Upcoming Event: Reprogramming Life With Synthetic Biology

Are synthetic biology approaches to biotechnology as transformative as the semiconductor was to computing? This event, hosted by SynBioBeta and SynbiCITE, will track the rise of synthetic biology in Silicon Valley and explore its emergence in Silicon Fen.

Presentations from a range of companies involved in enabling and applying synthetic biology will be interspersed with networking over a drinks reception and buffet for academics, businesses, entrepreneurs and investors interested in the next wave of biological engineering.

Speaking, among others, will be John Cumbers, founder of SynBioBeta. John has a strong background in the synthetic biology industry as founder of SynBioBeta, a global activity hub and community of entrepreneurs, thought-leaders and investors. He was instrumental in starting NASA’s program in synthetic biology and most recently, the lead for planetary sustainability at the NASA Space Portal.  A super connector, community builder and consultant, John has devoted himself to helping those around him improve themselves and gain the resources that they need to break through scientific boundaries and succeed.

In his talk, ‘Synthetic Biology: New Tools For An Industry At An Inflection Point’ John will review the history of the field starting from an academic outreach pursuit to what is now a fledgling industry. He will contend that the latest wave of investment in the field is a positive sign and that the industry is now at an inflection. He will drive home that the fruits from academia coupled  with new VC money create  the perfect storm for this disruptive technology to unseat incumbents. Specifically, in markets ranging from pharma, biomaterials, chemicals, fuel and food which will allow for the  replacing of fossil fuels with more sustainable feedstocks and seeing widespread adoption along the way.

To find out more about the event, or to register your attendence, please visit http://synbiobeta.com/conferences/synbiobeta-activate-cambridge2015/