The Purpose of Science Lecture Series

About the Series

Scientific research has transformed the human condition—extending life, reducing suffering, and expanding our understanding of the world. But scientific advances can also create risks and unintended consequences, raising important questions about the responsibilities that accompany discovery.

Hosted by Bryce Nickels, Professor of Genetics and Laboratory Director at the Waksman Institute, The Purpose of Science Lecture Series brings scientists, physicians, scholars, journalists, policymakers, and other public voices to Rutgers to explore these questions: What responsibilities do scientists have for the consequences of their work? How should scientific freedom be balanced with societal responsibility? What role should universities play in preparing scientists to confront the ethical dimensions of their work? And how can science best serve the public good?

The series builds on a long tradition of scientists examining their responsibilities to society. Among them was Joseph Rotblat, who called for an ethical commitment comparable to medicine's Hippocratic Oath. In his 1995 Nobel Peace Prize Lecture, he urged scientists to consider both the benefits and potential harms of their work.

Events feature guest lectures, discussions, and audience Q&A, providing a forum for open examination of difficult, controversial, or overlooked questions at the intersection of science and society.

The series seeks to foster intellectual curiosity, open inquiry, interdisciplinary dialogue, and scientific responsibility. Rutgers students are especially encouraged to attend and participate.

Four events are currently scheduled for Fall 2026. The inaugural event on September 11 will open with virtual welcome remarks from Rutgers President William F. Tate IV and feature Simon Wain-Hobson (Professor Emeritus, Institut Pasteur), Richard H. Ebright (Professor, Rutgers University), and Neil L. Harrison (Professor, Columbia University) discussing scientific responsibility in research on dangerous pathogens. Additional fall events will feature Tracy Beth Høeg, M.D., Ph.D. (physician, epidemiologist, and former FDA official) in October; Roger Pielke Jr. (Senior Fellow, American Enterprise Institute; Professor Emeritus, University of Colorado Boulder) in November; and Anthony Bellotti (Founder and President, White Coat Waste Project) in December.

Support the Series

If you value open discussion of difficult and consequential questions about science and its responsibilities to society, please consider supporting the series. Donations of any size will help sustain and expand this initiative.

To make a tax-deductible contribution through the Rutgers Foundation:

Support The Purpose of Science Lecture Series