A broad definition of HGT can be construed as a mechanism whereby there is a transfer of genetic material between donor and recipient cells or the active take-up of heterologous DNA from the environment by recipient competent cells, followed by recombination or replication (Sohan Jheeta, NoR HGT & LUCA Chairman, 2013).

There are many laboratories specifically researching into the question of the origin of life on Earth: equally there is large amount of research, not necessarily directly involved in answering the posed question which may well be able to contribute something to the sum of our knowledge. It is from this position that NoR HGT & LUCA has been established, with the aim of kick-starting debate so that the issues surrounding LUCA genetics can be examined and new discoveries promoted by a wide and diverse array of experts. Our regular meetings and workshops will ensure that research and ideas from all spheres of interest in HGT and LUCA can be aired and shared.

Our aims and objectives are to promote the dissemination of research information relating to the chemical evolution and reorganisation of genetics of the last universal common (or cellular) ancestor (LUCA), its emergence and development to the point of the advent of the three domains of life, namely Archaea, Bacteria and Eukarya.