Hear how AI can engineer nature’s comeback at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

Bringing extinct species back to life has transitioned from science fiction to the mission of a billion-dollar startup, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, genetics, and computational biology. These breakthroughs raise critical questions about whether technology should be used for de-extinction and what role AI should play in biodiversity's future. These questions will take center stage during a fireside chat at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 titled 'Can We Engineer Nature’s Comeback?' Ben Lamm, co-founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, will join the discussion to explore the technologies behind synthetic biology and AI-driven conservation. Disrupt returns to Moscone West in San Francisco from October 13 to 15, gathering thousands of founders and investors. The session highlights how researchers leverage AI to analyze genetic data and model biological systems, expanding AI's footprint from digital realms into the natural world.