Synthetic biology represents the latest phase in the development of biotechnology, in which scientists are gaining unprecedented control in programming new biological functions by rewriting the genetic code. Recently, various industries have been investing in applications regarding new production processes based on synthetic biology. In the food industry, an interesting example, although not exclusive, is vanillin, the molecule that gives vanilla its typical perfume.

The chief executive of Newcastle’s International Centre for Life (Life), Linda Conlon, has been elected to a top role with the global body representing science centres and museums.

Linda becomes the first woman from Europe (and only the second European in its 42 year history) to be elected Chair of the Association of Science and Technology Centres, (ASTC).

Now open at the Exploratorium, the recent addition to the Planetarium Science Center Complex, the new 12D Theatre.

The Theatre capacity is 12 seats, and displays a variety of 10 movies that will be changed periodically. It offers a new level of entertainment for students and families, through the fun and excitement of adventures experienced throughout the movies’ duration, which ranges from 5 to 10 minutes.

Celebrating its 29th Edition, this year Futuro Remoto, held from 15 to 18 October, won the challenge of moving from its location in Bagnoli to the heart of the city of Naples in Plebiscito Square. More than 130.000 visitors have been to the Science Festival that involved six universities of the Campania region and more than 400 institutions, research centers , universities, cultural and artistic associations, schools and businesses.