Astrobiology Science Conference : evolution and life : surviving catastrophes and extremes on Earth and beyond : April 26 -29, 2010

Abstract

Addresses how environmental, chemical, biological, physical, and even social stresses, ranging in scale from the infinitesimal to the catastrophic, affect the pace and course of evolutionary change. Examines stress, stasis, and change from the cosmic to the molecular level. Considers these topics: What is necessary for life, and where does it come from? How do habitable environments develop and change? How does life begin and evolve? How does life accommodate environmental change, and vice versa? Can change be engineered, and should it?