Dr. Beth Shapiro Explores De-Extinction Science at R. Douglas Ziegler Lecture
November 14, 2025
Milwaukee researchers, donors, and science enthusiasts gathered at the Weasler Auditorium on Nov. 13 for the R. Douglas Ziegler Innovative Research Lecture, where MacArthur Fellow and National Geographic Explorer Dr. Beth Shapiro explored of how genetic engineering and ancient DNA research connects to today's most pressing conservation challenges.
Shapiro, chief scientific officer at Colossal Biosciences, traced her journey from Arctic expeditions collecting mammoth remains to pioneering genetic engineering techniques that could help address the global biodiversity crisis. Her message was clear: in the face of species loss driven by climate change and human impact, "doing nothing is a choice," one we cannot afford as a planet.
The evening carried special significance for the Ziegler family. Peter Ziegler revealed the connection between his late father's Colorado property and Dr. Shapiro's career. In 2010, construction at the Ziegler family's land near Snowmass uncovered one of North America's richest Ice Age fossil deposits—more than 35,000 specimens including dozens of mastodons and ancient bison. Dr. Shapiro worked on that dig in 2011, using exceptionally preserved DNA to prove that extinct long-horned bison share ancestry with today's buffalo.
"Little did we know," Peter noted, "that discovery would eventually lead Dr. Shapiro to this stage tonight."
CRISPR gene-editing technology formed the foundation of Dr. Shapiro's presentation, demonstrating how the same tools that enable her work at Colossal Biosciences, including the recent announcement of dire wolf de-extinction, advance research across multiple fields. While her focus remains on conservation applications, the genetic engineering principles she employs parallel innovations being pursued in laboratories worldwide, including right here at Versiti Blood Research Institute.
WISN-12 anchor Blake Eason moderated a fireside chat with Dr. Shapiro, exploring questions about how studying extinction helps prevent it and clarifying what Colossal's dire wolf pups actually represent in the broader context of genetic rescue efforts for endangered species.
The lecture honored R. Douglas Ziegler's nearly 40-year commitment to Versiti's transformation from community blood center to internationally recognized research institute. The Ziegler Family established this annual lecture series to continue Doug's legacy of supporting innovative scientific thinking.
We're grateful to everyone who joined us for this extraordinary evening of discovery. Your engagement demonstrates the power of scientific curiosity to connect communities across disciplines and generations. To support the kind of fundamental research that expands what we believe possible, visit versiti.org to learn more about Versiti Blood Research Institute or schedule your lifesaving blood donation today.