Connect with today's leaders of scientific discovery. The Explorer Series showcases acclaimed scientists, Museum curators, authors and adventurers. Join us as we welcome renowned experts and celebrated explorers, and listen as they illuminate breakthroughs and challenges facing natural history, natural science, human health and sustainability.

REWRITING THE CODE OF LIFE WITH CRISPR

The 20th century witnessed the birth of molecular genetics--the field of biology focused on DNA and its role in heredity, genetic variation, and disease--and culminated in completion of the Human Genome Project. But, until recently, the ability to rewrite DNA in living organisms remained elusive. Dr. Sternberg will discuss the revolutionary technology called CRISPR and its launch of a new era of precision genetic manipulation. Diseases and cancers could be erased in patients, but so, too, could heritable genetic changes be engineered in human embryos. What will we choose to do with this awesome power?