

Beth Shapiro
Evolutionary molecular biologist and Chief Science Officer at Colossal Biosciences. She is also the author of “Life as We Made It: How 50,000 Years of Human Innovation Refined―and Redefined―Nature.”
Top 3 podcasts with Beth Shapiro
Ranked by the Snipd community

193 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 3h 4min
#2338 - Beth Shapiro
Beth Shapiro, an evolutionary molecular biologist and Chief Science Officer at Colossal Biosciences, dives into the cutting-edge world of ancient DNA and genetic innovation. She shares her hilarious misadventures in Siberia, facing mosquitoes and helicopter woes while uncovering secrets of human evolution. The discussion touches on ethical dilemmas around de-extinction and challenges in wildlife management. With captivating tales of mammoths and reindeer, Beth makes complex science accessible and highlights the need for diverse voices in research.

Mar 3, 2026 • 33min
Dead as a Dodo? Maybe Not! Colossal's Beth Shapiro on the Science of De-Extinction — and Moonshots
Beth Shapiro, Chief Science Officer at Colossal Biosciences and ancient DNA researcher, explains why bringing back extinct species can solve broader conservation and biotech problems. She describes the dire wolf births, the choices behind genetic edits, moonshot-driven lab innovations, and an ethics framework for risky science. Short, vivid tales of mammoth mysteries and reproductive biology round out the conversation.

Nov 19, 2025 • 13min
De-Extinction: A How-To Guide | Beth Shapiro
Beth Shapiro, an ancient DNA scientist and Chief Science Officer at Colossal, shares her insights on de-extinction and genome sequencing. She reveals how her team is working to bring back traits of the extinct dire wolf, clarifying that real science is far from the fiction of Jurassic Park. Beth discusses the ethical considerations, the use of CRISPR for genome editing, and how ancient genomes guide their strategies. Her exciting revelations about restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity make for a thought-provoking conversation.


