Authors: Camillo Meinhart and Markus Schmidt. © 2017
Length: 22:15 min
Length: 31:02 min
Synthetic Biology is an emerging field in at the intersection of biotechnology, information technology and biochemistry with the aim to make biology easier to engineer. But what exactly are synthetic biologists doing? And who are the people behind the technology planing to design and engineer living material? This film takes you on a journey around Europe showing current developments in this field, portraying five outstanding research projects – funded by the European Science Foundation – and the scientists that drive them.
DIVERSEEDS: Plant Genetic Resources For Food and Agriculture
Length: 50:27 plus bonus material
In agriculture, the widespread adoption of a few improved varieties has narrowed the genetic base of important food crops and led to the disappearance of hundreds of landraces. Conserving and using plant genetic diversity is vital in meeting the world’s future development needs in Europe, Asia and elsewhere. This documentary shows why biodiversity is important for agriculture and how it is conserved and used in many different locations in Europe and Asia.
SYNBIOSAFE: Synthetic biology and its social and ethical implications
Authors: Markus Schmidt and Camillo Meinhart. © 2009
Length: 38:19 plus bonus material
Synthetic biology is the design and construction of new biological systems not found in nature. It aims at creating novel organisms for practical purposes. With many anticipated benefits and a high impact on society, the societal and ethical aspects of this discipline, as well as its possible risks, are becoming increasingly prominent. This film shows not only what synthetic biology is, but also what it could mean for our society, economy and the environment.