The biosphere, the part of the earth and its atmosphere in which living organisms exist, is experiencing severe challenges, including climate change and the poor health of sizable fractions of the human population (e.g. concerning trends in cancer and antibiotic resistance). To enhance our lives and to combat these challenges, it is critical that we harness the modern tools of biology, physics and engineering to synergistically identify opportunities and creatively implement solutions. Fortunately, our understanding of the molecular basis of life has advanced to a level where beneficial interventions in the natural world are not only possible, but can be made much more effective by a multidisciplinary approach.
