Skip to main content
21Oct

LSE Philosophy Seminar by Rachel Ankeny (Wageningen University)

Hosted by the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method
In person at LAK 2.06, Lakatos Building, London, WC2A 2AE United Kingdom. Online (Via Zoom)
Tuesday 21 October 2025 11am - 12.30pm

Title: "Organisms as technologies ​ between lab and field: ​Modelling in precision toxicology​" (co-authored with Sabina Leonelli)

Abstract: This paper explores an emerging set of scientific practices associated with the use of model organisms in toxicology both as tools and as representations. Organisms are developed used as technologies to monitor and assess chemicals in polluted waters, and hence serve as sentinel species and diagnostic agents. They simultaneously can be used for bioremediation to reduce hazards in chemical mixtures contained in waterways in the environment. Furthermore, these organisms are themselves objects of study which are used to assess which strains are most well-adapted to chemical pollution. The field of precision toxicology in particular has the ultimate goal of developing models of reduced chemical sensitivity that can be projected onto and investigated in other organisms, notably humans. Hence in this domain, these organisms bridge the typical field/lab divide through the simultaneous use of novel data-intensive approaches appropriate in complex real-world settings, and traditional practices and understandings associated with lab-based model organisms. We argue that such organisms can be viewed as material technologies that nevertheless retain their representational power, and provide an important example of a type of hybridity that will be increasingly common as field-based, big-data research leverages the knowledge, data, and technologies previously created in lab settings.​

Rachel Ankeny is an interdisciplinary teacher and scholar whose areas of expertise cross several fields: history/philosophy of the life sciences, agricultural and food studies, and bioethics and science policy.

Chair for this seminar: Professor Roman Frigg

This event will take place in person on LSE’s campus. However, those unable to attend in person will have the option of taking part online.

To join online just follow these instructions:

Please note that these events are routinely recorded, with the edited footage being made publicly available on our website and YouTube channel. We will only record the audio, the slides and the speaker and will not include the Q&A section. However, any question asked during the talk itself will feature in the final edit.

LSE holds a wide range of events, covering many of the most controversial issues of the day, and speakers at our events may express views that cause offence. The views expressed by speakers at LSE events do not reflect the position or views of the London School of Economics and Political Science.