Bioelectric Code of Life Workshop

 

An overview of Michael Levin's revolutionary work, which challenges the DNA-centric view of life by revealing a biological "software" layer. This seminar explores how a bioelectric code orchestrates development, demonstrated by two-headed worms that inherit new body plans without genetic changes, and "Picasso" tadpoles that self-correct scrambled anatomy. We will cover the core concepts of collective cellular intelligence, the creation of novel lifeforms like Xenobots and Anthrobots, and the profound implications for regenerative medicine and bioengineering. Finally, we will touch upon Levin's most speculative ideas, exploring his "radical Platonist" framework where mathematical forms from a non-physical "latent space" can "ingress" into biology, formalizing a future where AI may be understood as peer lifeforms and presenting a possible accelerationist framework for scientific research. This is an essential overview for anyone interested in the intersection of biology, computer science, and the future of intelligence.

Approximately 100 pages of non-mandatory reading will be given out in advance.
        
Assignment form “design a related project that could be done that builds on this research and applies it to a field of your interest including team, timelines, equipment, and financing needs” with a 300 word limit will be circulated in advance and will also be subject of the break.

All information available at https://semf.org.es/workshops/bioelectricity