Revive & Restore

Funds and coordinates research around genetic rescue-focused wildlife conservation (including deextinction)

Sausalito, USA
Founded 2012

Company Links

Industries

BiologyPolicy

Funding

Philanthropically Funded

Narrative

Revive & Restore operates within a nascent field, facing skepticism and ethical complexities, which necessitates a uniquely collaborative and transparent culture. Its scenius is rooted in bridging the gap between traditionally siloed disciplines - wildlife conservation, molecular biology, and genetic engineering - fostering an environment where seemingly disparate expertise converges to address biodiversity loss. This is achieved through funding targeted research initiatives, facilitating workshops and conferences that encourage open dialogue and knowledge sharing, and cultivating a network of researchers, policymakers, and conservationists willing to explore radical, technology-driven solutions.

The organization's effectiveness stems from its proactive approach to dispelling misinformation and fostering public discourse around genetic rescue. By explicitly addressing the ethical considerations and potential risks alongside the scientific possibilities, Revive & Restore positions itself as a responsible innovator. Its location outside of traditional academic structures allows for greater agility in pursuing unconventional research pathways, unburdened by institutional inertia. This independent positioning, coupled with strategic partnerships with universities and government agencies, has enabled Revive & Restore to become a central node in a growing network dedicated to leveraging genetic technologies for conservation.

Key People

  • Ryan Phelan: Founder & Executive Director. A conservationist and entrepreneur focused on biotechnology applications for conservation.

  • Stewart Brand: Founder & Chairman Emeritus. A writer, environmental activist, and entrepreneur known for his work on the Whole Earth Catalog and other projects.

  • Ben Lamm: Co-founder. Serial entrepreneur and founder of multiple tech companies. (Note: his involvement is less prominent in recent years)

  • Beth Shapiro: Key Scientific Advisor. A leading paleogeneticist known for her work on ancient DNA.

  • George Church: Key Scientific Advisor. A prominent geneticist known for his work in synthetic biology and genomics.

Breakthroughs

  • Name: The Lazarus Project (Passenger Pigeon)

    • Description: Attempted de-extinction of the passenger pigeon through cloning using DNA from museum specimens. Significant progress in ancient DNA analysis and cloning techniques, though a fully viable bird was not produced.
    • Year: Ongoing, with significant milestones in the early 2010s and beyond.
  • Name: Various publications and presentations on de-extinction technologies and ethical considerations.

    • Description: Articles and presentations outlining the scientific, ethical, and logistical challenges and opportunities surrounding de-extinction efforts.
    • Year: Ongoing, starting in the early 2010s.
  • Name: Consultancy and advocacy for de-extinction research.

    • Description: Provided guidance and support for various research teams working on de-extinction projects globally. No single "product" but a significant contribution to the field.
    • Year: Ongoing, starting in the early 2010s.

Related Entities

  • Collaborated With: The Long Now Foundation; Shared interest in long-term thinking and de-extinction efforts.
  • Collaborated With: National Geographic; Joint projects involving de-extinction research and public awareness campaigns.
  • Funded By: Various private donors and foundations; Funding supports their research and conservation projects.
  • Collaborated With: Researchers at various universities and institutions; Partnerships for specific de-extinction research projects (e.g., genetic research, reproductive technologies).
  • Influenced By: Stewart Brand; Brand's work on long-term thinking and technological solutions has influenced Revive & Restore's approach.
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