DNA of Defense: Alexander Titus on Advancing Biotech for National Security Challenges
Karl and Erum bring on Dr. Alexander Titus, a commissioner on the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, to explore the exciting and challenging intersections of biotechnology and policy. Alexander shares his experiences from his unique journey across academia, government, and industry, diving into the role of biosecurity, the potential of synthetic biology, and the emerging convergence of tech and bio. They discuss ambitious projects like de-extincting the woolly mammoth, advances in biodefense, and the impacts of AI on biotech innovation. It’s a conversation that sheds light on how cutting-edge biotech could shape the future and the necessary balance between innovation and ethical responsibility.
Chapters
00:00:00 - Behind the Scenes of Bureaucracy
00:00:30 - Democracy’s Turning Point
00:02:23 - A Fiery Day in Prospect Park
00:04:20 - How Spaces Shape Our Health
00:08:35 - Enter Alexander Titus: Biosecurity Visionary
00:10:13 - Biotech: The New Face of National Defense
00:15:09 - Where Tech and Policy Collide
00:23:10 - The Future of Biosecurity Unfolds
00:28:02 - Bold Science vs. Ethical Boundaries
00:30:24 - Robotics Meets Biotech: What’s Next?
00:33:29 - Hard Lessons from Cross-Industry Giants
00:35:49 - Innovation Clashes with Red Tape
00:36:11 - The Power of Expertise in Shaping Policy
00:42:26 - Biotech’s Hidden Environmental Risks
00:45:42 - The Commission’s Bold Path Forward
00:48:45 - Parting Thoughts: What Lies Ahead
Topics Covered: biotech, biosecurity, national security commission on emerging biotechnology, policy,