International Rational Genome Design Contest

International Rational Genome Design Contest (GenoCon) is the first contest of its kind, offering participants the chance to compete in technologies for rational genome design. To succeed, participants must make effective use of genomic and protein data contained in RIKEN SciNetS database clusters to design DNA sequences that improve plant physiology. For their part, participants are constrained to so-called bioinformatics activities, designing DNA sequences from genomic-related information in a browser-based programming environment provided by RIKEN SciNeS. RIKEN and other research institutes are then responsible for inserting these DNA sequences into genomes and evaluating experimentally the functions of the resulting Arabidopsis thaliana plants.

A new web-based framework for collaboration in synthetic biology, referred to as “open-optimization research”, is provided to GenoCon participants to help make effective use of DNA information resources in creating improved bio-resources. Genome design theories and programs submitted by participants from all over the world will be compiled within RIKEN SciNeS and shared under a Creative Commons Public License, contributing to advancements in biomass engineering and other fields of Green Bioｔechnology.

GenoCon also offers, in addition to categories for Japanese and international researchers and university students, a category specifically for high-school students. Just as ROBOCON (Robot Contest), GenoCon thus provides opportunities for young people to learn about the most cutting-edge science with a sense of pleasure, bringing intellectual excitement to the field of Life Science and supporting a future generation of scientists.

• GenoCon Press Release