Spectacular Science

In 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick changed the face of biology by discovering the double helical structure of the DNA molecule. Both scientists went on to win the Nobel Prize for their work. It is less well-known that only three years prior to this discovery, Watson received his Ph.D. from IU.\nScience continues to forge new frontiers – especially at home. Construction of the new multidisciplinary science building Simon Hall and the acquisition of a new, highly developed genome sequencing machine, one of only 80 worldwide, are examples of how IU has continued to provide a future for such science-related research this year. \nMore recently, IU was the host of the 2007 American Genetics Association’s annual three-day symposium. Roughly three dozen of the brightest scientists in genetics descended on Bloomington to share their ideas on genome evolution. \nProfessor Michael Lynch, president of the AGA and distinguished professor here at IU, helped organize this year’s symposium on the “Mechanisms of Genome Evolution.” With 18 lecturers and biologists from all over the world in attendance, part of this year’s goal according to the AGA Web site, was to “ ... help bring about a synthesis of our understanding of genomic evolution from the standpoint of both population genetics and molecular biology…”\nThe contents and implications of the symposium were far-reaching: What would genomes look like in 20 years? How can science pursue further inquiry into this new and cutting-edge field? Since the discovery of genome sequencing, the study of genome evolution and its mechanisms has reached new heights. \nWhile most of the variation in genome sizes can be attributed to the differences in the repetitive fraction of DNA found in organisms, it is the mechanisms that contribute to variation in genome sizes and their relation to organismal fitness and evolution that is still obscure. \nI know what you must be thinking: Did she happen upon the lectures by accident? Did she get extra credit for attending? Is she interested in genome evolution?\nNo, no and not exactly. My interest is to see science reach the masses. \nEach year the AGA council chooses a new topic for the symposium, which is held on different college campuses. With such vast literature available and advances in communication, the need for such symposiums only increase. \n“There’s always a need for good science to be transmitted,” said William Etges, a professor of biological sciences at the University of Arkansas. “That’s what I came here for, because I wanted to learn new stuff.” \nOthers came to meet fellow colleagues in their discipline. Joshua Bayes, a graduate student at the Cancer Research Center in Seattle, for example, wanted to meet the people behind the papers he was reading.\nAs a biology student, I am proud of the progress science has made. Many of these lectures contain important information that won’t break the headlines. Scientists are doing their part to extend human knowledge of science, and IU continues leading the way. \nSurely, that’s reason enough to attend – and to stay tuned.