The Mariner Project

The Mariner Project is a science fiction novel written by Bob Marr. The author is a molecular virologist working on gene therapy applications of viral vectors to diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

The book was inspired by the fascinating properties of transposons. These repeated DNA sequences scattered throughout the genomes of the organisms of the world are emerging as key players in gene expression, function, recombination, and most importantly in evolution .

A recent review of the book states “First of all, I feel like the best part of this book is that the author is actually a scientist, so unlike most "science" based Sci Fi books, the science of this one actually has a very firm foundation. This solid science is then expounded in a very creative way to the story that is. A great read for all ages, the science may be a bit difficult for the younger students, but not beyond basic college biology. The book feels like it has three main "acts" of which there is some basic character overlap, but very little at times. This results in many points of view on the events that unfold. The simplicity of the writing lends itself to fantastic adaptability to the big screen, or at least a made for tv type movie.”