CRISPR gene-editing technologies have been in use for over a decade, and thousands of researchers in laboratories across the globe are applying them in innovative ways to create real-world solutions that can improve the lives of humans and enhance the environment. With the recent approval of Casgevy as a treatment modality for inherited blood disorders, CRISPR has accelerated our ability to develop new therapies for previously untreatable diseases. This breakthrough opens the possibility of curing more than 5,000 genetic diseases and cancers, including conditions such as blindness and cystic fibrosis. The ability to make precise changes to plant genomes can replicate the effects of traditional breeding techniques to develop new crop varieties that are resistant to pests and drought, while also offering increased nutritional benefits. Globally, approximately 40% of crops are lost each year due to floods, pests, and other external factors. Gene-editing technologies have the potential to transform the agri-biotech industry, enabling resilient food production to support global needs for decades to come. At a time when people, the planet, and industries require CRISPR-derived solutions, we are committed to engaging students with the scientific, social, leadership, and ethical dimensions of CRISPR. This is a vital step in our collective journey towards creating a better world for all
SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being
RESEARCH / KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE
Westminster students discuss groundbreaking cancer research
Westminster students speak to media on groundbreaking cancer research and achieve international industry internships | University of Westminster Gene Editors of the Future members from the University of Westminster have participated in a televised roundtable discussion on a recent breakthrough in cancer treatment. Applied Biotechnology MSc students and Gene Editors of The Future members Harshana Chaurasia and Nadine Benyahia spoke on the show Roundtable on TNT World about mRNA-based vaccines that work similarly to COVID-19 vaccines that can be tailored for cancer treatment. During the discussion, Harshana and Nadine shared their excitement and highlighted the importance of understanding the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to cancer, citing examples of the pervasive chemicals that surround us daily—a topic central to their extended Master’s project at the University’s Genome Engineering Laboratory.
SDG 4 Quality Education
COMMUNITY
Westminster students take on community engagement roles
Westminster students take on community engagement roles to support Members of Parliament | University of Westminster Students from the University of Westminster’s School of Life Sciences studying Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours and Applied Biotechnology MSc, have made significant contributions to several high-profile community engagement events, supporting the London Mayoral Assembly and Members of Parliament. The students in the University’s Gene Editors of the Future programme have played roles ranging from logistical support to leadership, showcasing their diverse skills and dedication to community engagement and service. Over the year, students have help as key floor setup for the London Mayoral Assembly, managing strategic arrangement of the venue, as well as chairing a citizens’ general election assembly.
SDG 9 Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
RESEARCH / KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE
Gene Editors of the Future
The University of Westminster has celebrated students taking part in the Gene Editors of the Future initiative, which gives students from the School of Life Sciences the chance to work with the Nobel Prize-winning technology CRISPR and bridge innovation with curiosity and ambition. Gene Editors of the Future is a vibrant student community within Westminster and is the longest and largest extracurricular initiative that focuses on the technology CRISPR. The technology can be used to selectively modify the DNA of living organisms and has forever changed the landscape of genetic engineering across organisms. Around 98 students qualified for the basic certificate in the current iteration and the event celebrated their achievements with a CRISPR/Cas9 basic training in genome engineering certificate. In the past three years, the programme has collaborated with over 500 students. Westminster students speak to media on groundbreaking cancer research and achieve international industry internships
