International Hackathon on Molecular Biology and Genetics

International Hackathon on Molecular Biology and Genetics

📅 Date: November 28–30, 2026
🌐 Mode: Online
👩‍💼 Convenor: Ms. Suguna B – Co-Founder & CBO, Mastering Up
🔗 Organized by: Mastering Up

1] About the Hackathon

The International Hackathon on Molecular Biology and Genetics is a global innovation platform designed to foster creative and impactful solutions in the field of modern life sciences. This event brings together students, researchers, and biotech innovators to explore the molecular basis of life, genetic mechanisms, and applications of genomics and molecular tools in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sciences.

The hackathon encourages participants to think beyond the lab — to develop data-driven, technology-integrated, and sustainable innovations that can address real-world biological challenges. Teams will ideate, prototype, and pitch solutions that harness the power of molecular biology and genetics for a better, healthier future.

2] Problem Statements / Tracks

Track 1: Rapid Gene Editing Solutions for Disease Resistance
Problem: Many genetic disorders lack effective curative treatments.
Expected Solution: Develop CRISPR/Cas-based tools, delivery systems, or software models to enhance precision and safety in gene editing for human or plant applications.

Track 2: DNA Data Storage and Computation
Problem: Traditional data storage systems are energy-intensive and limited in capacity.
Expected Solution: Design computational or algorithmic frameworks utilizing DNA as a medium for data storage and processing.

Track 3: Genetic Biomarkers for Early Disease Detection
Problem: Late diagnosis leads to high mortality in many diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s.
Expected Solution: Build bioinformatics pipelines or AI models to identify, validate, and predict biomarkers from genomic data.

Track 4: Personalized Medicine through Genomics
Problem: Current medical treatments often follow “one-size-fits-all” models.
Expected Solution: Create predictive tools or databases that tailor therapies based on individual genetic profiles.

Track 5: Synthetic Biology for Sustainable Biotechnology
Problem: Industrial production often relies on non-renewable resources.
Expected Solution: Develop engineered microbes or biosynthetic pathways for producing biofuels, bioplastics, or pharmaceuticals sustainably.

Track 6: Molecular Mechanisms of Aging and Regeneration
Problem: Aging and tissue degeneration remain poorly understood.
Expected Solution: Propose molecular or genetic models explaining regeneration and develop potential anti-aging or regenerative therapy frameworks.

Track 7: Agricultural Genetics and Crop Improvement
Problem: Yield and nutritional limitations persist despite modern farming methods.
Expected Solution: Design genetic approaches to enhance crop yield, resistance, and nutritional content using omics-based analysis.

Track 8: Genomic Data Security and Ethics
Problem: Genetic information is highly sensitive and prone to misuse.
Expected Solution: Create encryption, anonymization, or blockchain-based frameworks for secure genetic data storage and sharing.

Track 9: Molecular Diagnostics and Point-of-Care Technologies
Problem: Developing countries lack access to molecular-level diagnostics.
Expected Solution: Innovate portable, low-cost diagnostic devices based on PCR, LAMP, or biosensor technology for early pathogen detection.

Track 10: Individual Student Innovation
Theme: Open Innovation in Molecular Biology and Genetics
Participants can propose any original idea applying molecular biology or genetics to solve healthcare, agricultural, or environmental challenges.

3] Event Schedule (Three-Day)

🗓 Day 1 – November 28, 2026

• Inaugural Ceremony & Welcome Address

• Introduction to Hackathon Theme and Tracks

• Team Registration & Orientation

• Idea Pitching and Mentorship Round 1

🗓 Day 2 – November 29, 2026

• Research, Coding, and Model Development

• Expert Mentorship Sessions

• Mid-Hackathon Review

• Workshop: Genomic Innovations & Startup Pathways

🗓 Day 3 – November 30, 2026

• Final Prototyping and Presentations

• Jury Evaluation and Feedback

• Award Distribution & Closing Remarks

4] Eligibility & Participation Rules

• Team Size: 2–4 members

• Eligibility: Open to students, researchers, educators, startups, and biotech enthusiasts worldwide.

• Code of Conduct:

  • Ensure originality; plagiarism will lead to disqualification.

  • Maintain professionalism and academic integrity.

  • Respect mentors, peers, and organizers.

  • Uphold ethical standards in genetic and biological research.

5] Evaluation Criteria

1. Innovation & Creativity – Novelty and uniqueness of idea.

2. Practical Application / Social Impact – Relevance and usefulness of solution.

3. Technical Implementation – Accuracy, methodology, and technical depth.

4. Scalability & Feasibility – Potential for real-world execution and impact.

5. Presentation Quality – Clarity, delivery, and overall project communication.

6] Prizes & Recognition

🏆 Top 10 Ideas/Winners

• Receive USD 1000 worth “Idea to Startup Scheme” Voucher from SUKISH GROUP.

🥇 Top 3 Ideas

• Shared with leading companies/research institutions for seed funding and collaboration, including:

  1. Illumina Inc.

  2. Thermo Fisher Scientific

  3. Genentech

  4. European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)

  5. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard

🎖 Additional Recognition:

• Certificates of Participation for all participants.

• Special Category – Innovation Awards during MU International Awards 2026 Series.

• Opportunity to present at related MU International Conference.

• All selected ideas will be abstracted in MU International Journal.

7] Registration Section

• Indian Team of 4 Members: ₹499
  🔗 Registration Link (Indian)

• International Team of 4 Members: USD 50
  🔗 Registration Link (Foreigner)

• Deadline for Registration: November 21, 2026

8] Contact Information

📧 Email: contact@masteringup.com
🌍 Website: www.masteringup.com/events