Synthetic Microbiology

Dear VAAM Members, 

Synthetic Biology is a rapidly evolving research field focused on designing or modifying biological networks, systems, or entire cells with an engineering approach. This interdisciplinary approach not only addresses fundamental research questions (e.g., the working principles of living cells and their subsystems) but also serves as a key technology tied to the Bioeconomy and Sustainability agendas. As such, Synthetic Biology has been identified by the European Commission as a critical technology of strategic economic and geopolitical interest. 

In German-speaking regions, the expansion of Synthetic Biology in recent years is tangible. Several Research Centers for Synthetic (Micro)Biology have been established (e.g., in Marburg and Darmstadt), and numerous professorships in Synthetic (Micro)Biology have been created (e.g., in Freiburg, Jülich, Saarbrücken, Dresden, and Düsseldorf). Additionally, the iGEM/noGEM competition has become institutionalized at many universities, with German student teams achieving remarkable success. 

This academic progress is mirrored in the industrial sector, where several start-up companies have been founded, and established corporations (e.g., LanzaTech, Bayer) have invested in or partnered with Synthetic Biology companies (e.g., Ginkgo Bioworks). The market for Synthetic Biology is projected to grow to 60 billion USD by 2030, with microbial-based technologies and solutions at its core. 

Up to now, VAAM lacked representation for this academically and economically significant research field. While members interested in sub-aspects of Synthetic Microbiology can find secondary homes in other sections, a dedicated “Synthetic Microbiology” section that provides a forum for scientific and strategic discussions was missing. The interest of VAAM members in the creation of a dedicated Synthetic Microbiology interest group was gauged with an online survey conducted by the VAAM office in 2023, which culminated in a positive vote during the 2023 Annual VAAM meeting held in Göttingen. 

With the newly established “Synthetic Microbiology” section, we aim to unite the Synthetic Microbiology community within VAAM and foster connections with other scientific societies, such as the German Association for Synthetic Biology (GASB) and the recently founded Joint Section for Synthetic Biology (DBG, DECHEMA, GBM, GDCh), as well as with the policymaking sector. Given the growing interest of early-career scientists in this topic, we aim to develop and foster innovative activities, programs, and professional development opportunities targeting this group. 

We hope that you can trust us with your vote for our candidacy as the Speaker Team for the VAAM Synthetic Microbiology section and join us in advancing this exciting research field and its knowledge valorization. 

Thank you very much for your attention. 

Best regards, Cecilia G. Flocco 
Markus Pötter