 
Date: Sun, 5 Apr 1992 15:21 EST
From: ALLENS%EARLHAM.BITNET@BITNET.CC.CMU.EDU
Subject: Biotech in these communities
To: +dist+~js9b/Public/camc.dl@ANDREW.CMU.EDU
Message-Id: <7CFCD84F20006B98@YANG.EARLHAM.EDU>

        I've seen quite a bit of discussion of information tech of all
types in these communities, and some on using sustainable tech. What I
haven't seen much of is discussion of biotech.
        This field (applied molecular genetics) is what I'm personally
going into. I have a choice between working for a firm, only on what can
be conveniently patented and profits made off of, or working for a
university and having to do things I'm not suited to do- namely teach.
        The specific area I'm interested in is gene therapy, and its
extensions to not only cure genetic diseases, but make up for where
evolution left off.
        I'm wondering if these communities will include resources for my
type of research. If they don't, then I may cheer them on from the
sidelines but I certainly won't join one.
        My viewpoint may be selfish- but I want to do what I'm best fitted
to do.
        I can see possibilities for such communities being easier to work
in than the present maze of restrictions on genetic research. If they can
fund research without NIH grants, then most of the needless (I'm not going
to be working on biological warfare) restrictions won't affect me and
fellow researchers- and you'll get a LOT of researchers with that as a
selling point.
        -Allen

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