Chemistry for Tomorrow's World 2012: Synthetic Biology: Challenges and Opportunities for the UK

5.30 pm, 14 November 2012
Chemistry Centre, Burlington House, London

Introduction

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 is hosting 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.

Panellists

Chair (London):
Dr Ehsan Masood - Editor, Research Fortnight

Panel (London):
Ms Helena Paul - Co-director, Econexus
Professor Robert Edwards - University of York and Chief Scientist, Food and Environment Research Agency
Miss Alexandra 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 will take questions from an audience at the University of Bristol via a live video link, and will respond to followers' questions tweeted to @RSC_Comms and @RSC_Roadmap.

The whole event will be webcast live and available to watch on The Reaction from 6pm.

Registration

This event is free to attend, but delegates must pre-register to guarantee admittance. If online registration is unavailable please contact RSC Roadmap directly with your name and contact details to secure your place.

Please note that online registration from this site is for the event at the Chemistry Centre in London. If you would rather join the audience in Bristol please visit the University of Bristol website.