ChiTownBio
ChiTownBio is a biomakerspace in Chicago, Illinois. Opened in 2017, it provides laboratory space for independent research as well as workshops and courses for the local community to learn more AbOUT biology.
Facilities
ChiTownBio, a 501(c)(3) organization,, operates as a BSL-1 community biotechnology laboratory in a storefront facility on the north side of Chicago. The laboratory contains wet lab equipment and research infrastructure, including bioreactors, incubators, autoclaves, laminar flow cabinets, PCR machines, thermal cyclers, centrifuges, microscopes, electrophoresis equipment, refrigerated storage, and a -80°C freezer for handling biological samples.
Education
ChiTownBio offers multiple workshops, including a microbial painting workshop, and also host virtual seminars, outdoor nature talks, and virtual book clubs. The makerspace provides community members with access to laboratory equipment and reagents at reduced cost to support participation in the scientific community.
History
In 2011, Andrew Scarpelli attended SB5.0, a conference hosted by the Biobricks foundation where he was inspired by Dr. Ellen Jorgenson, the founder of GenSpace, to create a biomakerspace of his own. In 2014, Scarpelli entered the concept as "Public DIY biology hackspace" into RedEye Chicago's Big Idea Contest, where it became a finalist in the Technology category. Later, in 2017, ChiTownBio was founded by Andy Scarpelli, Khalid Alam, Jordan Harrison, and Isaac Larkin.
In 2017, ChiTownBio held a drink-and-draw event.
In 2022, ChiTownBio won the Non-Student Winner title at the Biodesign Sprint, sponsored by Mars Wrigley, in the Biodesign Challenge. Their entry was a snack bar called Sprouted that incorporated fruits, nuts, and berries indigenous to Chicago, specifically intended to promote urban gardening.
They also had a booth in 2025 Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest.
See also
- Hackerspace
- List of Biomakerspaces in the United States