Synthetic Biology

Suzhou, China 

July 23 - August 6, 2024

Application Deadline: June 5, 2024



Organized by:

Junbiao Dai, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, CAAS

Yingxin Ma, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS

Xiaowo Wang, Tsinghua University

Ping WeiShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS


Course Description

Synthetic Biology represents the cutting edge of Biotechnology, encompassing a multidisciplinary domain that integrates concepts from biology, engineering, and computer science to craft and develop biological systems or organisms with innovative functionalities.


This course is designed for entry-level students interested in synthetic biology and biotechnology. The goal is to enable students to understand the basic concept and techniques, to follow the frontiers of current researches, and to explore future directions in Synthetic Biology. The centerpiece of the course is an immersive laboratory experience in which students work in teams to learn the practical and theoretical underpinnings of synthetic biology research. 


Laboratory modules cover the following areas:

  • DNA assembly technologies and their applications on construction of metabolic pathways

  • Modeling gene expression using ordinary differential equations

  • DNA Assembly and Design of Expression Cassettes

  • CRISPR technologies for genome editing and gene regulation


Students will grasp fundamental synthetic biology concepts and techniques throughout the course, engaging in tailored practical experiments covering various facets of synthetic biology. They will have the opportunity to closely interact with a panel of globally renowned speakers who will collectively offer a comprehensive insight into synthetic biology applications, spanning areas such as chemical production, therapeutics, cutting-edge techniques, protein design, and more.



2024 Faculty roster

Junbiao Dai, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, CAAS

Yingxin Ma, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS

Baojun Wang, Zhejiang University

Xiaowo Wang, Tsinghua University

Ping Wei, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS

Bian Wu, Institute of Microbiology, CAS

Zhen Xie, Tsinghua University 


And more



Application Instructions
Synthetic biology is an inherently interdisciplinary field. We encourage students of all backgrounds to apply, from experimental biology to very theoretical fields. At the end of your personal statement/essay, please rank your interest in the following major available laboratory modules (from highest to lowest interest):

(1) DNA assembly technologies and their applications on metabolic pathways

(2) Modeling and genetic circuit construction 

(3) CRISPR tools for gene editing & regulation

(4) Biosensing and response 



2024 PRICING (INCLUDING TUITION, BOARD AND LODGING): 1300 USD


No payment is due until the selection decisions are made, but any applicant requiring financial support (i.e. stipends) should make that request in written form during the online application. The admissions process is need-blind, your financial situation will not be considered before admission decisions are made.