Synthetic Biology: Challenges and Opportunities for the UK
For better or worse, synthetic biology is featuring more and more often in the media as scientists make new advances that attract headlines. News stories highlight some of the many ways in which synthetic biology could improve people’s lives - from bio-energy and chemicals all the way through to drug delivery and regenerative medicine. But increased media attention also raises important issues around ethics, regulation and public acceptance.
In collaboration with the Biochemical Society, BioCentre and the University of Bristol, the Royal Society of Chemistry hosted a panel discussion and debate to explore the science and ethics of synthetic biology and what it means for the UK.
In order to stimulate discussion and inspire clear thinking, this event will bring together senior members of the scientific community from industry and academia, along with policy makers with whom we can explore some of the questions and perceptions surrounding synthetic biology.
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WATCH THE DEBATE
Panellists
Chair (London):
Dr Ehsan Masood – Editor, Research Fortnight
Panel (London):
Dr Helena Paul – Co-director, Econexus
Professor Robert Edwards - University of York and Chief Scientist, Food and Environment Research Agency
Miss Daisy Ginsberg - Synthetic biology writer and commentator
Dr Lionel Clarke – Chairman, UK Synthetic Biology Roadmap Coordination Group
Chair (Bristol):
Professor Dek Woolfson - University of Bristol
As well as an audience in London, the panel took questions from an audience at the University of Bristol via a live video link, and responded to followers’ questions on Twitter @RSC_Comms or @RSC_Roadmap