Building Life: The Promise and Challenges of Synthetic Biology (Feb.23, 2011)

Jason Papin, Ph.D. (Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia) provided a background on synthetic biology as it intersects with the fundamentals of biology, technological processes utilizing tools and techniques such as DNA sequencing, fabrication, modeling, and mathematical computation. Dr. Papin illustrated the applications of synthetic biology with research involving insulin, antimalarial compounds, and the development of animal and plant breeds that are resistant to disease. Michael Rodemeyer, J.D. (Lecturer in Science, Technology and Society, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia) discussed the ethical implications of playing God, and concerns of biosecurity and biosafety within greater uncertainty and complexity.