I agree with Bob and N10. Being able to create recombinant DNA is a
major quantum leap.

To that, however, I would add DNA sequencing. Because of this, we've
been able to sequence the human genome and hundreds of other species.
Now, with automated sequencing, we're able to sequence entire genomes
(like bacteria) in around a month. That's an incredible feat. And
having all this genetic info at our fingertips has really brought about
great advances not only in molecular biology, but in biology in
general.

From a non-biological point of view, I think the biggest quantum leap
of our time is the invention of the Internet. Anything I could ever
want to know is a keystroke or mouse-click away. Instead of spending
countless hours in a library looking up papers, I can find everything
relevant to my topic in about 2 seconds. I think that's revolutionary.

--Alex

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Alex B. Berezow, Grad Student
Dept. of Microbiology
University of Washington School of Medicine
Seattle, WA 98195