Synthetic Biology

Scientists and other creators tell us about the developments they’re watching for and the conversations they’ll be starting.

Synthetic biologists aim to transform the world with manmade organisms. What will it take to get there?

Manufactured meat may be safer and better — but first, producers need to get rid of the icky ingredients.

No more metal: Living electrodes promise safer, better ways to fix injuries and disease and grow new links between man and machine.

He built a powerful system for launching scientific ideas into startups. Can he do it again? by Po Bronson

What if your steak came from the greenhouse instead of the slaughterhouse?

Protein designers are preparing for quantum computers to point the way to new cures and green materials.

Student competitors turn jellyfish, microorganisms, and even hair cells into useful things.

An engineer lights up tiny tumors that doctors can’t see.

These startups are brewing up ways to save seafood, turn gas into protein, and make dairy alternatives less gross.

Hipster tea sludge is being transformed into a wonder material.

Stanford bioengineer Drew Endy doesn’t mind bringing dragons to life. What really scares him are humans. by David Ewing Duncan

This startup’s founders eat their own kibble—and they plan to feed you someday too.

A wonder material goes to work inside the body.

But it’s positive.