Prizes

Overall Winner

Awarded to the best submission in the program as evaluated by the judging panel based on the judging criteria.

Runner-Up

Awarded to the second best submission in the program as evaluated by the judging panel based on the judging criteria.

The ZBiotics Prize for Microbial Engineering

The ZBiotics Prize for Microbial Engineering recognizes creative projects that use synthetic biology to imagine and prototype new ways of engineering microorganisms for human, environmental, and societal benefit while engaging with the ethical and safety implications of microbial engineering.

Outstanding Science

Awarded to the team that demonstrates the most rigorous scientific research, material characterization, or experimental design.

Outstanding Narrative

Awarded to the team with the most complete and compelling presentation of their design submission, including supporting visual materials and contextual information. 

Outstanding Speculative Design

Awarded to the team that presents the most compelling speculative design in the program.

Outstanding Arts & Culture

Awarded to the team that submits the best work of original bioart or biotic game in the program.

Outstanding Community Lab Design

Awarded to the best team associated with a community lab or biology organization (if applicable) as evaluated by the judging panel based on the judging criteria.

Outstanding High School Project

Awarded to the best team associated with a high school (if applicable) as evaluated by the judging panel based on the judging criteria..