TED Talks Daily Laura Boykin: How we're using DNA tech to help farmers fight crop diseases 10, 2019
Oct 10, 2019
Laura Boykin, a computational biologist and activist, talks about her mission to aid nearly 800 million people reliant on cassava, a crop facing deadly viruses. She shares insights into her work using portable DNA labs and mini supercomputers to identify these threats within hours. Boykin emphasizes the importance of diversity in science and how innovation in technology empowers farmers to tackle food insecurity. Her initiatives, like the Cassava Virus Action Project, illustrate the transformative impact of genomic solutions in agriculture.
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Accidental Biologist
- Laura Boykin's first scientific job involved gluing dried plants onto paper in a herbarium.
- This experience introduced her to the intersection of genomics and computing.
Power of Supercomputing
- Genomics and computing revolutionized biological research.
- Supercomputers helped uncover complexities of diseases like influenza and hepatitis C.
Cassava Crisis
- East African scientists recruited Boykin to help save cassava crops, a staple food for millions.
- Whiteflies and viruses devastate cassava, leading to food insecurity and economic hardship.