The work of the Emergence@ASU group is highlighted in a recent interview with Prof. Sara Walker by Bruce Dorminey at Forbes.com. Here's a clip from the article:

“The role of information in physical systems might be a way of understanding life and human existence in terms of physics,” said Walker. “So, we’re hoping for a more satisfying answer to why we’re here. If we have a better understanding of what life is, then we can better understand why it exists in the universe.”

You can read the full story here.

New textbook available on astrobiology! 

Astrobiology: An Evolutionary Approach is an interdisciplinary textbook that presents astrobiology as a dynamic, developing science of the utmost importance for the future of humanity. Featuring contributions from leaders in physics, chemistry, astronomy, biology, molecular biology, ecology, planetary science, geography, and geology, the book discusses the evolution of abiotic matter to biotic matter and emphasizes new discoveries in prebiotic chemistry, such as solid-state (solventless), in/on-water, and multicomponent reactions. It describes the most challenging problems involved in the field of astrobiology and invites the reader to become actively involved in their solution. Look for the chapter titled "Transition from Abiotic to Biotic: Is There an Algorithm for It?" contributed by Prof. Walker!

More information is available here.