Internal Spaces

The focus of this thematic space is on future perspectives. It addresses the societal embedding of potential synthetic biology applications in a process of real-time technology assessment, combined with deliberative methods to facilitate playful reflection and learning, in close cooperation with the iGEM competition. Synbio Futures activities in SYNENERGENE are coordinated by Rathenau, VU/VUMC, TUDelft, and LIS Consult. (image: iGem Foundation & Justin Knight)
This thematic space focuses on Public Engagement in research and innovation in a broad sense, including public participation and dialogue, citizen engagement, informal learning, access to knowledge. It aims at fostering mutual learning and gaining a better understanding of the complexity of public expectations. Public engagement activities are coordinated by Ecsite, UBristol, and OeAW. (Image: MUSE)
Imagination is important to science, innovation and their ramifications for society. The thematic space Art & Culture explores the collaboration between art and science to chart hitherto unknown or unforeseen implications synthetic biology might hold to our future(s). Art & Culture  provides also a starting point for lay people who would normally not engage in the field of science and technology. Art & Culture - as a key part of SYNENERGENE – is coordinated by Biofaction, with contributions by Biofaction, UKL Freiburg, University Paris, and FBAS. (Image: Markus Schmidt)
The Research & Policy thematic space focuses on responsible research and innovation and on policy issues. This space will integrate the results of all SYNENERGENE activities with a view to enabling policy makers and other actors to jointly shape research and innovation according to societal needs. Research & Policy activities in SYNENERGENE are coordinated by KIT, UNIPD, WWICS, and TU Darmstadt. (Image: Schader Stiftung)
DIYbio engages citizens in (synthetic) biology research. Central to the mission of DIYbio is the belief that a growing public understanding of biotechnology will benefit everyone. This thematic space welcomes citizen scientists, hackers, artists as well as researchers to discuss open-source citizen science in the life sciences and its contribution to responsible research and innovation.