PhD Colloquia - Philipp Holliger

PhD Colloquia 2015

a forum between young researchers and scientists

This is a mini series of 6 seminars given by top experts in different fields covering almost all the area of the PhD program. Each colloquium is a friendly forum where students can learn how to communicate and critically evaluate science. Additionally, it is an opportunity to discuss ongoing research in an informal atmosphere and obtain valuable feedbacks from the experts.
PhD Colloquia bring together young scientists, senior scientists and students in a colloquial setting, encouraging interactions and exchanges of ideas.

The second seminar will take place on July 15th at 5 pm in the room B101 of the Polo Ferraris at Povo2.

Invited speaker:  Philipp Holliger  (Medical Research Council, Cambridge)

Title: "Reconstructing the RNA world".

Abstract:

A critical event in the origin of life is thought to have been the emergence of an RNA molecule capable of self-replication as well as mutation, and hence evolution towards more efficient replication. While this primordial replicase appears to be have been lost in time, we can use synthetic biology to build modern-day "Doppelgangers" of the ancentral replicase to reconstruct and study life's first genetic system. I will discuss our progress in the engineering and evolution of an RNA replicase and future challenges such as the integration of RNA self-replication within protocellular structures. Success in this area promises not only to revolutionize our understanding of abiogenesis but provide a fertile test-bed for models of prebiotic chemistry and early evolution.

Next seminar on September 3rd. Speaker: Jan Reloef van der Meer