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Should Scientists Genetically Engineer Wild Species? episode artwork

Oct 20, 2025 13 min

Should Scientists Genetically Engineer Wild Species?

from Short Wave

Some scientists looking to preserve vulnerable species have turned to a controversial technique: synthetic biology. This catchall term often means genetic engineering – introducing new genes to an organism. And a recent narrow vote by the International Union for Conservation of Nature on using the technology shows how divided scientists are on the issue of releasing genetically altered species. Science correspondent Nate Rott wades into the debate with us and reveals whether or not the Union voted to place a moratorium on releasing gene-edited species. Read more of Nate’s reporting on the topic. Interested in more science debates? Email us your question at [email protected]. Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave. NPR Privacy Policy

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Should Scientists Genetically Engineer Wild Species?

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This episode was published on October 20, 2025.

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