Synergizing Synbio & Longevity: A Panel Discussion at SynBioBeta 2023

<p>This special episode features a panel discussion moderated by Chris Patil at the 2023 SynBioBeta conference. The panel brings together leaders from the synthetic biology and longevity communities to explore opportunities for collaboration and cross-pollination between these fields. Panelists discuss the talent bottleneck in longevity research, challenges in translating new discoveries into therapies, the need for improved communication and education, and a shared vision for transforming health and society. The conversation covers existing resources for learning about longevity science, as well as calls to build new communities and networks to accelerate progress. Overall, the panel makes a compelling case that by coming together, synthetic biologists and longevity advocates can achieve breakthroughs that neither field could accomplish alone.</p><p><strong>Guests:</strong></p><ul><li>Nathan Cheng, Longevity Biotech Fellowship</li><li>Stephanie Dainow, Lifespan.io</li><li>Daniel Goodman, UCSF</li><li>Kat Kajderowicz, MIT/Whitehead</li></ul><br/><p><strong>The Details</strong></p><ul><li>The talent shortage in longevity research and need to attract people from outside the field</li><li>Challenges in developing model systems and translating discoveries from simple organisms to humans</li><li>The role of improved communication, education and “edutainment” in enabling progress</li><li>Existing online resources and communities in longevity science and synthetic biology</li><li>The <a href="https://www.timeinitiative.org/fellowship" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Time Fellowship</a> and opportunities to get involved for students and early career researchers</li><li>Visions for how synthetic biology could enhance longevity research, including new tools for measurement and diagnostics</li><li>Hopes for progress in the short, medium and long term, from gaining years of healthspan to far future transformational changes</li><li>The importance of breaking down silos, incentivizing collaboration and taking action