In this episode of Galaxy Balance, Samira Kiani, a genetic engineer, entrepreneur, and science storyteller working at the intersection of genome engineering, regenerative biology, and human meaning. Samira's scientific work spans synthetic biology, immune modulation, and cellular rejuvenation, while her broader mission explores how innovation can remain aligned with ethics consciousness, and care.

A former academic and DARPA Safe Genes investigator, Samira is the co-founder and CTO of HexemBio, where she is developing regenerative platforms inspired by early human development. Beyond the lab, she is the creator of Make People Better, an award-winning documentary examining the moral and societal implications of gene editing. This conversation explores authenticity in science, conscious innovation, the responsibility of power, and how the future of biotechnology depends as much on wisdom as capability.

00:00 - The philosophy of presence and being in the moment

02:15 - Origin story: From Iran to MIT in synthetic biology

04:23 - The art design in genetic engineering and synthetic biology as poetry

08:58 - Advice for young scientists feeling constrained by societal expectations

12:52 - Research journey at MIT: CRISPR and translating tech to clinics

15:51 - Ethical discussions in gene editing and public engagement

19:12 - Making "Make People Better": The moral dimensions of gene editing

22:01 - Reflection on the controversy of the first gene-edited babies

27:23 - Rethinking innovation culture and race for first publication

36:44 - Leaving academia: embracing authenticity and starting HexenBio

38:02 - HexemBio’s mission: rejuvenating cells with consciousness

43:24 - Origin stories of cells and connectedness in biology

45:58 - Her approach to science: exposing cells to youthful environments

47:54 - Leadership and empathy in building a conscious company

52:08 - Work-life balance: connecting with nature and spiritual practices

56:49 - The influence of science fiction: from dystopia to positive futures

1:00:15 - The philosophy of living in the present and trusting the universe