J. Craig Venter Institute

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us in Hawaiʻi for the first International SynBYSS Conference! It was a successful and dynamic 4 days filled with insightful science, networking and fun. The SynBYSS Webinar Series continues in 2025, and we are planning for the Second International SynBYSS conference in Europe in 2026. Stay tuned for more details.

A new Science article from 30+ leading international scientists including several JCVI researchers, examines the potential dangers of building ‘mirror life’ — organisms composed entirely of mirror-image biological molecules. https://lnkd.in/eQbGsWMY Known life is “homochiral” — all DNA/RNA uses "right-handed" nucleotides and proteins use "left-handed" amino acids. Creating mirror-image life would be a radical departure from nature's blueprint. l @JCVenterInst researchers, examines the potential dangers of building ‘mirror life’ — organisms composed entirely of mirror-image biological molecules JCVI's John Glass explains: "The danger of mirror life is its fundamental difference. Mirror bacteria might be unassailable by the non-mirror world as a consequence of their basic reversed molecular structure. A self-replicating organism built from mirror components would likely be invisible to many of the processes nature has evolved that keep a species in check." While mirror life creation is likely a decade away, now is the crucial time to talk about this. A 300-page technical report examines current barriers to the creation of mirror bacteria and outlines the potential risks they would pose. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/eVkcVv-V The authors call for a broad discussion among researchers, policymakers, funders, industry, civil society, and the public to chart a path ahead, in light of this analysis. More from JCVI: https://lnkd.in/eWZQR35W

From exciting keynote speakers to inspiring networking opportunities, it’s been an incredible experience so far at the first International SynBYSS Conference. We’re grateful for our host, University of Hawaii at Manoa, for providing such a stunning backdrop, further fueling the collaboration and conversation throughout each of the sessions.

We would like to thank our generous sponsors for their support of the International SynBYSS Conference. Your commitment enables us to bring together a diverse and dynamic community of experts, innovators, and thought leaders in synthetic biology, creating an exceptional experience for all attendees. Your partnership plays a crucial role in the success of the event, and we are deeply grateful for your continued support in advancing the field.   

This November, we proudly celebrate Native American Heritage Month! Let’s honor the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Native communities while also acknowledging the challenges they face, both past and present. One such challenge is Native American populations often being underrepresented in clinical research and scientific studies. JCVI has been exploring collaborative efforts to bridge this gap and help ensure a more equitable balance in access to science and healthcare.  https://lnkd.in/gZCPsj_G

Registration for the International SynBYSS Conference has been EXTENDED through Sunday, November 24! This is your final opportunity to participate in the conference and contribute to the discussions that will help shape the future of synthetic biology. https://lnkd.in/ej9f3SyQ

We’re excited to welcome Ansa Biotechnologies, Inc. as a Bronze Level Sponsor for the International SynBYSS Conference! Join us at University of Hawai’i at Manoa from December 9-12, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience-register today! https://lnkd.in/eiQbZMZU

If you're passionate about advancing scientific research and want to be part of a collaborative team, we want to hear from you! JCVI is a premier not-for-profit genomics research institute with over 120 dedicated scientists and staff in San Diego, CA and Rockville, MD. Check out our available positions and help us shape the future of genomics. https://lnkd.in/eAgyAkKY #hiring #genomics

Today we honor all the courageous individuals who have served in the armed forces. Their dedication and sacrifice have paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy every day. Happy #VeteransDay!

Don’t forget to register for the International SynBYSS Conference by Friday, November 8! This applies to all participants, including committee members, keynote and invited speakers, panelists, and sponsors. Reminder, this is an in-person only event, we hope to see you there! https://lnkd.in/eiQbZMZU