Generative Optogenetics (GO) workshop

Are you ready to shape the next era of synthetic biotechnology and biosecurity?

The Generative Optogenetics (GO) workshop brings together leading performers, researchers, and innovators from across the life sciences to tackle the most challenging questions in light-driven nucleic acid synthesis. Come be a part of a growing community and connect with research teams developing new approaches to overcome barriers in biological information transfer.

Lightning Talks and Poster sessions: DARPA is interested in hearing about your ongoing work in synthetic biology, optogenetics, protein engineering, biosecurity, computational biology, or regulatory policy. Submit a research synopsis for an opportunity to present a lightning talk and/or a poster in the following topic areas:

• Protein design
  • Engineered allostery
  • Binding domains
  • Novel molecular motions
• Physics based modulation of protein conformation
  • Optic, magnetic, thermal, acoustic modulation
• Nucleic acid synthesis
  • Processivity, switching, nucleic acid sequence binding, strand stability
  • Error Correction
• Other:
  • Novel assays to evaluate DNA/RNA synthesis in vivo
  • AI model training for polymerases
  • Subcellular engineering (condensates, organelles, encapsulins/vault proteins, etc.)
  • Biosecurity, commercialization, and regulatory policy for nucleic acid synthesis

About GO

The DARPA GO program aims to develop a revolutionary molecular platform that enables direct, template-free programming of DNA or RNA sequences inside living cells using light as the information carrier. By bridging computational design and biological execution, GO aims to transform how genetic instructions are delivered, opening new possibilities for rapid, precise, and scalable biomanufacturing, therapeutics, and defense applications. Whether you’re part of the GO program or a scientist working in related fields, this event is your opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute.

What to expect

• GO Performer Team Sessions: Technical breakthroughs, lightning talks, and interactive panels from GO performers and their teams.
• Lightning Talks: We invite researchers across the scientific community to present their work through lightning talks or poster presentations. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your research, share ideas, and engage with the GO community.
• Poster & Networking Sessions: Showcase your research, exchange ideas, and build new collaborations with peers and experts. Dedicated time for networking and setting up joint experiments, fostering a collaborative research ecosystem.
• Biosecurity Forum: Explore dual-use risk mitigation, safety protocols, and ethical considerations for in vivo genetic synthesis.
• Commercialization & Policy Panel: Learn about regulatory pathways, intellectual property strategies, and transitioning technology to DoD and commercial partners.

Who should attend?

• GO program performers and collaborators
• Researchers in synthetic biology, optogenetics, molecular engineering, and computational biology
• Experts in biosecurity, regulatory policy, and commercialization
• Anyone interested in advancing the science and impact of generative optogenetics

Key dates

• Registration opens: July 1, 2026
• Research synopsis submission deadline: Aug.14, 2026
• Registration deadline: Sept. 23, 2026
• Workshop dates: Oct. 22–23, 2026

Register now!

Final workshop details and agenda are still being refined — stay tuned for updates! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this groundbreaking event. Register, submit your research synopsis, and help drive the future of GO!