Jane Calvert

Jane Calvert is a Professor of Science and Technology Studies at the University of Edinburgh. Her research focuses on the life sciences, particularly synthetic biology, interdisciplinary collaborations, and the sociological/philosophical analysis of engineering living systems.

• Undergraduate: Human Sciences, University of Sussex
• MSc: History and Philosophy of Science, London School of Economics
• PhD: Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU), University of Sussex

Research interests include:

• Engineering of living things and integration of design principles in biology
• Interdisciplinary collaborations between scientists, engineers, social scientists, and artists
• Governance of emerging technologies and the 'normative turn' in STS
• STS policy engagement through bioethics and regulatory frameworks

Recent publications highlight trends in synthetic biology ethics, interdisciplinary methodologies, and sociotechnical governance. She co-authored the 2024 book A Place for Science and Technology Studies, reflecting on 15 years of synthetic biology research.

Key grants include:

• ERC Consolidator Grant for 'Engineering Life: Ideas, Practices and Promises'
• UKRI Cross Council Award for 'If pollinators designed gardens, what would humans plant'
• ESRC and NSF funding for 'Future Organisms'
• EPSRC and NSF support for 'Synthetic Aesthetics'