The idea of bringing back extinct species fascinates us, despite countless blockbuster movies telling us it’s probably a bad idea…

In this Ethos Forum we tackle the scientific and societal impacts of de-extinction. When is a dire wolf not a dire wolf? How will conservation efforts for currently endangered species be affected? Will only cute or exciting species be revived – and who decides?

Hosted by comedian Jason Chong, join us as we discuss the ethics of de-extinction with help from Prof. Chris Daniels, Assoc. Prof. Jeremy Austin and Dr Alexandra Whittaker.

Chris Daniels is Professor of Biology at the University of South Australia, with research interests in the evolution of animals, adaptation to rapidly changing environments and human animal interactions. As Green Adelaide’s Presiding Member, and as a member of dozens of other environmental boards and committees, he is leading many efforts to ‘rewild’ the city and connect citizens with nature.

Dr Jeremy Austin in an Associate Professor at University of Adelaide and an evolutionary biologist working in the fields of ancient DNA, molecular ecology, conservation genetics and forensic biology. This research uses ancient and modern DNA techniques to “travel through time” to understand the evolutionary history of living and extinct vertebrates; assess the impacts of past environmental change on animal populations; and provide valuable genetic data for conservation and management of threatened species.

Dr Alexandra Whittaker is an Associate Professor in Animal Welfare and Law at the University of Adelaide. Her research focusses on novel methods of animal welfare assessment and policy development in relation to captive animals. This work bridges species and considers broad-ranging contexts, from conservation to emerging biotechnologies.

Free drinks and snacks provided.

This event will be Auslan interpreted.

What is Ethos?
Ethos is a place for you to have conversations about future-focused ethical issues relating to research, technological development and the broader social context. Each forum focuses on an object as the starting point.

Want more?
Come from 5:30pm and explore FOREVER, the current exhibition at MOD. in which we think all about time and our place in it.

What to expect?
We are likely to see 50-odd participants attend this relaxed, but interactive evening event. You can expect conversation with friends and strangers, sharing perspectives and (hopefully) some laughs too.

The launch component will include drinks and talking, followed by what is a typical night at Ethos: an activity, a break with drinks, then a short panel and group discussions.

This event is – as is all of MOD. – wheelchair accessible and while participants are standing for the launch, they are then seated for the entirety of Ethos. The Multi-Access Suite is available if you need a quiet space. Most dietary requirements are catered for.