Global Teams To Use Biotechnology to Design Regenerative Ecosystems
Biodesign Challenge and Mars Wrigley are partnering on a design sprint to explore ways food systems can support the wellbeing of both people and planet.
NEW YORK, NY, August 29, 2022: Biodesign Challenge, a nonprofit biotechnology education program, today announced a design exploration program with Mars Wrigley. The two will partner on the 2022 Biodesign Sprint, a month-long innovation challenge that asks participants to create new ways to establish a regenerative ecosystem using biology and biotechnology.
The Sprint will launch on September 28 and culminate at the Sprint Finals on November 4, which will be broadcast live and will take the form of a pitch competition. Speakers at the finals include sociologist, physician, and author Nicholas Christakis and journalist, editor, and founder of MOLD Magazine LinYee Yuan.
Registration is currently open and Mars Wrigley and BDC are recruiting teams from across the world. Preference is given to multidisciplinary teams from across biology, engineering, social science, art, and design. Tracks include both student and professional teams. Applications are due by September 16.
Teams of 2-6 participants will create projects that explore ways that food choices can support physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing, all while bringing positive change to the environment. Forty teams will present their projects to a panel of judges comprised of experts from both Mars Wrigley and the biodesign community.
“Often how we take care of ourselves impacts our ability to show up for each other and the planet—our well-being fuels our well-doing.” said Dondeena Bradley, Global Vice President, Wellbeing Center Of Expertise. “It starts with us! I’m excited about this partnership and how it will take a fresh look at the food system and ways to better serve people and the planet.”
“We cannot wait to see the ideas that our community will bring to a critically important subject like wellbeing,” said Executive Director of Biodesign Challenge Daniel Grushkin. “Mars Wrigley is giving us an opportunity to rethink food systems in a creative way. I can’t think of a better partner.”
The winning teams will have the potential opportunity to meet and network with leaders at Mars. Runner Up and Winning teams from each track will be connected to the global network at Mars for mentorship beyond the Sprint.
Apply to participate by September 16.
About Biodesign Challenge
The Biodesign Challenge (BDC) is an international student competition and educational program that partners high school and university students with artists, designers, and scientists to imagine, create, and critique the future of biotechnology. During the academic year, students develop bold and feasible projects that use biotechnology to address pressing issues or to critique biotechnology’s impact on society.
About Mars, Incorporated
Mars, Inc is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. Today, Mars is transforming, innovating, and evolving in ways that affirm its commitment to making a positive impact on the world. The Mars Five Principles—Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom—inspire its 133,00 employees to help create a tomorrow in which the planet, its people, and pets can thrive. For more information about Mars, please visit mars.com or visit Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
To learn more about the Biodesign Sprint or speak with the organizers, please contact:
Alex Kisielewski, Partnerships Director, Biodesign Challenge: info@biodesignchallenge.org