a16z Podcast | When (and How) Biology Becomes Engineering | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Biology is transitioning from a stochastic and risky science to a more methodical engineering approach, allowing for the creation of complex and functional biological systems.

Key Insights

• 🔬 Biology is transitioning from a stochastic and risky science to a more methodical and engineering-like approach.
• 🥳 Modular parts, similar to Legos, are being used in biology to create complex and functional systems.
• 🥺 Academia is creating new departments focused on bioengineering, leading to interdisciplinary research and opportunities for startups.
• 👻 The shift towards engineering principles in biology allows for the design and engineering of biological systems, leveraging the properties of biological materials.
• 🔬 Engineering disciplines such as electrical engineering, material science, and computer science are being applied to biology.
• ✋ Companies that can demonstrate the ability to design and engineer biological systems with high predictability are gaining traction.
• 🥺 The shift towards engineering in biology has the potential to make the impossible possible, leading to advancements in healthcare and sustainability.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What is the difference between science and engineering in biology?

Science in biology involves hypothesis testing and iterative revisions, whereas engineering focuses on the design, construction, and refinement of biological systems using modular parts.

Q: Can biology use the concept of Legos to create functional systems?

Yes, the idea of using modular parts in biology, similar to Legos, allows for the design and creation of complex and functional biological systems. Companies like Asimov are working on developing these parts.

Q: How is academia responding to the shift towards engineering in biology?

Academia is adapting by creating new departments focused on bioengineering, where engineers and biologists collaborate to drive innovation. This shift is fostering interdisciplinary research and creating opportunities for startups.

Q: How is engineering principles being applied to biology?

Various engineering disciplines such as electrical engineering, material science, and computer science are being applied to biology. These principles are being used to design and engineer biological systems and leverage the properties of biological materials.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Biology is moving from the stochastic world of science to a more methodical and engineering-like approach, where complex biological systems can be designed and built.

• The concept of using biological "Legos" or modular parts to create functional systems is emerging, with companies like Asimov working on developing these parts.

• Academia is adapting to this shift by creating new departments focused on bioengineering, which is driving innovation and creating interesting opportunities for startups.