Date:  May 29, 2008

Contact:  Maggie Collins

Distinctive Voices@The Jonsson Center

508-237-5625; e-mail <mcollins@nas.edu>

DISTINCTIVE VOICES@THE JONSSON CENTER

New Lecture Series at Woods Hole Explores Topics Ranging From Nanomedicine to Caves

WASHINGTON – The National Academies announced today Distinctive Voices@The Jonsson Center.  The new series of public events in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, will feature diverse and interesting subjects for those curious about science, technology, and medicine.  The programs will explore nanomedicine, global cooperation, nutrition, caves on Earth and beyond, and discoveries that may lead to new antibiotic therapies.  Audiences will hear from award-winning scientists and engineers about recent findings and research developments.

A reception following each event will provide attendees with the opportunity to engage in stimulating conversations sparked by the presentations.  The events are free and open to the public; for more details, visit www.voicesatjonsson.org.  A list of the summer events follows:

Thursday, June 26, 7 p.m. -- Nanomedicine Fighting Cancer, by Mark E. Davis, Ph.D. (NAS/NAE)

Tuesday, July 15, 7 p.m. -- Implanted Medical Devices: What Next? by Paul Citron (NAE)

Tuesday, July 22, 7 p.m. -- Why Cooperate? A New Look at Global Issues, by Scott Barrett, Ph.D.

Tuesday, July 29, 7 p.m. -- If Thin is In, Why Are We So Fat? by MRC Greenwood, Ph.D. (IOM)

Tuesday, Aug. 5, 7 p.m. -- Chemical Conversations: How Bacteria Talk to Each Other, by Bonnie Bassler, Ph.D. (NAS)

Thursday, Aug. 21, 7 p.m. -- The Planet Within: Exploring Caves on Earth and Beyond, by Penelope Boston, Ph.D.

The Distinctive Voices lecture series began in 2006 with Distinctive Voices@The Beckman Center, held at the National Academies’ conference center in Irvine, California.  Expanding the program to the Academies' Woods Hole facility makes the programs available to residents and visitors to Cape Cod from June to October.

For more information about Distinctive Voices, visit www.distinctivevoices.org.

The National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and National Research Council perform unparalleled public service by bringing together experts in all areas of science and technology who serve as volunteers to address critical national issues and offer unbiased advice to the federal government and the nation.

Editor’s Note: Members of the media who wish to arrange an interview with the presenters are encouraged to call Maggie Collins at 508-237-5625.

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