MIT Synbio:Constitution

Syn Bio for Undergradutes at MIT (SynBUM)

Note: Placeholder name because Jon said he liked it, and no one else commented :P

Purpose/ Mission Statement

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The purpose of [SYNBUM] is to communicate the potential, as well as ethical considerations of synthetic biology for the MIT community and beyond. Specifically, [SYNBUM] strives towards the following goals:

• Education and Outreach

  To generate interest and meaningful dialogue in the prospects of synthetic biology, its uses, and both scientific and ethical considerations; to further understanding of and exposure to the laboratory tools and process of synthetic biology; to connect with the MIT community and beyond to generate excitement for synthetic biology;

• Networking

  To provide opportunities for the undergraduate community to network with graduate students, professors, and industry leaders with similar interests in synthetic biology;

• Research and Academic Opportunities

  To provide the MIT undergraduate community unique opportunities in both coursework and research.

Definition of Membership

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1. Any member of the MIT community is eligible to become a member of [SYNBUM]. There is no course preference for students; we especially encourage students without biology backgrounds. One is considered a member of this organization in any given academic term if she has attended at least one club activity and one meeting in the preceding or current term and is a member of the [SYNBUM] mailing list.
2. The organization’s membership will at all times consist of at least 5 MIT students and be more than half MIT students.
3. This organization will not discriminate based on any characteristic listed in MIT's Nondiscrimination Statement.
4. If this organization charges any monetary dues, there will be exceptions made for students that cannot afford these dues.

ASA Governance Clause

The [SYNBUM] agrees to abide by the rules and regulations of the Association of Student Activities, and its executive board. This constitution, amendments to it, and the by-laws of this organization shall be subject to review by the ASA Executive Board to insure that they are in accordance with the aforementioned rules and regulations.