Ask a Professor: The Science and Ethics of the Dire Wolf 

In a recent installment of Georgetown University’s Ask a Professor series, Dr. Peter Marra Dean of the Earth Commons Institute, Acting Director of the Environmental Justice Program, and Laudato Si’ Professor of Biology and the Environment—shares his insights on the potential return of the dire wolf, a Pleistocene-era apex predator.

Dr. Marra discusses both the scientific feasibility and the ethical implications of “de-extinction,” the concept of bringing back extinct species through genetic engineering.

“It’s not a question of whether we can—it’s a question of whether we should,” Marra explains. “What are the ecological consequences, and do we understand the system well enough to reintroduce a top predator like the dire wolf?”

This timely and thought-provoking interview highlights the intersection of conservation biology, genetics, and environmental ethics—core themes in the interdisciplinary research taking place in our department.

We’re proud to see Dr. Marra’s leadership and expertise showcased nationally, and grateful to have his voice representing our department.

 Read the full article: Ask a Professor: Dire Wolf

Note: Image and information source: Georgetown University, Ask a Professor: Dire Wolf. https://www.georgetown.edu/news/ask-a-professor-dire-wolf/