We invite you to apply to not only one but two events to advance bottlenecks to nanotechnology development:
1. Molecular Systems Engineering Platform Launch
For too long, the lack of advanced software and simulation tools has slowed progress in nanotechnology. On October 4th, join Eric Drexler at The Institute in San Francisco to unveil a revolutionary engineering platform for molecular systems—poised to accelerate breakthroughs.
2. Functional Nanomachine Design Workshop
The next hurdle to overcome is the absence of a clear roadmap guiding future advancements. From October 5–6 at 50 Years Capital in San Francisco, we’ll collaborate to build this roadmap. Chaired by Jeremy Barton, an expert in nanoscale instrumental analysis, the workshop will bring top nanotechnology scientists, technologists, and funders driving the development of functional nanomachines.
Join us at Vision Weekend USA this December 6-8 in the Bay Area and connect with others leading the new frontier of science and tech. Experts include Neil Gershenfield from MIT, a leader in digital fabrication; Mary Lou Jepsen from Openwater, a builder of brain imaging and health technology; Jason Crawford, founder of Roots of Progress, leading the effort for sustainable technological and societal development; and Tom Kalil, CEO of Renaissance Philanthropy. Attendees can expect conferences, unconferences, mentorship sessions, office hours, speed-dating, location tours, and more. Those on an All Access ticket will experience an evening in the clouds, a special dinner paired with New Zealand wine 'Two Sisters', a showcase by Grantees & Fellows, and networking with our community. They'll also enjoy costume closets, a cyber-futures dinner, award ceremonies, a marimba concert, and an exclusive afterparty. We encourage you to check out the full program, which includes sessions on flourishing futures, funding X, longevity, molecular machines, AI, neurotech, and more.
Next year, we are expanding Vision Weekend beyond its traditional venues in San Francisco and Europe with a special edition in Puerto Rico. Get tickets for an immersive gathering focused on cutting-edge technological advancements set against Puerto Rico's dynamic environment on February 21-23, 2025.
Engage with leading researchers, innovators, and thought leaders in an atmosphere designed to foster collaboration and deep discussions on the future of technology.
Speakers include Frances Haugen (Social Media Transparency Advocate), Emilia Javorsky (Future of Life Institute), Andrew Critch (Encultured AI), Adam Rutkowski (Marathon Fusion), Mark Luttern (The Charter Cities Institute), and Leon Peshki (Harvard Medical School).
Thank you to everyone who joined our most recent Space Futures and Governance workshop, which explored space innovation, technology, and the economic and governance challenges they bring for a flourishing future in space.
Foresight Fellow Updates
Foresight Fellow alum, Shucong Li will establish a new research laboratory in Georgia Tech's Materials Science and Engineering department in January 2025 to advance the field of soft intelligent materials. Learn more about the lab here.
August Seminars
Hope Drop #30: Eli Dourado: Creating a World Where the Future Feels Possible Again
In this month’s Existential Hope Drop, we speak with Eli Dourado, Chief Economist at the Abundance Institute. Eli is on a mission to reignite American economic growth through innovation, hard tech, and policy change. He offers a pragmatic take on the future of key sectors—like energy, healthcare, and transportation—and the cultural and institutional shifts needed to accelerate progress.
We’re thrilled to share that Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung recently highlighted Foresight Institute in an insightful profile on our mission and work. Special thanks to journalist Roland Lindner for highlighting the incredible journey of Allison Duettmann, Foresight’s CEO, and her dedication to advancing both individual longevity and the future of civilization. Check out the full article here.
Community Updates
If you're interested in d/acc and neurotech and are in town for SF tech week, consider applying to the salon on October 7. Apply here.
ARIA is taking applications for their next Program Director, who is a brilliant scientific and/or technical specialist with a clear and focused vision for how technology can transform the world. Apply here.
The Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security offers a fully fundedHealth Security PhD track focused on preparing leaders to address global catastrophic biological risks (GCBRs) through research and mentorship. The track is open for the 2025-2026 school year, with applications accepted via SOPHAS. For more information, watch the August 2023 information session with track directors Tara Kirk Sell, PhD, and Gigi Gronvall, PhD.
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Looking forward to the Levin and Crawford videos in particular !
Can't wait for Vision Weekend USA!