The "MolBio Geeks Competing" team quiz competition was held on 12 September 2024, as part of the 9th International Congress of the Molecular Biology Association of Türkiye (MolBiyoKon 24’), in Izmir, Türkiye. Organized in collaboration with the Turkish Biochemical Society (TBS), this special event celebrated FEBS 60th Anniversary by promoting the achievements of students and researchers in molecular biology and biochemistry. The aim was to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, professional networking, and knowledge sharing within the scientific community.
The event was financially supported by FEBS, with a FEBS Constituent Society outreach event grant, and by the Molecular Biology Association of Türkiye.
Objectives
The event had a range of objectives:
- To celebrate six decades of contributions by FEBS to molecular biology and biochemistry.
- To bring together students and researchers in a competitive yet collaborative environment.
- To provide a platform for participants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
- To promote networking and collaboration within the molecular biology and biochemistry communities.
- To make science fun while encouraging participants to think critically about molecular biology and biochemistry.
Key outcomes
The event successfully met its objectives and demonstrated several important outcomes:
- High participation: We had over 90 registrants, comprising students and early-career researchers from various institutions. The diversity of participants enabled dynamic interactions and knowledge exchange.
- Engagement and networking: Participants engaged in stimulating scientific discussions, with many noting that the event helped them forge new academic and professional connections.
- Knowledge showcase: Through individual and team-based challenges, participants showcased their molecular biology expertise. The competition covered topics from gene expression and disease biology to biochemical techniques, encouraging problem-solving and collaboration.
- Inspiration for future leaders: The event highlighted young molecular biologists’ passion and expertise, with many participants expressing their intention to attend future events and pursue further scientific collaborations. The competition fostered an atmosphere of both mentorship and inspiration, as established researchers interacted with students.
- Celebration of FEBS's legacy: The event paid tribute to FEBS’s contributions over the past 60 years, with special sessions focusing on landmark discoveries in biochemistry and molecular biology. The competition encouraged participants to reflect on the scientific journey thus far and to contribute to future advancements.
- Promotion of the 49th FEBS Congress: Throughout the congress, the 49th FEBS Congress was regularly promoted by playing the official introductory video, ensuring participants were informed about the upcoming congress and its significance for the scientific community.
Achievements
- Awards for top teams: The first three teams were awarded registration bursaries to the 9th International Congress of the Molecular Biology Association of Türkiye. Additionally, they will receive free registration to the upcoming 49th FEBS Congress.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration: The event fostered collaboration between participants from different disciplines, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern molecular biology research.
Conclusion and future directions
“MolBio Geeks Competing” successfully fulfilled its aim to unite students and researchers in a dynamic and engaging environment. The positive feedback received from participants and attendees emphasizes the importance of such events in nurturing future scientific leaders. We look forward to organizing similar competitions in the future to continue celebrating scientific achievements and fostering collaboration within the molecular biology community.
Photos from the event
All images by Prof. Gunes Ozhan and her students.
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