In recent years a growing number of researchers have been moving toward creating new life forms. Some, like the maverick Craig Venter are trying to create algae that consumes sunlight and produces biodiesel. Others are trying to devise a complete, functioning cell.

These and other efforts by engineers, computer scientists, physicists and biologists to break nature's monopoly on the creation of new life. Despite some promising advances, not everyone is convinced it can be done, including Francis Collins, the current director of the NIH.

Join Carlos Bustamante and John Kuriyan as they discuss the biological possibilities and the ethical implications of this question.

Speakers:
Carlos Bustamante, Professor of Physics and of Molecular & Cell Biology, UC Berkeley
John Kuriyan, Professor of Molecular & Cell Biology and of Chemistry, UC Berkeley

About Wonderfest Dialogues:
Wonderfest dialogues between pairs of researchers reveal the human/emotional side of science, and they entrust the listener with the responsibility of making up his/her own mind. They are divided into 3 equal segments: 30 minutes of introductory background remarks, 30 minutes of “debate,” and then 30 minutes of questions from the audience. High school science faculty serve as discussion moderators, and student volunteers offer assistance at each venue.