Synthetic biology is one of the most dynamic and fascinating subjects at the interface of the physical and life sciences. The organisers of this issue of Interface Focus, Jim Haseloff (University of Cambridge), Jim Ajioka (University of Cambridge) and Dick Kitney (Imperial College, London), have brought together a collection of twelve articles by a group of internationally renowned authors. Combined, these peer-reviewed research and review papers provide an excellent overview of the subject. Areas covered include DNA synthesis and assembly, the design of genetic networks, microbial systems, artificial life and the ethical, social and economic implications of synthetic biology.Visit http://rsif.royalsocietypublishing.org/site/misc/syntheticbiology_focus.xhtml for free access to all the articles in this issue of Interface Focus.
