Here is a sample of biology and biotechnology-related books that are new to Gleeson Library. To view additional titles, see New Biology Books and New Biotechnology Books on the library website.
The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race
Walter Isaacson’s book chronicles Jennifer Doudna’s journey from a curious sixth-grader to a Nobel Prize-winning scientist who co-discovered CRISPR, a revolutionary gene-editing tool. Despite discouragement, Doudna pursued her passion for understanding nature and making groundbreaking discoveries. The book explores the intense competition in scientific research and the moral implications of CRISPR technology. Isaacson highlights how this innovation marks the beginning of a life-science revolution, potentially allowing us to cure diseases, create vaccines, and even enhance human traits. The author also delves into the ethical questions surrounding these advancements, making it a compelling read about science and its impact on society.
A Brief History of Intelligence: Evolution, AI, and the Five Breakthroughs That Made Our Brains
“A Brief History of Intelligence” by Max Bennett offers a groundbreaking perspective on the evolution of human intelligence and its implications for AI. Bennett identifies five key evolutionary breakthroughs in brain development, drawing parallels between neuroscience and AI advancements. The book explores why AI excels in certain areas while struggling in others, using the brain’s evolutionary journey as a framework. Praised by experts like Daniel Kahneman and Angela Duckworth, this work synthesizes complex scientific concepts into an accessible narrative, providing valuable insights for understanding both human cognition and the future of AI technology.
Female Biology
USF professor Jennifer Dever’s textbook derives from a course called “Female Biology” developed over 20 years ago to address a gap in undergraduate biology education. The course focuses on the evolutionary aspects of being female and women’s specific health issues, topics often overlooked in traditional male-centric biology textbooks. It highlights the unique biological aspects of females, inequities faced by female scientists, and covers topics such as sex evolution, gender identity, sexuality, reproduction, anatomy, and physiology. The course also addresses healthcare disparities among marginalized female and transgender populations, aiming to provide a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to biology education.
Most Delicious Poison: The Story of Nature’s Toxins―From Spices to Vices
“Most Delicious Poison” explores the fascinating world of natural toxins and their impact on human history. The book delves into the evolutionary origins of these chemicals found in plants, fungi, and microbes, explaining why they exist and how humans have harnessed them for various purposes. From everyday stimulants like caffeine to powerful medicines and mind-altering substances, the author reveals the intricate relationship between these compounds and human development. This scientific journey offers a new perspective on the chemical warfare that has shaped life on Earth and continues to influence our daily lives.
Mischievous Creatures: The Forgotten Sisters Who Transformed Early American Science
“Mischievous Creatures” by Catherine McNeur unveils the forgotten legacy of sisters Margaretta and Elizabeth Morris, pioneering scientists in 19th-century America. Margaretta, an entomologist renowned for her cicada research, and Elizabeth, a skilled botanical illustrator, made significant contributions to the growth of American science. Despite their groundbreaking work, the professionalization of science ultimately marginalized women, erasing the sisters’ achievements. McNeur’s meticulously researched book restores these unsung heroines to their rightful place in scientific history, highlighting their crucial role in shaping early American scientific endeavors.
Editing Humanity: The CRISPR Revolution and the New Era of Genome Editing
Kevin Davies’ “Editing Humanity” explores the revolutionary gene-editing technology CRISPR, which allows scientists to modify DNA with unprecedented precision. The book delves into CRISPR’s potential to eradicate hereditary diseases and disabilities, while also addressing the ethical concerns and risks of misuse. Davies provides an engaging narrative that follows scientists at the forefront of CRISPR research and patients whose lives could be transformed by this breakthrough. He examines the far-reaching implications of this technology, from the controversial “CRISPR babies” in China to its potential impact on future generations.
Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution
“Eve” by Cat Bohannon offers a groundbreaking perspective on human evolution, centering on the female body’s role over 200 million years. This New York Times bestseller challenges traditional evolutionary biology narratives, exploring why women live longer, are more prone to Alzheimer’s, and experience menopausal symptoms. Bohannon’s witty and erudite approach covers a range of topics, from academic performance differences between genders to the evolutionary implications of sexism. The book provides a comprehensive “user’s manual” for the female mammal, filling a crucial gap in our understanding of human development and modern medicine. “Eve” promises to revolutionize readers’ comprehension of evolution and Homo sapiens’ success as a species.
Superconvergence: How the Genetics, Biotech, and AI Revolutions Will Transform our Lives, Work, and World
In “Superconvergence,” futurist Jamie Metzl explores the transformative impact of emerging technologies like AI, genome sequencing, and gene editing on our world. Metzl argues that these rapidly advancing and interconnected technologies have immense potential to improve lives but also pose significant risks. He highlights the critical challenge of our time: the gap between our exponentially growing technological capabilities and our limited ability to understand and manage their implications. Metzl’s interdisciplinary approach offers a unique perspective on our technological future, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Breaking Through: My Life In Science
Katalin Karikó’s memoir “Breaking Through” chronicles her remarkable journey from a humble upbringing in communist Hungary to becoming a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including derision from colleagues and threats of deportation, Karikó persevered in her research on messenger RNA. Her unwavering belief in mRNA’s potential led to the development of COVID-19 vaccines, saving millions of lives. The book highlights Karikó’s determination, resilience, and dedication to science in the face of adversity. It serves as an inspiration and a testament to the power of perseverance in scientific research, while also critiquing the culture of prestige and privilege in academia.
Building Backwards to Biotech: The Power of Entrepreneurship to Drive Cutting-Edge Science to Market
“Building Backwards to Biotech” by Stephanie A. Wisner demystifies the process of creating successful biotechnology startups. Wisner introduces the concept of “Building Backwards,” a strategy that increases the likelihood of success, guides capital raising, strengthens clinical and scientific strategies, and mitigates risks from the outset. The book explains how medicines and vaccines enter the market, why they’re expensive, and how biotech startups can thrive. Wisner emphasizes the potential of entrepreneurship to drive cutting-edge science to market, ultimately saving and enriching lives by addressing previously untreatable diseases. This guide aims to make biotech entrepreneurship more accessible to those interested in bringing innovative medical solutions to the world.
Book summaries composed with AI-assistance.