AAAS - The World's Largest General Scientific Society

Programs: Science and Policy

http://shr.aaas.org//projects/biosecurity/index.shtml

AAAS Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program

Biosecurity

September 11th ushered heightened security concerns intended to safeguard the welfare of the United States. Scientists, however, are now faced with novel challenges that could encumber the openness customary for the progress of science. AAAS has focused on the relationship between national security and scientific freedom. SRHRL has held symposia, conducted studies, and provides resources for scientists working in a post-9/11 environment.

Regulating the Boundaries of Dual-Use Research
[2012]

A new U.S. policy for dual-use life science research defines what is permissible by scientists and the government. However, further negotiations will be needed as governments realize the consequences of such boundaries for research and society. More...

Abstract | Full Text | PDF

[ILLUSTRATION] Mirror images of glassware: normal and distorted glassware in shadows

Building the Biodefense Policy Workforce
[2009]

Academic support, training, funding, and recruitment efforts are needed within biodefense programs to educate experts in policymaking and prepare scientists for bioterrorism challenges, according to a AAAS-sponsored workshop report.

			Workforce Development: Preparing the Next Generation for Infectious Disease Threats [2009] Current training programs for stakeholders in the public health workforce need to incorporate more field experience, cross-training, and team-based activities, according to a AAAS-sponsored workshop report. More...

Biological Safety Training Programs as a Component of Personnel Reliability
[2009]

Research institutions require renewed training and mentorship standards, as well as increased funding for biosafety training, research, and high-containment laboratories, according to a AAAS-sponsored workshop report. Exisiting employment and biosafety training practices should be considered before developing new personnel reliability programs. More...

			Professional and Graduate-Level Programs on Dual Use Research and Biosecurity for Scientists Working in the Biological Sciences [2008] Scientists doing dual use research—beneficial work that may be misapplied for malicious purposes in the wrong hands—need more tools to help them understand the scientific, ethical and legal issues surrounding their work, according to a AAAS-sponsored workshop report. More…

			Science and Security in the Post-9/11 Environment [2004] Since 9/11, the challenge of finding the right balance between serving our national security and maintaining the openness required for the advancement of science has become more vexing than ever. By providing issue briefs and links to useful resources on key issues related to this topic, this website aims to aid scientists, policy makers, and the general public as they struggle to meet this challenge. More…

			The War on Terrorism: What Does It Mean for Science? [2001] In the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, the already complex balance between national security and scientific freedom and human rights has become even more complicated. At the same time, scientists and engineers have begun to reassess their professional and social responsibilities in light of the changed situation. More…

For more AAAS projects on biosecurity, visit AAAS Center for Science, Technology and Security Policy.

More Information: 2009 Science Education Forum on Dual Use