The Science of Resurrecting Extinct Species: A Journey with Beth Shapiro
Introduction to Beth Shapiro and Her Work
Beth Shapiro, a scientist in the field of ancient DNA, shares her journey from broadcast journalism to becoming the chief science officer at Colossal. Her work involves extracting DNA from ancient remains, which she describes as being a modern-day explorer. She recently transitioned from academia to Colossal, a company known for groundbreaking work in de-extinction. 0:12
The Challenges and Controversies in Academia
Shapiro discusses the scarcity mindset prevalent in academia, where competition for resources leads to negativity and gatekeeping. This environment often stifles innovation and creates resistance to groundbreaking work like hers. She highlights the importance of podcasts as a unique distribution network that can bypass traditional academic gatekeeping. 1:16
From Journalism to Science
Shapiro recounts her early career in broadcast journalism and her eventual shift to science after taking a field geology and archaeology class. This experience inspired her to pursue a degree in science, leading her to work in ancient DNA. Her fascination with storytelling and science continues to drive her work today. 2:55
Adventures in Siberia
Shapiro shares her experiences in Siberia, where she conducted fieldwork in challenging conditions. She describes the harsh environment, encounters with mosquitoes, and the unique lifestyle of the Dolgon community. These experiences highlight the unpredictable nature of fieldwork and the resilience required to conduct research in remote locations. 6:51
The Science of Ancient DNA
Shapiro explains the process of extracting and analyzing ancient DNA, which involves working in specialized labs to prevent contamination. This technology has allowed scientists to reconstruct genomes of extinct species, such as Neanderthals, and gain insights into human evolution. 35:05
The Ethics and Potential of De-Extinction
Shapiro addresses the ethical considerations of de-extinction, emphasizing the potential benefits for conservation and biodiversity. She argues that humans have always played a role in shaping ecosystems and that new technologies can help mitigate the impact of human activity on the environment. 128:11
Future Prospects and Challenges
Looking ahead, Shapiro discusses the potential for using gene editing technologies to address challenges like climate change and species extinction. She stresses the importance of careful evaluation and regulation to ensure these technologies are used responsibly. 134:13