Scribner Seminar Program
Course Description
Coming of Age: Food, Drugs and Sex after the Biotech Revolution
Instructor(s): Kelly Sheppard, Chemistry
Description: The discovery of the DNA double helix by Watson and Crick in 1953 sparked a revolution in science that fundamentally changed our approach to such complex problems as human disease, famine, drug design, and fertility. Students in this seminar will explore the beauty of DNA structure and the powerful, modern techniques used to understand and manipulate this fascinating molecule. But what are the consequences of our ability to alter the genetic blueprint of an organism? Together, we will grapple with ethical issues associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs), stem cell research, gene therapy, and the possibility of selecting the traits of our offspring.
Course Offered: