Synthetic Biology
The IET's most recent journal launch is IET Synthetic Biology. Four issues are planned for publication in the first year
In addition to the print journal, we plan to develop associated web resources, which will include a repository of online video resources, specialised review material and research tools for synthetic biology. For the early stages of the journal’s development, published content will be freely available online.
Focus of the journal
Synthetic Biology is a new interdisciplinary endeavour which involves the recruitment of engineering principles to biology. Simple biological elements can be adopted as reusable, components, which are well characterised and can be used for the construction of more complex devices and systems. The approach allows the biological application of engineering concepts such as modularity, abstraction and insulation from underlying detail.
The reuse of modular components also facilitates software modelling, and work in the field is promoting parallel developments in computer software. New students and workers are coming into the field from very diverse areas, and need to come to grips with the nitty-gritty of unfamiliar biological systems, engineering tools and computer sciences. There is a demand for specialised coverage of this new field, including educational and review materials. IET Synthetic Biology will aim to support this growing new community.
The journal will publish conventional research papers in synthetic biology. It will also provide a “nuts and bolts” view of this new field, and will provide review and educational materials. In particular, we wish to support the activities of young workers entering the synthetic biology field. We currently invite new submissions. Please read our author guide before you submit a paper.
iGEM 2006
The focus of the first issue of the journal will be on the 2006 iGEM (international Genetically Engineered Machine) competition. iGEM is an international arena where student teams compete to design and assemble engineered machines using advanced genetic components and technologies. Please read the specific instructions on writing and submitting a report based on your team’s iGEM entry (pdf).
Editorial panel
Editor-in-Chief
Dr. Jim Haseloff, University of Cambridge
Editorial Board (to date)
Dr. Jim Ajioka, University of Cambridge
Dr. Jason Chin, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Dr. Alistair Elfick, University of Edinburgh
Prof. Andy Ellington, University of Texas, Austin
Prof. Paul Freemont, Imperial College London
Dr. Alfonso Jaramillo, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS
Dr. Sven Panke, ETH, Zurich
Prof. Ron Weiss, Princeton University
