About
Neal Baer’s work on CRISPR spans editorial leadership, public scholarship, and science communication. In 2020, he edited a landmark special issue of Perspectives in Biology and Medicine that brought together scientists, ethicists, and thinkers to examine the promises and dangers of gene editing—a project that earned the Council of Editors of Learned Journals’ award for Best Public Intellectual Special Issue. Building on that foundation, Baer authored The Promise and Peril of CRISPR (2024), a deeply researched exploration of the technology’s ethical, medical, and societal stakes. Across these projects, he translates complex science into accessible narrative, challenging readers to consider how genetic technologies will shape the future of health, equity, and human identity.
Awards
Best Public Intellectual Special Issue (2020) – Council of Editors of Learned Journals(For the Perspectives in Biology and Medicine CRISPR Special Issue)
Awards
George Foster Peabody Award (1995) – for Excellence in Broadcasting, as Writer
Public Service Award, National Kidney Foundation (1995) – for “The Gift” episode
People’s Choice Awards (1995–2000) – Favorite Dramatic Series / Favorite New Series
Golden Globe Nominations (1996–2000) – Best Dramatic Series
Emmy Award Nominations (1996–2001) – Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Writing
Gracie Award (1996) – for “Calling Dr. Hathaway”
Nancy Susan Reynolds Award (1997) – for HIV storyline
GLAAD Award Nomination (1999) – for “Stuck on You”
Literacy in Media Awards (1999, 2000, 2001) – for “Middle of Nowhere,” “Loose Ends,” and “Rescue Me”
Freddie Award (2000) – Outstanding Medical Show on Patient Care
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