The winning project named "RAPID: RNA aptamer probe influenza detector" can differentiate between the common cold and influenza by detecting its RNA target sequence. RAPID has extensive potential applications as it is a mobile phone-based fluorometer which can detect signal of aptamer, and that patients can use RAPID at home to detect whether they are with the flu and seek medical advice in time.

iGEM is an annual worldwide premier synthetic biology competition designed for high school, undergraduate and postgraduate students to present their synthetic biology projects. It was established by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2004 to foster students' learning in synthetic biology, promote collaboration among students and nurture biology talent. It also aims to encourage multidisciplinary teams to build genetically engineered systems to create a positive contribution to their communities and the world. Participating teams are required to specify, design, build and test simple biological systems made from standard, interchangeable biological parts.

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