Karol Duque — HTGAA Spring 2026

My Bio-Builder Notebook

Documenting my journey through synthetic biology — from 3D printing to genetic circuits

What’s This All About?

Learning Synthetic Biology

As a biomedical engineer with a background in 3D printing and electronics, I'm learning how to design and build with living systems.

Focus on Sustainability

Interested in tools that improve health and support the environment, with special focus on ocean health and climate solutions.

Hands-On Builder

I learn by doing. This notebook documents my experiments, projects, and discoveries throughout the HTGAA course.

Course Sections

Weekly Homework

My notes, reflections, and learning progress from each week of the course.

Week 1: Principles and Practices Week 2: DNA Read, Write, and Edit Week 3: Lab Automation Week 4: Protein Design Part I Week 5: Protein Design Part II Week 6: Genetic Circuits Part I - Assembly Technologies Week 7: Genetic Circuits Part II - Neuromorphic Circuits View All Entries

Lab Experiments

Hands-on work with biological systems — techniques, protocols, and results.

Week 1: Pipetting Practice Week 2: Lab DNA Gel Art Week 3: Lab Opentrons Art View Lab Reports

Projects

Applying synthetic biology to real challenges — from concept to prototype.

Individual Final Project Group Final Project View Projects

About Me

Karol Duque

Background: Biomedical Engineering
Interests: 3D printing, electronics (tinkering), arts & crafts, hiking, nature
Favorite Color: Green

Why I'm Here:
"I want to see what happens when we treat biology as building material. Can we create tools that help oceans, animals, and people? Let's find out!"

My Learning Goals

Short-Term

• Master basic lab techniques
• Understand genetic circuits
• Complete first bio-project

Long-Term

• Build ocean health and animal monitoring sensors
• Combine biology with electronics
• Create sustainable solutions

Contact

Email: karduq144@gmail.com
LinkedIn: karol-duque-311772272
Local Node: Lifefabs

Looking for: Collaborators for bio-hardware projects, feedback on designs, and fellow nature enthusiasts!

"as long as i try, i'm probably doing better than i think"
— my reminder to keep going