and function of our iGEM project, as well as scope its potential industrial applications. My future goals are to complete further education in Bioinformatics or Bioprocessing, along with expanding my expertise in business and economics.
Behzad Karkaria
BSc Biomedical Sciences (2nd Year).
I am currently studying BSc Biomedical Sciences at King's College London; my degree covers a wide range of topics with a focus on gene cloning and cell biology. UCL have been kind enough to offer me a position on their iGEM 2014 team, an experience which I will hopefully use to found a team at my own university. I am excited by the potential of synthetic biology with a specific interest in its application within the medical field, I am intent upon directing my career pathway towards this field. Outside my studies, I play guitar, write as well as watch comedy, and play Ultimate Frisbee.
Ning Lu
MEng Biochemical with Chemical Engineering (2nd year).
After I was first told the finer details of iGEM competition from a former team member, last year, I could not stop thinking about what a great idea it is to have students from multi-disciplinary backgrounds to complete a project that they have decided between themselves. Therefore, here I am in the UCL iGEM 2014 team, ready for any tough challenges. I have recently finished my second year in Biochemical Engineering. With a moderate amount of lab experience and my own fascination, I am looking forward to helping out in the lab, as well as with public engagement. Dancing and doodling has always had a part in my life and I rather enjoy performing on a stage after my first stage experience at 6. Beside all these, I still believe a game of DOTA never hurts!
Lewis Iain Moffat
MEng Biochemical Engineering and Bioprocess Management (1st Year).
I have just completed my first year of a combined Bachelors and Masters programme in Biochemical Engineering and Bioprocess Engineering (MEng). I am absolutely fascinated by synthetic biology and its infinite range of applications; as such, I am really looking forward to being a part of the UCL iGEM 2014 team. In the future, I hope to complete a further Masters or Doctorate in bioinformatics or biomedical engineering and go on to work in the venture capital industry. Aside from my degree, my academic passions also stretch to computer science, literature, and economics. All of which I have had the opportunity to study at a higher level. Combined with my love of sports, video games, science fiction and fantasy, I hope to bring all of my passion and energy to our iGEM team so that we have the best project possible.
Pamela Niem
BSc Biomedical Sciences (2nd Year).
I am currently studying for a Biomedical Sciences BSc and have just completed my second year, specialising in integrative physiology and anatomy. I became interested in synthetic biology due to its huge variety of applications, with my interest particularly focusing on the development of innovative methods for treating disease. In the UCL iGEM 2014 team, I am involved with human practice, public engagement, art/design, and assisting with wet lab. Other than science, I love playing the guitar and piano, singing my feelings, and eating brownies.
Continue on to: Meet The Team, Part 2: the Postgrads
Photography by Maysie Milbourn
Supervisors and Advisers
Supervisors
Darren Nesbeth
Lecturer in Synthetic and Molecular Biology; Supervisor; overall co-ordinator of iGEM at UCL.
Lecturer in Synthetic Biology at the Department of Biochemical Engineering, who has been responsible for overseeing the iGEM competition at UCL for many years! Loves to eat porridge and watch vintage VHS films when away from iGEM planning.
Advisers
Philipp Boeing
MSc Computer Science (1st Year); Human Practice Supervisor.
I have been leading iGEM teams at UCL since 2011, including last year’s Plastic Republic team. This year, I principally supervise team Spotless Mind on Human Practice, as well as general iGEM best practice. Apart from iGEM, I spend my time on SynBioSoc and DIYbio. Diversity!
Alex Bates
BSc Neuroscience (2nd Year).
I am a BSc Neuroscience student and a member of the UCL iGEM 2013 'Spotless Mind' team. I am returning as an advisor for the 2014 team, primarily focusing on project direction, organisation, human practice, and just generally trying to spread the iGEM love. I have a lot of faith in this year's project as a pragmatic response to a very real environmental problem. After next year, I am moving on to an MSc in Synthetic Biology or a PhD in Neuroscience, as I am most interested in trying to see how one might blend these two disparate worlds.
Andy Cheng
BSc Immunology and Infection (2nd Year).
I will be in my final year in Immunology and Infection. I believe synthetic biology has great potential in tackling issues in realms such as medical, environmental, and industrial. By joining iGEM, I hope to gain a deeper appreciation into the growing field of synthetic biology. As a member of the previous UCL iGEM team, my role in the 2014 team is mainly advisory in lab work and human practice. Along with my studies, I enjoy playing the piano and squash.
Kai Cheng Kiew
BSc Biochemistry (3rd Year, completed Jun '14; MRes Cancer Biology, starts Oct ’14).
I recently completed my BSc Biochemistry, with a structural and molecular biology focus. My favourite thing about iGEM is that it encourages students to have full control on their project, whilst having fun and making friends across the globe. In the near future, I am taking on an MRes in Cancer Biology. Besides having a passion for food, I am a wanderlust traveller and love the piano.
Oran Maguire
Bsc Human Sciences (3rd Year).
Having just completed my final year at UCL, I am planning to work for a year and consider my options for further study. My degree stood on a hairline between medical and social science. I joined last year's team in order to further my interest in neuroscience; but in the event, iGEM gave me the opportunity to exercise my more creative and practical skills, and revealed to me an entirely new approach toward understanding the mechanics of life, and the opening of a new area in scientific practice. It goes without saying that I was very keen to assist in this team's efforts.
Return to: Meet The Team, Part 1: the Undergrads or Meet The Team, Part 2: the Postgrads
Photography by Maysie Milbourn
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