NAS announces initiative to connect entertainment industry with t...(with scientists engineers health profess...)

As science and technology have become staples of American television, the bar has been raised for better and more accurate science. Forensic investigation and medical shows such as CSI, HOUSE, and ER routinely incorporate cutting-edge science into their scripts. Studio films similarly capitalize on science themes. Movies such as CHILDREN OF MEN, MISSION IMPOSSIBLE, DJ VU, and A BEAUTIFUL MIND enlisted some aspect of science and technology to help tell their stories, while others like IRON MAN, MINORITY REPORT, WATCHMEN, and the STAR TREK series depend very heavily on a foundation of science.

Today, the Exchange was formally introduced to the Hollywood community during a symposium attended by entertainment industry professionals in Los Angeles. Hosted by writer and producer Seth MacFarlane (creator of FAMILY GUY), the symposium attracted more than 300 participants including writers, directors, producers, production designers and executives, as well as scientists, engineers, and health professionals. Sessions were divided into six topic areas: climate change and energy; astronomy and cosmology; genomics; artificial intelligence and robotics; rare and infectious diseases; and the brain and mind. The symposium was funded by the National Academy of Sciences; CuresNow founding members Lucy Fisher, Doug Wick, and Janet and Jerry Zucker; Davis Masten and Christopher Ireland; Bob and Anne James; the California Endowment in partnership with Hollywood, Health & Society; and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

The director of the Science and Entertainment Exchange is Jennifer Ouellette, an author and science writer. "Tapping into the NAS' database of experts will be a tremendous resource for Hollywood," she said. "Our goal is to bridge the gap between engaging content and science." The Exchange will be based in Los Angeles. For
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