The University of Houston is recruiting undergraduate and graduate students for its 2026 iGEM team, led by Professor Sergey Shevkoplyas from the Department of Biomedical Engineering. iGEM is the world's leading synthetic biology competition, where students design, build, and test innovative biological systems. The 2026 project will focus on engineering probiotics to extend lifespan, specifically by modifying E. coli Nissle 1917 to deliver longevity-promoting compounds to the model organism C. elegans. This research serves as a proof-of-concept for future precision microbiome therapies.

Students joining the team will gain hands-on experience in synthetic biology, microbiome engineering, molecular biology, and computational modeling. The project offers opportunities to work with CRISPR, cloning, strain engineering, and model organism assays. Additional roles include computational modeling (bioinformatics, R/Python, metabolic modeling), wiki development and design (HTML/CSS, scientific illustration), and human practices (ethics, policy, and public outreach). The team aims to present their findings at the iGEM Grand Jamboree in Paris in November, with travel contingent on successful fundraising.

Applicants should be motivated undergraduate or graduate students at the University of Houston with interests or skills in molecular biology, microbiology, computational modeling, or related areas. Experience with C. elegans, bioinformatics, programming, or science communication is a plus. No specific GPA or language requirements are mentioned. Funding for travel is not guaranteed and depends on team fundraising efforts.

To apply, interested students should comment on the LinkedIn post or send a Direct Message to Professor Sergey Shevkoplyas on LinkedIn to receive full application details. The application deadline is March 3, 2026.