On May 6, 2025, students from Skyline College’s BTEC 150 Biomanufacturing course attended the SynBioBeta Global Synthetic Biology Conference at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center. This premier international event brings together leaders from industry and academia to explore advancements in synthetic biology, encompassing healthcare, agriculture, materials science, and climate solutions. The Symposium proved to be more than just a conference — it was a dynamic hub of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration.
For many students, this marked their first experience at a large-scale professional conference. They engaged in keynote presentations, panel discussions, and explored an extensive vendor expo showcasing cutting-edge lab equipment, innovative biotechnological techniques, and real-world applications of synthetic biology.
Skyline students also had the opportunity to connect with key figures in the field. Jim DeKloe from Solano College and Goalie Afshar of BioMade met with our group, including students Alex, Jason, Iqra, Jady, and Olena, accompanied by faculty lead Dr. Nick Kapp.
To capture the students’ perspectives, we invited them to share reflections on their experiences:
Iqra Chughtai
Iqra found the panel on pharmaceutical partnerships in computational drug discovery particularly insightful. “It provided real insights into how the pharmaceutical industry views AI in biotech,” she noted. Meeting Alina Rui Su, CEO of Generation Lab, expanded her understanding of synthetic biology’s real-world impact. “SynBioBeta revealed that biotech careers extend beyond the lab, encompassing AI, automation, and biomanufacturing, aligning with my interests,” she added.
Jason Mead
Jason was captivated by the “Bio/Acc and Biohack: The Science Behind the Hype” session. “Learning about advancements in human augmentation and health diagnostics, like sequencing our microbiome and analyzing health metrics through eye analysis, was eye-opening,” he shared. Interacting with the CEO of Mithrl, a company producing AI co-scientists, inspired him. “Attending SynBioBeta showcased the vast avenues and careers in the biotech industry, emphasizing the importance of expanding my horizons and continuing my learning journey,” Jason reflected.
Jaded Rodrgiez
Jady appreciated the talk on how pharmaceutical companies use computers to discover new drugs. “It highlighted the synergy between science and technology, making drug discovery faster and more efficient,” she said. Interacting with a representative from Trilobio was memorable. “She was approachable and made discussing biotechnology concepts enjoyable and understandable,” Jaded recalled. “SynBioBeta broadened my perspective on the biotech field, revealing the diverse career options beyond traditional research roles,” she concluded.
Attending the SynBioBeta Global Symposium offered Skyline College Biomanufacturing students a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore groundbreaking innovations, and gain real-world insights into the future of synthetic biology. Their experience at this global event not only deepened their understanding of the field but also inspired a renewed passion for scientific discovery and collaboration. As these students return to campus, they carry with them not just knowledge—but a vision of the exciting possibilities ahead in biotechnology.
Article by Iqra Chughtai
