In this episode of For Your Innovation, Ali Urman chats with Ben Lamm, CEO of Colossal, about the groundbreaking venture aimed at resurrecting extinct species, starting with the woolly mammoth. Lamm shares insights into his journey from tech to biotech, highlighting the fusion of artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and genetic editing to challenge the boundaries of science and conservation. He delves into the ecological and scientific ramifications of bringing back extinct species and addresses the technological, regulatory, and ethical challenges faced along the way. Join us as we explore how Colossal is not just redefining de-extinction but also contributing significantly to conservation efforts and genetic research.
"I don't have a background in biology. My background is in finance and accounting. And then I've always been passionate about starting businesses. And I've always just been massively curious. And it's funny, my massive curiosity kind of led me to the mammoth" -@federallamm
Key Points From This Episode:
- Ben Lamm discusses transitioning from tech entrepreneurship to biotech with Colossal
- Colossal aims to bring the woolly mammoth back from extinction, inspired by George Church
- Convergence of AI, automation, and biotech in de-extinction and conservation efforts
- FormBio: A spin-off providing AI tools for cell and gene therapy, aiding in biotech research
- The role of computational biology and gene editing in reconstructing extinct species
- The potential ecological benefits of reintroducing extinct species like the woolly mammoth
- Colossal's involvement in conservation efforts and genetic rescue, beyond de-extinction
- Challenges and advancements in xenotransplantation and disease resistance in wildlife
- Regulatory considerations for biotech innovations in de-extinction and gene editing
- Lamm's admiration for innovative minds like George Church, breaking barriers in science
