Designer Babies, Disseminating Science, and Dinosaurs with Professor Darren Griffin

In today's episode, we are privileged to be speaking to Professor Darren Griffin, who is currently based at the University of Kent, where he is the director of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of Reproduction, and Professor of Genetics.

Darren is President of the International Chromosome and Genome Society, and is a world leader in the field of cytogenetics, performing the first successful cytogenetic preimplantation genetic diagnosis, as well as playing a large role in the development of a universal test for genetic disease in IVF, known as karyomapping. Darren also sits on the faculty of CoGen (controversies in genetics), so we were able to have some really interesting discussions with him, not only on the scientific side of his work but also on the ethical implications.

In addition to talking to us about his hugely exciting research, we also hear from Darren about his experience in science communications. Darren is passionate about making scientific research publicly accessible, and has authored a book (available: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Preimplantation-Genetic-Testing-Advances-Reproductive/dp/1138333301), as well as taking part in 2 documentaries. Darren also has some very exciting other endeavours on the horizon, and we speak to him about his upcoming 6-part documentary series for young adults, as well as a course he is involved with that is taking some of this pioneering IVF research over to Dubai, to teach students there.

Email: D.K.Griffin@kent.ac.uk

Website: http://www.kent.ac.uk/bio/griffin/

Twitter: @darrenkgriffin

Instagram: @profdazzy