Andrew Hessel

Andrew Hessel, a leader in synthetic biology and catalyst of the Genome Project-write, explores how designing life could transform industries while addressing the ethical, safety, and societal challenges it presents.

Andrew Hessel is recognised internationally as a leading figure in synthetic biology, exploring how the ability to design and engineer life could become one of the most significant scientific developments of the 21st century. He examines how this rapidly advancing field could be used to create applications ranging from personalised, on-demand medicines to synthetic organisms beyond the scope of natural evolution; even the recreation of extinct species. His work emphasises both the potential benefits and the complex ethical, safety, and societal considerations that accompany such breakthroughs.

As the catalyst behind the Genome Project-write (GPW), also known as the Second Human Genome Project, Andrew has helped unite hundreds of scientists, engineers, and policymakers from around the world in an effort to responsibly advance genome engineering. While the first Human Genome Project focused on reading DNA, GPW is focused on writing it, establishing the technical and governance frameworks needed to design and build entire genomes. This initiative has implications across healthcare, agriculture, environmental science, and manufacturing, with the capacity to reshape industries and economies.

Andrew’s career has included research roles at Amgen and Autodesk, and he is the founder of Humane Genomics, a seed-stage therapeutics company developing customised, “3D-printed” medicines designed for individual patients. He often contrasts this model with the more traditional, large-scale pharmaceutical approach, positioning it as a possible future for medicine.

In his speaking engagements, Andrew presents complex scientific ideas in accessible and practical terms. He covers topics such as the use of cells as programmable living factories, viruses as a new frontier for software development, and the evolving intersection of biology and computer science. His presentations are tailored to the audience, offering insights into how these technologies could impact diverse sectors, while also addressing the regulatory, ethical, and biosecurity challenges they present. His approach is grounded in both enthusiasm for innovation and a clear understanding of the responsibilities inherent in shaping the future of life sciences.