Niko McCarty on Building Asimov Press and Writing for Ambitious Readers
Mar 5, 2025
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Niko McCarty, the founding editor of Asimov Press, shares his journey from biology and science journalism to leading a revolutionary publication. He discusses the unique blend of science fiction with rigorous scientific writing to engage a diverse audience. The conversation dives into groundbreaking biotech advancements, including the ethical innovations in the chicken industry, which aim to reduce male chick disposal. Niko also explores the future of biotechnology, emphasizing the transformative potential of new measurement technologies and AI in biological research.
Niko McCarty emphasizes the need for profound scientific writing that engages both scientists and general readers through complex biological topics.
Asimov Press's incorporation of science fiction aims to make intricate scientific concepts more accessible and inspire excitement about biological advancements.
Deep dives
Nico McCarty's Path to Science Journalism
Nico McCarty's journey into science journalism began with his early passion for writing, encouraged by his father to pursue science instead. After studying biology and journalism at institutions renowned for their literary contributions, he melded his scientific knowledge with his journalistic ambitions. He initially reported on local science topics for a community magazine while furthering his studies, but it was the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that catalyzed his return to writing. Transitioning to a Master’s program in Science Journalism at NYU, Nico's proactive outreach to influential figures in the field significantly shaped his career trajectory.
The Vision Behind Asimov Press
Asimov Press aims to produce profound and intricate writings on the forefront of biology, aspiring to be the 'Works in Progress for biology.' Nico's motivation stems from witnessing a gap in substantial writing on complex biological topics and impressive advancements like gene therapies. The press strives to engage a diverse and ambitious readership, including scientists and general audiences, fostering a community eager for detailed explorations of biology. Despite initially publishing anthologies, Asimov Press is expanding into original book publications, adding a new dimension to its mission.
Innovative Approaches in Science Fiction and Print Publishing
Incorporating science fiction into its repertoire, Asimov Press aims to inspire excitement about biological advancements through narrative storytelling. Fiction is considered a strategic entry point to engage broader audiences by merging scientific concepts with creative narratives, thus making complex topics more accessible. The transition into print publishing serves not only as a credibility enhancer but also as a means to foster a deeper connection with readers through beautifully crafted physical books. By experimenting with unique offerings like a book published in both print and DNA forms, Asimov Press seeks to merge traditional and innovative publishing avenues.
The Future of Biology and Technology Integration
The conversation highlights an optimistic vision for the future of biology, particularly through advancements in measurement technology that can enhance our understanding of biological systems. Innovations such as real-time RNA sequencing without cell death could lead to profound insights into cellular mechanisms and more robust engineering applications. Furthermore, creating accessible and inexpensive protein synthesis methods is seen as a potential game-changer, allowing for rapid design and production of proteins with diverse functionalities. By envisioning a future where AI aids in biology, Nico alludes to the vast possibilities and societal benefits that could emerge from an integrated approach to biological discovery.
In this episode of The Orthogonal Bet, host Samuel Arbesman speaks with Niko McCarty, the founding editor of Asimov Press. With a background in biology and science journalism, McCarty now leads Asimov Press, a publication dedicated to deep, thoughtful articles at the frontiers of biology and its history.
Arbesman, a longtime admirer of McCarty’s writing, was eager to explore his insights for many reasons. As the builder of a new press and a curator of compelling scientific narratives, McCarty has a unique perspective on science journalism. But beyond that, he also has his finger on the pulse of the future of biology itself.
Their conversation delves into McCarty’s journey into science journalism and how his newsletter became a transformative force in his career. They discuss his vision for Asimov Press, the reasoning behind publishing science fiction short stories alongside rigorous scientific writing, and the press’s expansion into print publishing—offering a glimpse into how McCarty envisions the future of science communication.
When it comes to biology, Niko provides so much wisdom into how to think about the cutting-edge in biology and biotech. They explore the levers that create biological progress, and Niko’s vision of the future in biology.