Feb 1st: Cambridge Network Open Meeting

Professor Ananda Chakrabarty - 'Bioengineering Bugs'

We are delighted to welcome Professor Ananda Chakrabarty to Cambridge and invite all Cambridge Network members (and non-members, see below for details) to hear him talk at Robinson College on 1 February.

Prof Chakrabarty patented an oil-digesting bacterium that has helped clear up toxic oil spills such as the major one caused by the Exxon Valdez, considered one of the most devastating human-caused environmental disasters ever to occur at sea. But he is aware of the controversial nature of some IP laws. Professor Chakrabarty's view is that 'IP issues are often contentious and reasonable people may have very different opinions on its perceived societal values. This is particularly true on human gene patenting or what's described in European patent laws as "inventions that are contrary to public order or morality". The sense of morality is culture-based and highly variable.'

Professor Chakrabarty's talk will discuss how patents affect our society, both culturally and economically, and if there is something we can learn from the differences in the EU patent laws and those in the United States, that basically make patent-eligible 'anything under the sun that is made by man'. He will also tell the meeting about his own ongoing research into the development of anti-cancer multi-disease-targeting drugs from pathogenic bacteria.

Ananda Chakrabarty PhD is currently a Distinguished University Professor at the University of Illinois and his landmark research has since paved the way for many patents on genetically modified micro-organisms and other life forms, catapulting him into the international spotlight. Apart from being an eminent scientist, Professor Chakrabarty has been an advisor to judges, governments, and the United Nations.

The event is being held at Robinson College at 6pm on Monday 1 February, and it will be followed by a networking drinks reception. Participation is FREE to all Individual and Corporate Members of the Cambridge Network, including anyone working for or studying at Addenbrooke's Hospital, the University of Cambridge, Anglia Ruskin University, and the Open University, so please do tell your friends and colleagues. Registration of attendance is required - if you haven’t already registered you should follow the registration link on our event web page to tell us you’re coming.

If you are not a member or your membership has lapsed you can still attend for an entry fee of £40+VAT, payable in advance – the registration link on our event web page will take you through to a payment page. Please note that non-members who have membership of ERBI should email vicky.faupel@cambridgenetwork.co.uk direct if they would like to be added to our delegate list - there is no charge to ERBI members for attendance at this meeting.

We are most grateful to InCrops for their kind sponsorship of this important event and hope to see you on the 1 February.