FAQ

Can I participate remotely?

No. The summit will not be offering hybrid or remote participation. 

What will come out of the summit?

Potential outcomes may include proposals, frameworks, or statements that propose pathways forward on the summit’s five themes, inclusive of dissenting views. We expect coverage via major news outlets and the Science History Institute’s Distillations podcast. The summit’s Next-Generation Leaders cohort is also expected to serve as an informal network of experts on matters related to the future of biotechnology going forward.

Is the meeting being recorded?

The plenary lectures will be recorded and preserved in the archives of the Science History Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

What role did the fiscal supporters play in program development?

None. Funds received, regardless of source, are being used to cover summit-related costs, including venue fees, artistic interventions, and travel support for most of the 300 participants. Supporters had no direct influence on, or responsibility for, the roster of participants, the designs of, or the aims of the summit.

Who organized the program?

The summit co-organizers are Luis Campos (Rice University) and Drew Endy (Stanford University) in partnership with David Cole and Michelle DiMeo (Science History Institute). The twelve theme co-chairs were also instrumental in helping to shape the roster, discussion topics, and potential outcomes for each of the five themes.

How were the themes selected?

Themes arose organically in discussions spanning several years. The five specific themes were selected on the basis of matters arising, timeliness, and the possibility of them benefiting from Asilomar-like discussions.

How did you decide who should attend?

Theme co-chairs were selected by the organizers based on expertise and public-mindedness. The organizers worked with the theme co-chairs and others, including civil society organizers, to nominate a cross-disciplinary and diverse group of individuals who would offer valuable contributions spanning the summit’s five themes. An open nomination process allowed others to recommend or self-nominate. Invitations were extended on a rolling basis until the summit reached capacity, with care taken to ensure coverage of themes along with diversity of perspectives and representation. An open “Next-Generation Leaders” nomination process also occurred from which an independent committee selected next-generation leader participants based on the committee’s internal rubric. 

Is there still room to attend?

No. The summit is over capacity. 

Is the public invited to attend?

Everyone is invited to attend the “Historical Perspectives” roundtables on Sunday, February 23 from 1-4pm. The event is free but registration with California State Parks is required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spirit-of-asilomar-biotechs-past-present-and-future-tickets-1235002789589?aff=oddtdtcreator  

How can I get a Press Pass?

Members of the Press have already been invited to participate in and cover the summit. Due to room capacity, we are not able to offer additional Press Passes. Interested members of the Press may contact us for comment after the conclusion of the summit.

How can I get in touch with the organizers?

Please email us at SpiritofAsilomar@sciencehistory.org.