Biodesign Challenge (BDC)
Glass Microbe Grand Prize
Biodesign Challenge (BDC) is a competition by Biodesign Challenge Inc. for students in Class 9–12, open to students across India.
Mode
Hybrid
Eligibility
Class 9–12
Fee
$1,750
Duration
Semester-long program, culminating in an annual summit
Format
Team · Teams of 5
Time needed
Significant, involving project development, research, mentorship sessions, and presentations.
About This Opportunity
The Biodesign Challenge (BDC) is an international education program and competition that connects high school and university students with scientists, artists, and designers. Participants envision, create, and critique projects that address real-world challenges using biotechnology, fostering innovation and interdisciplinary thinking. The program provides extensive curriculum support, an online resource library, and expert mentorship from professionals in science, design, and ethics.
This competition is open to high school and university students worldwide, who must be enrolled in an accredited institution. Teams are formed through participating schools or institutions, with classrooms registering to join the program. Participants gain valuable experience in biodesign and biotechnology, developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 9–12
- Age Range
- 14 - 18 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
Must be enrolled in an accredited high school or university (undergraduate and graduate students up to master's level).
Prerequisites
- Interest in biotechnology, art, and design
- Ability to work effectively in teams
- Curious mind and collaborative mindset
Open to high school students (grades 9-12, typically ages 14-18) and university students (undergraduate and graduate up to master's level, typically ages 18-26) worldwide. Participants must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution. Teams are formed through participating schools or classrooms.
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Academic Details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The program provides curriculum support and an online resource library, including journal articles, book chapters, videos, and a message board. It covers themes like architecture, materials, bioethics, social justice, energy, fashion, food, medicine, and water.
Rewards & Recognition
Prizes
Glass Microbe Grand Prize & Awards
Winning teams compete for prestigious awards, including the coveted Glass Microbe Grand Prize, Outstanding Digital Submission, Outstanding Narrative, Outstanding Display, Outstanding Institutional Collaboration, and Outstanding Art awards.
Opens doors to
The 'Outstanding Art' award includes a one-year scholarship. Participation also enhances university applications and future career prospects through project experience.
Career pathways
Participants gain significant networking opportunities with leaders in academia, industry, art, and design. Alumni often launch successful careers or startups, with BDC providing support for future opportunities with museums, galleries, investors, and accelerator programs. The 'Outstanding Art' award includes a solo exhibition opportunity with Biobat.
Recognition
International recognition
Skills your child builds
Highlights
- Interdisciplinary approach combining biotechnology, art, and design.
- Collaboration with a global network of mentors and experts.
- Focus on solving real-world problems with biotech innovation.
- Culminates in an annual international summit and exhibition in New York City.
- Strong alumni network offering support for career and startup development.
Rounds & format
The judging process involves three rounds for in-person participants and two for virtual. Round 1: Instructors, with expert consultants, select one finalist team per classroom. Round 2 (Live): Finalist teams present at the BDC Summit, where judging panels select top teams. Round 3 (Live): Top teams present to a full jury of experts who choose the overall winners and thematic prize recipients.
How entries are judged
Projects are judged based on four main criteria: Concept, Narrative, Reflection, and Context. Additional evaluation considers innovation, scientific rigor, artistic merit, societal impact, feasibility, and presentation quality.
Selection process
Teams are selected based on the originality of their project, scientific basis, design approach, and potential to address real-world problems. Team collaboration and presentation skills are also key evaluation factors.
How to apply
- 1Schools or institutions apply to register for the Biodesign Challenge program. Once registered, classrooms form student teams to develop their projects with instructor and mentor guidance.
How to prepare
- Online library of educational resources and curriculum guides.
- Access to expert mentorship from scientists, artists, and designers.
- Interactive webinars hosted by leaders in art, design, and science.
- Canvas online platform for communication and resources.
Fees & financial support
Fee details
Participating schools or institutions are required to pay a participation fee of $1,750 to join the Biodesign Challenge. This fee provides access to educational resources, mentorship from expert consultants, and one presentation slot at the annual BDC Summit.
Refund policy
Cancellations must be submitted in writing prior to January 15th to qualify for a refund. All refunds are subject to a $70 processing fee. Refunds are processed in US dollars.
Frequently asked questions
Is Biodesign Challenge (BDC) free?
$1,750 registration
Who can participate in Biodesign Challenge (BDC)?
Students in Class 9–12. children aged 14-18.
What will my child gain from Biodesign Challenge (BDC)?
Win prestigious awards including the Glass Microbe Grand Prize.. Gain international recognition and showcase projects at the BDC Summit in New York City.. Network with leading experts and professionals in biotechnology, art, and design.. Develop critical interdisciplinary skills in science, art, and design thinking.. Receive mentorship from scientists, artists, and designers.. Access an online library of educational resources and curriculum materials.. Enhance university applications and future career prospects through project experience.. Join a global alumni community with support for future opportunities and startups.. Opportunity for a one-year scholarship and solo exhibition for the 'Outstanding Art' award..
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