The Future of Biology, AI and Human Innovation with Michael Heltzen | Shekhar Natarajan

What happens when biology, artificial intelligence, and computing come together? Could we use technology to understand nature more deeply, recreate biological processes, and develop solutions that were once considered impossible?

Michael shares his journey from day trading and accounting to discovering bioinformatics in 2004. He explains how his early work with CLC bio connected computing with genomic research and contributed to making DNA sequencing data more accessible and useful for scientists.

Shekhar and Michael also discuss the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence, AI alignment, governance, human values, and the importance of representing different cultures and communities in AI systems.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE EXPLORE:

• Michael Heltzen’s journey from day trading to biotechnology
• What bioinformatics means and how it connects biology with computing
• The evolution of DNA sequencing and genomic research
• How scientific breakthroughs become invisible parts of everyday life
• AI risks, alignment, governance, and human-centred outcomes
• Why representation and cultural diversity matter in AI models
• Graphene-based biosensors and molecular signal detection
• How enzymes can recreate natural processes outside living cells
• Protein language models and AI-powered biological research
• The potential of biotechnology in exploring fatty liver disease
• Rare cannabinoids and the future of natural product development
• Longevity, sustainability, and nature-inspired innovation
• Why focus, empathy, listening, and purpose matter in the future of work

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