Biotechnology
From spider silk shoes to algae fuel, welcome to the new age of biotech
A new era has arrived, one where we can harness biological organisms to create consumer materials that grow themselves.
Global Issue
Industry
Economy
System Initiative
Global Issue
Industry
Economy
System Initiative
Biotechnology
Science & Technology
DNA libraries could help us find new drugs
A new technology can clone thousands of genes at once and compile libraries of proteins from DNA samples, potentially speeding up the search for new drugs.
Future of Environment and Natural Resource Security
Nature-inspired design: how the Amazon can help us solve humanity's greatest challenges
Biological systems in the Amazon are the result of millions of years of evolution. Emulating its natural processes could give rise to a myriad of urgently needed sustainable technologies.
How a new generation of machines will ‘see’ like humans
Machines that don’t just see, but sense and interact with the environment around them, could end blindness and help us to build accident-free autonomous vehicles.
Biotechnology
How scientists are using engineered cells to defeat disease
Cell-engineering is creating a new generation of therapies to target intractable diseases, including cancer.
Human Enhancement
We might have the technology to colonize another planet, but will we have healthy children?
A new study suggests humans may be able to have healthy offspring in space.
Human Enhancement
The latest way to keep your phone secure? Your gait
Research shows that when we walk or move, we create kinetic energy in a way that is unique to each of us.
Biotechnology
How do we think?
Harvard scientists are beginning to provide answers to one of the thorniest questions in psychology: How do we think?
Biotechnology
Solar power: Do the ends justify the means?
Scientists have just discovered massive amounts of a rare metal called tellurium, a key element in cutting-edge solar technology.
Biotechnology
This technology could make computers even more like human brains
Scientists have created an artificial synapse to help computers better recreate the way the human brain processes information.
Biotechnology
Viruses aren't all bad. Here's why
Many of the human proteins or other molecules present in your cells and encoded in your DNA contain viruses.
Biotechnology
The anti-obesity protein
Researchers may have found a way to halt the development of both type 2 diabetes and obesity in humans using a recently discovered protein.
Biotechnology
How to turn the inside of plants into electric circuits to make electricity
New research looks at tapping plants’ energy directly by turning their internal structures into electric circuits.
Biotechnology
Say hello to the Growroom, your new indoor garden
Space10, Ikea's innovation lab, has designed a piece of living furniture that can feed quite a few people.
Human Enhancement
How to ensure future brain technologies will help and not harm society
Future opportunities for cognitive enhancement and control through non-invasive brain stimulation have raised profound ethical, legal, and social questions. What is societally acceptable ...