Science & a Movie: Blade Runner with Fred Hutch

Join PacSci for a special screening of Ridley Scott’s iconic cyberpunk thriller, Blade Runner. Set in a dystopian future, this gripping film stars Harrison Ford as Rick Deckard, a blade runner tasked with tracking down four rogue replicants—bioengineered humans who have returned to Earth after stealing a spaceship.

Following the screening, we’ll be joined by a panel of research scientists from Fred Hutch Cancer Center. Panelists will delve into the science behind Blade Runner, discussing questions about genetic engineering and the mysteries of what it truly means to be human. The program will also include some time for audience members to ask panelists their own questions. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to explore the intersection of science fiction and cutting-edge research!

Blade Runner is rated R and contains graphic content. This event is recommended for guests ages 17 and up.

About the Speakers

Helen Anderson (Moderator)

Helen (she/her) grew up in Washington state with a passion for animals, which led her to study science and pursue a career as a vet. However, she soon discovered her love for genetics, eventually becoming a genetic counselor and later a Scientific Content Liaison at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, where she writes, supports educational and community engagement, and organizes events about cancer and infectious disease research.

Dr. Tamanash Bhattacharya

Tamanash (he/him) grew up in India, with the dream of developing vaccines. He graduated with a bachelors in bio-engineering and later moved to the US where he got a PhD in virology and infectious disease. At Fred Hutch Cancer Center, he conducts research to understand how viruses evolve to jump across different animal species, with the goal of preventing future pandemics.

Dr. Grant King

Grant King (he/him) grew up in southern California but, after bouncing around the country, has landed in Seattle for his post-doctoral work. His love of animals and microbes has led him to the field of evolutionary cell biology, which he is currently pursuing in the Malik Lab at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center.

Dr. Marius Walter

Marius Walter (he/him) is a scientist in the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division at Fred Hutch. He and his team are designing novel ways to combat infectious disease, with a focus on herpesviruses (HSV) infections. Dr. Walter’s work co-opts a naturally occurring phenomenon known as gene drive with the goal of reducing HSV infectivity and reactivation.

Schedule

• 6 p.m.: Doors open
• 6:30 p.m.: Brief introduction
• 6:45 p.m.: Film Screening
• 8:45 p.m.: Moderated Q&A with panelists

Tickets

• General: $5
• Members: Free