From Omar’s desk - a recommended read for this week is: The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race, by Walter Isaacson.
About the author: Walter Isaacson is a renowned American author, journalist, and historian. He is known for his biographies of Steve Jobs, Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, and Benjamin Franklin (All of which I highly recommend!).
Key premise: The Code Breaker focuses on the scientific advances and moral questions surrounding CRISPR-Cas9, a powerful tool for editing genes that is revolutionizing medicine and genetic research. The book revolves around the life and work of Jennifer Doudna, a renowned researcher in the field, as well as the many scientists who have helped develop CRISPR technology.
Why read? First, Walter's writing style is engaging and easy to understand, even though the topic itself is complex. Second, this book challenges thinking at the intersection of science, technology and society with regards to advancements in genetics and its applications. Third, this book exposes how scientific progress occurs - driven by scientists' curiosity, persistence, collaboration and competition.
Another recommendation along similar lines? The Gene: An Intimate History by Siddhartha Mukherjee.
