Inspiring the Future of Science: STEAM Vision Foundation Partners with iGEM Team from IISC Bangalore and Ladakh Science Foundation

The STEAM Vision Foundation is proud to have collaborated with the iGEM team and Ladakh Science Foundation (LSF) to introduce synthetic and computational biology to students across India. Together, we conducted a series of online and offline educational programs, ensuring that students from diverse regions, including Ladakh, Srinagar, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and beyond, had the opportunity to engage with modern scientific advancements.

Our goal was to break down the complexities of synthetic biology and make it accessible to students of all backgrounds, empowering them to explore new ideas, build essential skills, and participate in ideathons focused on creating sustainable solutions.

Programs for All Ages: Making Science Fun and Accessible

1. Beyond the Microscope (Grades 9–12):

This specialized program offered an immersive experience for high school students. Conducted both online and offline, “Beyond the Microscope” focused on hands-on learning, helping students explore the wonders of biology beyond textbooks. Participants used tools like PyMOL to visualize protein and DNA structures and developed skills in computational biology, gaining real-world insights into the field of synthetic biology.

2. BioMania (Grades 5–8):

To inspire curiosity in younger students, we launched "BioMania"—a fun, interactive program where participants engaged in activities that made biology exciting. Through creative exercises, students were encouraged to think like scientists, fostering early enthusiasm for the life sciences.

Empowering Young Innovators Through the Tech-Bio Ideathon

One of the highlights of the collaboration was the Tech-Bio Ideathon, which invited college students to develop innovative solutions by blending technology with biology. We were especially thrilled to see significant participation from young women, highlighting the growing interest in STEM among female students.

Tsering Tashi, a scientist from ISRO and founder of the Ladakh Science Foundation, shared his thoughts on the ideathon:

“Synthetic biology is a field of immense potential. With advancements in artificial intelligence and medical sciences, there has never been a better time to explore tech-driven solutions. I commend the participants and organizing team for this inspiring initiative.”

This event provided students with a platform to create sustainable solutions while learning new skills, fostering creativity, and building connections within the scientific community.

Building Future Scientists and Innovators

As part of our mission to empower the next generation, STEAM Vision collaborated with the iGEM team to engage undergraduate students at IISc Bengaluru. Through hands-on projects, students explored both synthetic biology and engineering concepts, gaining practical experience with tools such as Python, Git, and command-line programming.

One of the major outcomes of this initiative was the development of BEPT—a tool designed to visualize protein electrostatics. This innovative project was made accessible through a public GitHub repository, encouraging further research and collaboration.

Promoting Inclusivity with Technology

At STEAM Vision, we believe that science and technology should be accessible to everyone. To support this vision, we introduced the Inclusivity Tool—a web accessibility plugin designed to improve the online experience for individuals with diverse needs.

This JavaScript-based tool offers the following features:

- Color Blindness Modes (Protanopia, Deuteranopia, Tritanopia, Achromatopsia)

- Low Vision Support (Magnification, high contrast themes)

- Dyslexia-Friendly Fonts (Using OpenDyslexic)

- ADHD-Friendly Focus Tools

- Epilepsy-Safe Modes (Minimizing visual triggers)

The Inclusivity Tool empowers developers to build more accessible websites, ensuring that online platforms are inclusive for users with visual impairments, learning differences, and neurological conditions.

A Shared Vision for a Better Future

Our partnership with the iGEM team from IISC Bangalore and Ladakh Science Foundation marks a significant step toward creating a more inclusive, science-driven future. Through programs like “Beyond the Microscope” and “BioMania,” and events such as the Tech-Bio Ideathon, we are inspiring students to embrace innovation and pursue careers in synthetic biology.

STEAM Vision Foundation remains committed to empowering students by equipping them with the skills they need to excel in the 21st century. By combining science, technology, and creativity, we aim to foster a new generation of problem-solvers and changemakers who will drive progress in India and beyond.

Together, we are building a future where education knows no boundaries, and every student, regardless of location or background, has the opportunity to dream big and make a difference.

Let’s continue this journey of collaboration and learning to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators!