Tim Swindle, AZSGC and Lunar & Planetary Laboratory Director, and Betul Kacar, 2018-19 Space Grant Undergraduate Research Mentor, discuss Kacar's current research on synthetic biology.

Scientists describe synthetic biology as the basics of making things from already existing biological forms, like genetic engineering and building molecules. Synthetic biology is responsible for newly-developed textiles and plant fertilizers. University of Arizona astrobiologist Betül Kacar says synthetic biology could also help develop ideas about life that might be encountered elsewhere in the universe.

Listen to the full interview on NPR.