Voices from DARPA
DARPA
"Voices from DARPA" is a captivating podcast that provides a rare glimpse into the innovative minds behind the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Each episode invites listeners into the world of DARPA’s program managers, who spearhead a diverse array of projects from quantum computing and artificial intelligence to defense technologies that could shape future military capabilities. This podcast offers a unique platform for understanding how these cutting-edge technologies might evolve and how they’re set to change our world. Join us as we delve into conversations that are not just about technology, but also about the ideas, challenges, and motivations that drive America’s tech frontier. "Voices from DARPA" is more than just a technology podcast; it’s a portal to exploring the unseen and unheard stories that are shaping the technological landscape of tomorrow. Whether you are a tech enthusiast, a scholar, or just curious about the future of technology, this podcast will provide valuable insights into some of the most secretive and influential research being conducted today.
Episodes
Episode 80: Decentralizing Chemistry
In this engaging episode of "Voices from DARPA," hosted by Tom Shortridge, Dr. Vishnu Sundaresan, a program manager at DARPA since 2020, delves into the agency's efforts to decentralize chemistry. The conversation revolves around enabling chemical processes at smaller scales while maintaining large-scale efficiencies, a necessity for specialized military needs and broader applications. Dr. Sundaresan introduces various programs under the "Decentralized Chemistry for Everything" portfolio, including initiatives to develop robotic tools for fine chemical synthesis, innovate recycling methods for electronic waste, and refine control over chemical reactions using electron spins. The episode reveals how these advancements could drastically alter industries, from pharmaceuticals to materials recovery, emphasizing DARPA's role in pioneering multifaceted scientific innovations.
Episode 79: Integrating ELSI
In "Episode 79: Integrating ELSI" of the Voices from DARPA podcast, host Tom Shortridge explores the significant role of ELSI in DARPA's technological projects. The episode highlights DARPA's commitment to addressing ethical, legal, and societal implications throughout the lifecycle of its programs. Key discussions include the SafeGenes program's approach to gene editing with CRISPR, emphasizing the necessity of controlling off-target effects and the broader application of these ethical considerations in biotechnology. Experts across various DARPA offices discuss how ELSI considerations are embedded from the inception of projects, reflecting on the implications for military technologies, autonomous systems, and AI. The episode underscores DARPA's proactive approach to integrating ELSI, shaping technology development in alignment with ethical and societal standards.
Episode 78: Introducing ELSI
In Episode 78 of "Voices from DARPA," host Tom Shortridge and guests delve into the importance of considering ethical, legal, and societal implications (ELSI) in DARPA's innovative projects. The agency has introduced a new role, the ELSI Scholar, to ensure these aspects are integrated from the start of every program. DARPA's proactive approach involves collaboration with ethicists, legal scholars, and scientists to predict and manage potential impacts of emerging technologies. This episode features insights from DARPA Director Dr. Stephanie Tompkins and the inaugural ELSI Scholar, Dr. Rebecca Krutov, highlighting their efforts to institutionalize ELSI considerations across all DARPA programs and make this mindset a fundamental part of technology development.
Episode 77: Meet DARPAConnect
"Meet DARPAConnect" provides an in-depth look at DARPA's outreach initiative aimed at incorporating diverse and non-traditional talent into the national security space. The episode covers how DARPAConnect facilitates easier access to DARPA's resources and support, aiming to demystify the agency's workings and encourage innovative contributions. Key features of the program include networking events, one-on-one coaching, and a comprehensive online curriculum that helps participants understand DARPA's mission and opportunities. Guests discuss the significance of bringing fresh perspectives into DARPA and the potential long-term impacts of these engagements.