POLICY ADVOCACY
→ Bringing students to UN policy meetings to discuss synthetic biology

💬 Introduction

Synthetic biology is a constantly evolving discipline. Policymakers face the difficult challenge of drafting regulations that ensure its responsible use without hindering technological progress.
The After iGEM Delegate Program aimed to bridge the gap between scientists and regulators by empowering students to engage with policymakers, contribute their perspectives, and advocate for informed legislation.

I led this project from concept to execution—coordinating logistics, preparing delegates for high-level discussions, and ensuring their contributions were impactful. Through this initiative, we empowered young scientists to participate in United Nations meetings, fostering meaningful dialogue to help shape the future of synthetic biology governance.

💡 Concept
Connect young scientists with policymakers

🎯 Goals
Empower students to advocate for responsible policies
Foster collaboration between science and diplomacy

⚠️ Considerations
Easily communicate scientific research
Ensure students are prepared to engage in policy
Navigate complex international regulatory frameworks

✅ Solution
A structured program providing policy training and opportunities for students to present their insights at high-level meetings

🗓️ Program Coordination

This program took me completely out of my comfort zone.
For each event, I immersed myself in protocols to ensure our delegates would be well-prepared to participate. I launched global calls for applications, conducted interviews, and carefully selected students who aligned with our vision.

Once the team was assembled, I organized remote training sessions with community experts to equip them with the knowledge and skills they needed to navigate diplomatic discussion. On the logistical side, I managed a budget of approximately $15,000 to oversee travel arrangements and accommodations to give our delegates the best possible experience.

Each event required around four months of preparation, following a structured process that was iterated over time. With each cycle, improvements such as additional training sessions and expert consultations were incorporated to better support our participants.

🎯 Strategic Selection
Global call for applications
Remote interviews
Candidates selected based on their profile and event location

🖥 Virtual Training
Introductory calls with delegation
Remote sessions with community experts

✈️ Logistical Planning
Manage budget of ~$15,000 per event
Arrange flights, accommodations and other travel needs

🔄 Continuous Improvement
Iterations on training materials and general logistics

🌍 Impact

The impact of the program continues to grow beyond the initial experience. From representing their countries at global conventions to speaking at high-profile international meetings, our delegates have become active contributors to the intersection of science and policy.

Several delegates have gone on to pursue careers and further studies in science and governance, applying the skills and insights they gained. Some have even taken on influential roles within international regulatory bodies, contributing directly to shaping policies that affect the future of synthetic biology. Others have remained closely connected to the iGEM community, taking leadership roles in safety, security, and human practices initiatives, ensuring that responsible innovation remains at the core of research projects worldwide.

📰 Testimonials

"The Delegate Program was pivotal in opening that door for me, allowing me to understand how global policy works."
— Aiswarya Prasad, COP 14


“I think it is very important for scientists to get involved in policy making, because who is going to listen to us if we are not there talking?”
— Janina Lüders, COP 14


"My experience at the 2017 Biological Weapons Convention altered the entire course of my academic and professional life."
— Chris Isaac, BWC 2017
.

🌟 Closing Remarks

I successfully coordinated the After iGEM Delegate Program and brought young scientists to the global policy stage.
In a few years of work, I established the foundation of a structured framework to select and train participants and ensure they were prepared to engage in high-level discussions.

• Comprehensive training program featuring expert-led sessions from community experts

• Smooth logistics process that supported international delegates across multiple events.

• Clear documentation outlining best practices for future program iterations

🎯 Deliverables
17 students attended 4 UN meetings
Delegation program framework
Logistics coordination for international events

☀️ Wrap up
Personal lessons