DTN 021: The Seductions of Big Science

The Seductions of Big Science

“The macroscientific view is to zoom out and think about Big Science as being part of a vast and varied portfolio of institutions that advance science and technology. In effect, this collective distribution of institutions is a series of bets on the approaches that will shift the scientific and technological frontier. The question that science strategy should confront is: does the existing portfolio of scientific institutions in a society produce the rate and type of progress that is desirable? We need policy levers that allow us to dial up and dial down the influence and number of various types of institutions as needed. This is not only because what is “desirable progress” may shift over time: Big Science may be the most efficacious tool to achieve our ends at one moment, the weirdo fringe scientist at another moment.” (Macroscience)

The State of Deep Tech

“In the State of Deep Tech, we explore what innovators are building today and celebrate the XB100, the definitive ranking of 100 of the most promising deep tech startups. XPRIZE and Bessemer partnered to create the list, and a panel of scientists helped rank the companies. From quantum computing to rocket technology to next-generation biotherapeutics, the companies in this report are tackling problems on a planetary scale. Their speed and success will ultimately determine the plot for our next chapter of humanity.” (Bessemer Venture Partners)

Synthetic human embryos created in groundbreaking advance

“Scientists have created synthetic human embryos using stem cells, in a groundbreaking advance that sidesteps the need for eggs or sperm. Scientists say these model embryos, which resemble those in the earliest stages of human development, could provide a crucial window on the impact of genetic disorders and the biological causes of recurrent miscarriage. The structures do not have a beating heart or the beginnings of a brain, but include cells that would typically go on to form the placenta, yolk sac and the embryo itself.” (The Guardian)