This book is based on an in-depth conversation between Howard Burton and Nick Lane, Professor of Evolutionary Biochemistry at University College London and bestselling author. After an inspiring story of Nick Lane’s career path, this wide-ranging conversation covers his bioenergetic view of early, evolutionary history, the origin of life and how all complex life is composed of a very particular cell type that we all share, and more. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, The Big Picture, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter:I. A Long and Winding Road - Nick goes round the housesII. Structuring Energy - Cells, membranes and a counterintuitive mechanismIII. Hydrothermal Vents - More than just chemistryIV. Simulational Challenges - Making your own hydrothermal ventV. Synoptic Justifications - Philosophers wantedVI. Becoming Complex - From prokaryotes to eukaryotesVII. Marvellous Mitochondria - Insights from a metabolic worldviewVIII. Open Questions - From the origin of life to consciousnessAbout Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: Presented in an accessible, conversational format, Ideas Roadshow books not only explore frontline academic research featuring world-leading researchers but also reveal the inspirations and personal journeys behind the research.