Atomic Evidence ─ Seeing the Molecular Basis of Life

This book will take an evidence-based approach to current knowledge about biomolecules and their place in our lives, inviting readers to explore how we know what we know, and how current gaps in knowledge may influence the way we approach the information. Biomolecular science is increasingly important in our everyday life, influencing the choices we make about our diet, our health, and our wellness. Often, however, information about biomolecular science is presented as a list of immutable facts, discouraging critical thought. The book will introduce the basic tools of structural biology, supply real-life examples, and encourage critical thought about aspects of biology that are still not fully understood.

David Goodsell is an Associate Professor of Molecular Biology at the Scripps Research Institute, where he currently divides his time between research and science outreach. His research centers on methods for predicting and analyzing biomolecular complexes, and application of these methods to drug discovery and drug design. His science outreach work builds on his work in molecular graphics and computation. He currently authors a monthly column at the RCSB Protein Data Bank that presents molecular structure and function for general audiences. He has also written three general-interest books including "The Machinery of Life" and "Our Molecular Nature". He has also collaborated with science museums, filmmakers and popular authors on the creation of educational and outreach materials.