Genetic Engineering

Genetic engineering or gene editing refers to the artificial modification of the genetic material of different organisms. While the technique itself is not new and genetically modified organisms have been applied in the industry and agriculture for several years now, recent discoveries in the field revolutionized the whole process, making it significantly simpler, faster and cheaper. This set in motion a chain reaction, leading to the birth of the first genetically modified human babies. The course aims at describing the scientific background of genetic engineering and its various applications, but also the risks and concerns that surround its widespread use.