NEWS_
The Human Genre Project_
Date 31st July 2009
Tags opportunity, international, writing, genetics, DNA, online
Biology is, of course, creative. Without a little non-linear thinking to dream up new conceptual approaches and methodologies, some of the best experiments ever conducted would have never left the drawing board. But when it comes to communicating scientific results, even stunning, revolutionary ones, the literature can be drier than chalk dust.
A new project sponsored by The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) -- a UK-based organization for research and training in social and economic issues -- aims to change that. Comprised of contributions from writers, scientists, and others around the world, The Human Genre Project seeks to spread the word about human genomics through short stories, reflections and poems. The Human Genre Project is a collection of new writing in very short forms — short stories, flash fictions, reflections, poems — inspired by genes and genomics.
The mapping of the human genome is "one of the great landmarks of recent science," says Adam Roberts, a science fiction writer, professor of 19th century literature at Royal Holloway, University of London, and contributor to the project. "This [project] is another form of mapping [the same genome in a more] creative way."
New contributions of short works inspired by genes and genomics are welcomed. Ideally your contribution would be related to a specific gene, but if not, don't worry.
Your contribution will, unless you ask otherwise, be shown with a link to your own website or blog, so this is a good way to spread the word.
For more info, visit the website.
