Myth busting de-extinction to sort fact from fiction

De-extinction has hit the headlines recently with the ‘resurrection’ of the dire wolf and plans to de-extinct the moa. However, can scientists actually de-extinct animals, and more importantly, should they bring them back? In this talk and Q&A Nic will delve into the science, ethics, and indigenous concerns surrounding de-extinction. Associate Professor Nic Rawlence’s research focuses on reconstructing prehistoric ecosystems whether hundreds of years or tens of millions of years old; how these ecosystems responded (and in some cases didn't); as well as Aotearoa’s dynamic geological, climatic and human history; and how this information can be used to inform evidence-based kaitiakitanga and conservation management of our taonga species. He is also a respected and internationally recognised science communicator and enjoys busting a few scientific myths now and then. Nic has become one of the world's leading critics of de-extinction.