What is required for responsible research and innovation (RRI) in the field of Synthetic Biology? Regardless of whether it will “engineer life”, Synthetic Biology employs design principles where evolution used to reign. But where does it see the limits of design? These are some of the questions the Science and Society Session Engineering Life?

European science policy calls for “Responsible Research and Innovation”. This applies to Synthetic Biology even in its early stages of fundamental research. Regardless of whether it will “engineer life”, Synthetic Biology employs design principles where evolution used to reign. It builds up complexity to meet the demands of human practice rather than break down and simplify things to meet the demands of human understanding. How does it select its research problems and what values guide its search for solutions? Where does it see the limits of design? Who are those researchers that are the public face of Synthetic Biology? And which interests guide the development of its first commercial products?
What, then, is required for responsible research and innovation (RRI) in the field of Synthetic Biology? In order to answer this question, two perspectives must be brought together – that of governance, science policy, ethical deliberation, and that of research, its practice and economic prospects.

As part of its grantmaking focus on the life sciences, the Schering Stiftung supports the realization of Science and Society Sessions (Schering Sessions) during scientific conferences. The Schering Sessions are based on the observation that science has a growing impact on our lives, and that this is increasingly perceived so by the public. As a result, scientists are required to reflect more deeply on the consequences of their work and how to communicate their work to the public.
Looking at the sciences from a variety of perspectives, including sociology, philosophy, ethics, and art, the Science & Society Sessions seek to inspire discussions that may help scientists gain a new perspective on their work and its public image and that may lead to novel interdisciplinary collaborations.
Please find more info on the sessions and on the call for applications here.