From left to right: Mr. Gert Pietersen, Dr. Eshchar Mizrachi, Ms. Modjadji Makwela, Mr. Axel Ind, Ms. Thabang Msimango, Mr. Vaughn Barendsen, Ms. Nomakula Zim, Mr. Ricu Claassens, Dr. Steven Hussey, Prof. Zander Myburg and Mr. Brad Querl
Introduction to the Team
Seven undergraduate students and one honours student were selected for team Pretoria_UP, the first iGEM team at UP. Their areas of specialization range from human genetics to plant science, microbiology to computer science. They are instructed by Dr. Steven Hussey, advised by Prof. Zander Myburg and Dr. Eshchar Mizrachi, and hosted in the Forest Molecular Genetics group, Department of Genetics, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI).
Team members
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Axel Tyler Ind
Bsc Information Sciences: Information Science, Genetics Double Major (3rd year)
Skills
Technical
Proficiency in academic writing
Programming in languages including: Java, Perl, Python, C#, C++, Assembler, R, VBS
Scripting languages (with an emphasis on PowerShell)
Database design, creation and management
Experience in Scrum and Waterfall design methodologies for large projects
Strong understanding of the Boolean algebra underlying the AND Gate component of the proposed system
Non-technical
Very strong verbal presentation skills
A functional understanding of genetic principles and computer modelling
Team leadership skills
Hobbies
Scientific reading (with a focus on Artificial Intelligence)
Casual Programming
Guitar
Being legendary
Sailing
Creative Writing
Motivation for Igem Participation
Biotechnology, although not my chosen field of study, is one of my enduring interests. The opportunity to work alongside some of South Africa’s most capable young scientists, in pursuit of a novel application for existing, and created, constructs, is extremely appealing to me on a personal level. As a Computer Science student, I lack the practical capabilities of some of my peers, but am extremely interested in learning and participating to the best of my ability.
In terms of my future studies, I believe that the knowledge gained throughout the course of this project will provide invaluable insight into unexplored approaches to the field of Artificial Intelligence. Novel problem-solving, using biologically inspired computer systems, has become a complex and fascinating part of modern information sciences; and, I believe, this project will afford me an incredibly rich learning opportunity.
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Brad Michael Querl
BSc Plant Science 3rd year
Skills
Technical
Adequate understanding of the basics of biotechnology
Able to learn and carry out laboratory techniques fast and accurately
Strong understanding of experimental methods
Non-technical
Firm grasp on the basics of animation and design
Adequate understanding of gene control and other principles of genetics
Proficiency in graphical presentation
Hobbies
Body Building
MMA
Fishing
Motivation for Igem Participation
I joined this team in a hope of further increasing my understanding of biotechnology, it has always interested me, and although it is not directly related to the degree I am aiming for (BSc Hons Medicinal Plants) it is a very important part of the world we live in today and its contribution to society is only growing larger each year. With endless possibilities, I felt that I needed to be a part of this community in some way, and I hope to make a large contribution to my team and also hope that my team makes a valuable contribution to scientific community.
Another reason that motivated my participation was the invaluable contribution that this opportunity would add to my CV, and the experience that would be gained in several of the laboratory techniques which will undoubtedly help me in my scientific career. In short, it is an amazing opportunity, and I am honoured to be a part of such an extraordinary team.
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Gert Pietersen
BscHons: Microbiology and Genetics
Skills
Technical
Molecular cloning
Technical research
Cell culture
Bioinformatics
Experimental design
Non-technical
Group management and social
Logistics and co-ordination
Communication and presentation
Hobbies
Sports (gymnastics, rock climbing)
Music
Festivals
Leisure reading
Motivation for Igem Participation
I have been exposed to science since a young age. My father is a virologist of the University of Pretoria and specializes in plant pathology. As a youngster I frequently accompanied to him work where I recall being fascinated by pH indicator colour changes, electron microscope images and the cabinets packed with arrays of chemicals. Growing up, my interest evolved from rocket science to (more realistically) chemistry and I finally settled on biology, specifically the molecular aspects.
I am currently engaged in an honors degree in microbiology with my research project aimed at creating a recombinant version of African horse sickness virus with a non-structural gene knock out. This project has been both challenging and engaging and I am looking forward to the remainder of the year.
I believe that society is in a revolution in which the great potential of biotechnology is being realized. Modern techniques are advancing our understanding of the fundamental workings of biological systems and new applications are being developed daily. This is undoubtedly a very exciting time to be in the position of young scientist entering a field with the resources and support currently being invested. iGEM is a great opportunity to learn about new molecular mechanisms and techniques. I look forward to meet people who have had years of experience in and share a similar appreciation for synthetic biology. Further I hope to share my experience with the members of our team and in doing so develop lasting friendships.
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Modjadji Makwela
BSc Microbiology : Focus mainly in Genetics and microbiology modules (3rd year)
Skills
Technical
Chemistry skills- titrations , use of a spectrophotometer
Microbiology skills- Autoclaving, seed collecting, tip packing and other basic laboratory tasks.
Computing- good typing skills
Non-technical
Team player
Helpful and willing to learn
Ability to work under pressure
Hobbies
Reading
Drawing
Cooking
Motivation for Igem Participation
I’ve decided to participate in IGEM because it is a great learning experience .It provides an opportunity to learn more about the growing interdisciplinary field of synthetic biology and its applications. As a 3rd year student I have gained some theoretical knowledge in microbiology field and being a part of the IGEM team the idea of working in the lab to test the constructs and biobricks compiled in our project is quite exciting. IGEM is also a good platform to work together with a team of aspiring scientists from different fields of study and with some great researchers as our team mentors there is plenty to learn from them.
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Nomakula Yvonne Zim
BSc Genetics and Microbiology 3rd year
Skills
Technical
Decision-making
Critical thinking
Analytical
Non-technical
Diplomatic
Creative
Time management
Hobbies
Music
Sports
Reading
Movies
Motivation for Igem Participation
The idea of creating new constructs and improving those previously made which may help improve all fields of science is very exciting. I had to grab the opportunity to work together with other young scientists and learn from those who have been in the field.
The global community is approaching a time where it will require innovative ways to maximize its resources. Synthetic biology is going to play a major role in an age where resources are limited and life depends heavily on science. Participating in iGEM will give me the opportunity to get a glimpse into this amazing new branch of science. I’m hoping that my participation in this will inspire others to go into the field of science and explore the world.
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Ricu Claassens
BSc Genetics, Microbiology dual major (3rd year)
Skills
Technical
Technical knowledge related to the proposed ideas
Attention to detail
Interpreting data
Laboratory methods and techniques
Reading complex scientific material
Non-technical
Ability to work in team structure
Ability to work under pressure
Proactive towards setting and achieving goals
Logical thinking
Hobbies
Tennis
Golf
Travel
Music
Motivation for Igem Participation
I was pleased to be informed of the iGEM competition, because it provides a perfect opportunity to interact with my peers and learn from the mentors. I am eager to improve my skills in a lab environment and to adapt myself to such a working environment. I perceive this opportunity as a significant advancement in my University career and I value the experience I can gain from taking part in this competition. Furthermore, I can gain a lot of extra knowledge on subjects that do not necessarily form part of the undergraduate syllabus.
I believe that I am passionate about biology and I do enjoy working in a team environment. I realize that this is a perfect opportunity for me to gain valuable experience while I am still busy with my undergraduate studies, experience which will also be valuable in the future when I apply for work after I am done with my studies.
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Thabang Nora Msimango
Bsc Biotechnology, 3rd year
Skills
Technical
General laboratory duties
Plasmid DNA extraction
Setting up a PCR
Gel electrophoresis
Single spore isolations
Non-technical
Good presenting skills
Teamwork
Willingness to learn
Hobbies
Reading
Playing games
Cooking
Listening to music
Motivation for Igem Participation
As a 3rd year Bsc Biotechnology student I was looking for ways in which I could learn more about my chosen field of study. Being part of the IGEM team provided that opportunity for me. I value the theory gathered from textbooks as well as the lecturers who go out of their way to ensure that we understand the things we learn in class but theory alone is nothing without being put into practice. I see IGEM as the first step to putting my knowledge to good use.
Over the last few months that I’ve been part of the IGEM team I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of science, its challenges and the solutions that it offers to real life problems. There are a lot of areas that are still to be discovered which makes it more interesting. It has also exposed me to the vast scientific paths and careers and applications thereof. I’m grateful for this opportunity; I now have no doubt that I made the right choice in pursuing a career in science.
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Vaughn Murray Barendsen
BSc Human Genetics (Third Year)
Skills
Technical
Molecular skills and practical application of genetic principles and techniques
Microbial and biochemical laboratory skills
Non-technical
Non-technical
Practical as well as theoretical understanding and application of genetic principles
Understanding of microbiology, biochemical principles, physiology and human physiology
Basic comprehension and language skills in Mandarin
Hobbies
Cycling
Rock Climbing
Reading (Fiction and scientific books and articles)
The study of astrology
Motivation for Igem Participation
The three years that I have been enrolled in my field of study, I have begun to appreciate the vast capacity of application of synthetic biology. I believe that synthetic biology is the next step in the evolution of science in the 21st century. Being a part of the IGEM group has opened my eyes to the endless potential of this rapidly growing field to all components of science.
The opportunity to work with such a diverse group of people in their various fields of study is truly inspirational, as we are all able to learn from one another. I look forward to taking the knowledge that I’ve acquired and incorporating synthetic biology into human genetics.
