Emmanuelle Charpentier: "You need time to do the work in a proper way"

Transcript

Emanuel Sha Pontier. Yes. Hello. So, uh could you just tell us how how did you hear the news? Um the general secretary Gan Hansen uh called me at 10:59. Very precise. And I mean there's been so much speculation about the price for so long. Uh it must have been strange because in some ways you must have been expecting a call. You know, I have been r... Read More

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses their reaction to receiving the news of winning the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work on CRISPR. They talk about the impact of CRISPR on the field of biology and the wide range of applications it has created. They also reflect on the significance of being female laureates and how it sends a positive message to young women in science. The speaker shares insights into their collaboration with Jennifer Doudna and emphasizes the importance of solid, precise work in scientific research. They also address the potential misuse of CRISPR technology and the need for responsible regulation.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the speaker react to hearing the news of winning the Nobel Prize in Chemistry?

The speaker expressed their disbelief and overwhelming emotions upon receiving the news. They were reminded many times that their work on CRISPR would eventually be recognized, but the actual moment of hearing it felt surreal. They credited their colleagues and former team members for supporting their research.

Q: Can you explain the impact that CRISPR has had in the field?

The speaker describes the explosion of knowledge and publications in the field of CRISPR biology. They highlight how CRISPR has simplified genetic research and opened up new possibilities in various organisms. The development of CRISPR has also created job opportunities in biotechnology and communication fields.

Q: How does the speaker's background in microbiology influence their perspective on CRISPR?

As a microbiologist interested in infectious diseases, the speaker feels that their field of research is not always well recognized. However, the discovery and applications of CRISPR have shown that there is still much to learn in microbiology. They believe that nature has a lot to teach us and that studying bacteria has changed their view of humanity.

Q: Do the speaker and Jennifer Doudna being recognized as female laureates hold any important significance?

The speaker acknowledges the importance of being female laureates and believes it sends a positive message to girls and young women interested in science. They emphasize that ultimate recognition should be independent of gender and that it is possible for females to achieve it. The speaker sees the recognition of two women as reflecting the current progress being made towards gender equality in science.

Q: Can you talk about the speaker's collaboration with Jennifer Doudna?

The collaboration between the speaker and Jennifer Doudna was intense but short. They joined forces because their research yielded clear and significant results regarding CRISPR Cas9. Both scientists shared a common understanding and recognition of the importance of their work, leading them to work together efficiently. Their collaboration was marked by precision and depth in their research approach.

Q: Why does the speaker believe that solid work is more important than publication numbers or impact factor?

The speaker believes it is important to emphasize solid work and not just focus on publication numbers or impact factors. They clarify that impactful scientific progress comes from in-depth research and understanding, not just from high-profile publications. They hope that the scientific community does not lose sight of the value of dedication and quality work in the pursuit of advancements.

Q: How does the speaker address the potential misuse of CRISPR technology?

The speaker acknowledges the potential for misuse of CRISPR technology but highlights the distinction between its safe usage in research and development and the controversial area of editing the human germline. They also mention that modifying multiple genes simultaneously using CRISPR will be a significant technical challenge. The speaker acknowledges that there may be unwanted experiments in the future but emphasizes the need for responsible regulation.

Q: What does the speaker think about the speed of scientific advancements compared to society's ability to handle them?

The speaker acknowledges that sometimes scientific advancements outpace society's ability to fully comprehend and regulate the associated technologies. They highlight that this is not unique to CRISPR technology and is a common issue with many technologies. The fast pace of scientific progress requires society to actively reflect upon and consider the ethical implications and regulations surrounding emerging technologies.

Q: Can you summarize the importance of responsible regulation for CRISPR technology?

The speaker emphasizes the need for responsible regulation to ensure the safe and ethical usage of CRISPR technology. They point out that the technology's potential to modify the human germline is a separate and more complex issue. While the speaker acknowledges that some unwanted experiments may occur, they believe that it will be challenging to modify multiple genes simultaneously. They also state that dialogue between scientific advancements and societal considerations is necessary to navigate any potential ethical dilemmas.

Q: What is the speaker's parting message?

The speaker expresses gratitude for the interview and congratulates the interviewer. They hope to have more in-depth conversations about the important topics covered.