ORIGIN OF LIFE:From Geochemistry to the Genetic CodeJune 21 to July 3, 2011 at George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia

In the last decade, efforts to understand the origins of life on Earth have become moreurgent. The discovery of extra-solar planets, information transmitted by remote landing crafton Mars and Titan detecting evidence for life, and the exploration of extreme terrestrial

environments all have highlighted the need for a better understanding of the very definition

of life, as well as the factors that led to its emergence. Scientists from four research insti-

tutions – Carnegie Institution, George Mason University, University of Colorado, andUniversity of Illinois – working under a National Science Foundation grant administeredby the SANTA FE INSTITUTE (SFI), are advancing our understanding of the geochemical

pathways that may have been involved in the origin of life on Earth.

SFI and George Mason University have joined forces to conduct this workshop, the purpose

of which is to deliver new information on this topic to current high school science teachers

to help them inspire the next generation of scientists. Participants in the workshop will hear

from research scientists and will receive training on curricular units developed by a team of

educational experts.

The Program Coordinator is Paul A. Cammer, Ph.D., Director of the Neuroscience ResearchLaboratory at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Alexandria, VA.

In order to be considered for this program, you must be a current high school science

teacher. You must also agree to incorporate what you learn at the workshop in the 2011-

2012 school year. Enrollment is limited to 25 participants. Accommodations and meals on

the Fairfax campus of George Mason University are included in the program. In addition, all

participants will receive a stipend of $1,000 (upon full participation and completion of the

program) and subsequent technical support for using the information in class.

If you are interested in participating in this event or if you have questions, send an email to

originworkshop@santafe.edu by February 1; we will provide specific information on howto apply. The deadline for full application is February 21, 2011.

The SANTA FE INSTITUTE is a private, independent, multidisciplinary research and education center. SFI seeks

to catalyze new collaborate, multidisciplinary research; to break down the barriers between traditional disciplines;

to spread its ideas and methodologies to other institutions; and to encourage the practical applications of its results.

SFI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Summer Teacher Professional DevelopmentSANTA FE INSTITUTE