The Age of Living Machines

March 15, 2019
A look at how new advances in bioengineering have the potential to radically transform our lives--and they are closer to reality than we think.From genomics to artificial intelligence, innovations in science and technology have already made significant impacts on our daily lives. However, Hockfield, the first woman and first life scientist to be president of MIT, argues that significant progress is needed to combat the major issues that face a rapidly growing--and rapidly consuming--global population. In this vibrant and accessible book, she is optimistic that scientists are in the midst of a "revolutionary convergence of biology and engineering" that has the potential to not just overcome great challenges, but usher in a new golden age of biotechnology. The author continues, "ingenious and powerful biologically based tools are coming our way: viruses that can self-assemble into batteries, proteins that can clean water, nanoparticles that can detect and knock out cancer, prosthetic limbs that can read minds, [and] computer systems that can increase crop yield." What's especially exciting about the narrative is that much of the research Hockfield describes occurred as a result of her foresight and tenacity; her vision at MIT was to bridge disciplines in a manner similar to the pioneering work that was conducted at Bell Labs in the mid-20th century. Her insight and expertise enhance the vividness of her writing. Imagine a virus-based car battery that takes the form of a dashboard; a nanoscience-driven urine test that can detect cancer long before an MRI; or a method to feed 9.5 billion people using genetic modification. The author effortlessly navigates complex advances for a lay audience while telling the stories of the brilliant scientists who are innovating in these fields. In these uncertain times, Hockfield instills hope for an enriched and peaceful tomorrow.A thrilling, insightful, and highly readable work of popular science.

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July 1, 2019

Hockfield (emerita, neuroscience, Massachusetts Inst. of Technology; coauthor, Molecular Probes of the Nervous System) explores the ongoing dynamic research at the intersection of engineering and life sciences. These disparate fields of study are coming together globally, especially regarding the application of technology to solve "some of the most intractable" problems. Hockfield is well known for being one of the few scientists to serve as president of MIT, as well as the first woman to do so, and she refers to her own career path throughout. This conversational, almost autobiographical work makes for an accessible read. Almost all the researchers highlighted throughout either currently or previously worked at MIT. Hockfield's coverage of physicist and later MIT president (1930-48) Karl Compton is particularly interesting; he is seldom discussed today but was a pioneer in reconsidering our ideas about the convergence of engineering and biology. VERDICT Hockfield's latest effectively examines some of the exciting research at the convergence of engineering and biology, from living batteries to cancer-fighting nanoparticles, and more. The accessible writing style should have wide appeal to readers of popular science.--Sara R. Tompson, Lawrence, KS

Copyright 2019 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2019
This enthusiastic overview from Hockfield, former president emerita of MIT, presents five marvels of biological engineering that she thinks will transform our world. This is not hyperbole; these technologies?computer-engineered crops, protein-based water-purification systems, virus-based batteries, mind-controlled prosthetics, and simple, urine-based home cancer tests?already exist. With judicious implementation, these innovations will nurture and sustain Earth's steadily increasing population by providing ample food and clean water, affordable and nontoxic energy sources, virtually undetectable prosthetics, and early detection and treatment of illnesses. The text efficiently weaves in previous scientific discoveries and breakthroughs, current research, the mechanics behind each project, and engaging profiles of the individuals?engineers, physicians, botanists, inventors, and entrepreneurs?who are leading the way. The final chapter acknowledges the difficulties inherent in implementing these technologies on a global scale but, like a dean's commencement speech, takes an upbeat tone, expressing confidence in the brilliance, creativity, and ingenuity of our upcoming generation. No dire warnings or predictions here. Rather, this is a refreshing celebration of exciting things to come.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)