Biopunk: Solving Biotech's Biggest Problems in Kitchens and Garages

Bill Gates told Wired that if he were a teenager today, he would be hacking biology. "If you want to change the world in some big way, that's where you should start-biological molecules."

Marcus Wohlsen chronicles a growing community of DIY scientists working outside the walls of corporations and universities who are committed to democratizing DNA the way the Internet did information. The "biohacking" movement aims to unleash genetically modified innovation by making the tools of biotechnology accessible to everyone. Biopunks believe in the power of individuals with access to DNA to solve the world's biggest problems.

You'll meet people like an entrepreneur who aims to bring DNA-based medical tools to the poorest of the poor and a curious tinkerer who believes a tub of yogurt and a jellyfish gene could protect the world's food supply.

Wohlsen also explores the risks of DIY bioterrorism and the possibility of genetic engineering experiments gone awry.