Through years of science classes, we learned molecules surround us and make up essentially everything we encounter.
David Lynn, professor of chemistry and biology at Emory University and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute professor, will give a lecture titled "Intelligent Molecules and the Emergence of Life."
The lecture will be held at 4 p.m. Feb. 8 in the Science Center Auditorium.
"While science forces me to ask questions, the interface of the arts helps me understand," Lynn said.
The lecture is not simply science oriented--the humanities are represented as well.
Lynn said he hopes the attendees grasp an understanding of how molecules organize themselves into complex structures and how this organization relates to the origins of life.
Lynn and his research colleagues at Emory are exploring treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
The understanding of molecular organization is part of Lynn's research and lecture.
He is studying how neurodegenerative cells organize incorrectly and fail to function properly.
The David G. Lynn Group from Emory University works to comprehend molecular structures and how chemical information can be manipulated for new functions.
Lynn explains that through evolution, molecular structures were tested and some structures "gave functions, while others did not."
"These are complicated things that impact our life," Lynn said.
However, the lecture will be accessible to people without technical or scientific backgrounds.
"He explains things to the general public in an easy way," said Gerard Elfstrom, Mosey professor in philosophy. "He's a down-to-earth guy, unassuming and honest."
Lynn's lecture is part of the Littleton-Franklin Lecture Series in the College of Liberal Arts, which promotes a relationship between sciences and humanities.
"Given the theme, he fit very well," Elfstrom said.
Lynn has collaborated with dance companies in Chicago, Seattle and Washington, D.C., despite being a chemist.
In 1972 he was the ACC Epee Champion in fencing.
"He's an accomplished researcher, active in humanities as well," Elfstrom said.
Lynn has done interviews with CNN and NPR and lectured for the Atlanta Botanical Society.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
