Registration FAQ

Registration for iGEM 2006 is underway.  If you are interested in organizing a team, please contact the organizers at iGEM@mit.edu

== When does registration for iGEM 2006 close? ==

The final day for registration is March 31, 2006.  However, institutions that intend to register for 2006 are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

== Is there a web form where I can register? ==

Not at this time.  Just email the organizers at iGEM@mit.edu to start the process.

== What is the iGEM schedule? == 

The program formally begins in May with the Teachers Conference and closes with the Jamboree in November.  The exact start and stop dates are variable depending on the team or institution requirements.

== What are the qualifications for entry? == 

There are two categories that institutions can select.

=== Structured Competition ===

The first category is requires institution to assemble a formal iGEM team and to meet minimum participation standards.  Aspects of the competition will judged and prizes awarded.  In order to be considered for the structured competition, teams must:

* Be supervised by a qualified principal investigator
* Be based at an accredited college or university, with access to laboratory facilities
* Send a representative to the iGEM Teachers Conference in May, 2006, at MIT (exact dates TBD)
* Post regular updates of strategies and progress of their projects on the iGEM wiki
* Freely share all materials developed for the competition
* Coordinate and support travel for team members to attend the iGEM Jamboree, date TBD, at MIT
* Make a verbal presentation of length 10-15 minutes at the Jamboree
* Prepare a poster presentation for the Jamboree
* Have fun!

=== Unstructured Competition ===

There are no rules or requirements, although you are welcome to contact the organizers if you have questions or concerns.  Or not.  You decide.

== What does MIT provide iGEM teams? == 

MIT coordinates the iGEM competition, provides space and facilities for the conference and jamboree, maintains tools and databases used to create projects, provides Biobrick construct assemblies to teams, and organizes publicity.  This year, an ambassador program has been launched to provide additional support for teams, in whatever ways assistance is necessary and reasonable.

== How should teams be structured? ==

We suggest building diversity using a 50-50 guideline: 50% male, 50% female, 50% graduate, 50% undergraduate, 50% biological background, 50% non-biological, and so on.  While these ratios are not required, the experience is enriched by including a range of aptitudes, experiences, and skills.  We suggest advertising for team members at your institution, since this is likely to generate a large and diverse pool of applicants.

== How much does it cost to participate? == 

This can vary widely by institution.

Costs include:

* stipends to students, if any
* reagents and supplies – variable depending on project
* travel support for the Teachers Conference and Jamboree – dependent on physical proximity to MIT
* miscellaneous expenses

== Does iGEM have money available to give me? ==

Not directly.  But we will assist you in finding support.  Contact the organizers for more information.

== I am not affiliated with a university or college.  Can I still participate? ==

Absolutely.  If you are located near a participating institution, you could contact the team organizer and apply for a position on the team.  Even if the team cannot accept you as a full time member, they may still permit an internship of some kind.  Alternatively, you could still participate in the unstructured competition, which has no rules.  What you accomplish in this category is entirely up to you or your group.  Finally, you can contact the organizers and tell them how you think you might be able to contribute.