Bilateral exchange in synthetic biology: experiences, challenges, and opportunities for training and research
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Synthetic biology and the emerging field of biomanufacturing provide new research concepts that should be incorporated into the training of the next generation of scientists. Key elements of synthetic biology are the standardisation, modularisation, and characterisation of biological parts. Defined parts can be assembled into functional transcription units to pathways of multiple units, chromosomes, and/or whole genomes. Here, we highlight the importance of global exchange and state-of-the-art training in the Global South to empower research and reduce the gap between countries. Based on initial seed funding, we established a multidisciplinary bilateral exchange program between Germany and Colombia, including lecture series, experimental workshops, and bilateral exchanges in training and research. The elements are adaptable and our hands-on courses can be carried out with limited resources while covering aspects of synthetic biology. Importantly, this initiative will allow early-career researchers to build an international network, opening up opportunities in research collaboration and paving the way for greater equity.
Source: Synthetic Biology
Authors: María del Carmen Sánchez Olmos, Martha Lorena Medina, Adán Andrés Ramírez Rojas, Nohora Angélica Millán Aldana, Paula Manuela Siaucho Unriza, Nicolas Oscar Londoño Sanchez, Valentina Florez Tellez, Victor Hugo Rua Lopez, Patricia del Portillo, Maryam Chaib De Mares, María Francisca Villegas-Torres, Daniel Schindler, María Mercedes Zambrano
Institutions: Heidelberg University, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Heidelberg University, Universidad Central, CorpoGen (Colombia), Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Universidad de Los Andes, Universidad de Los Andes, Philipps University of Marburg, Loewe Center for Synthetic Microbiology
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,250
OpenAlex ID: W7223459193
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