Students of the University of Latvia are invited to apply for the free elective (C part) course “iGEM II – Project Development”, which offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in genetic engineering by combining theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory work. The course will take place from May 5 to October 30 in English, and upon completion, students will earn 3 ECTS credits, which will be awarded in the Fall semester of the 2026/2027 academic year.
What is the main benefit of this course?
An opportunity to gain foundational knowledge in genetic engineering — both theoretical understanding and practical skills. A more detailed course description is available here: Courses
· What is the main benefit of the course?
An opportunity to learn the fundamentals of genetic engineering — both theoretical knowledge and practical skills!
What is iGEM?
The iGEM is an international genetic engineering competition in which student teams develop their own ideas to address important challenges for humanity using genetic engineering. These may include fields such as medical biotechnology, environmental biotechnology, energy production, food biotechnology, and astrobiotechnology. More here: iGEM Villages
Although the genetic engineering project implemented in the course will be directly linked to this year’s Latvian iGEM team research, participation in the course does not require joining the iGEM team and does not guarantee participation in the iGEM competition.
Are there any registration restrictions for the course?
No. The course is open to students of all study levels, with no restrictions on study field or prior knowledge requirements. However, a good understanding of microbiology, molecular biology, chemistry, or computer science (at high school level) is recommended to comfortably participate in the course.
Credits for the course will be awarded in the Autumn semester of the 2026/2027 academic year, therefore students who have Part C courses planned for the autumn semester are encouraged to apply.
How will the course be conducted?
1. The course will start in May with 2–3 theoretical sessions, while the most intensive practical work is planned from the end of May to early September. In June, activities will mainly focus on training, while from July onward more independent work is expected.
2. The course will primarily consist of experimental laboratory work (at the University of Latvia, House of Nature), carried out on an individual basis as part of this year’s iGEM team project.
3. In total, the course will include 2–3 theoretical sessions and 3–5 practical group training sessions, which will have fixed schedules and mandatory attendance. All other learning will consist of independent experimental work in the laboratory under mentor supervision.
How and when will registration and credit allocation take place?
1. Applications should be sent by email to the course coordinator Zane Ozoliņa (zane.ozolina2@lu.lv) by May 5. After receiving applications, we will send a confirmation e-mail with the detailed information regarding the first lecture.
2. Based on submitted applications, Student Services will register students for the course at the end of August (during the registration week).
Note: the course will already start in May, before registration in the LUIS system!
3. The final assessment is planned for mid / late October (aligned with the iGEM competition calendar).
4. Credits for the course will be awarded in the Autumn semester of the 2026/2027 academic year, therefore students who have Part C courses planned for that semester are encouraged to apply.
