So called 'dual-use' research, beneficial technology with the potential for misuse, was the topic of a debate at the Society of Biology in London last month. Advances in genetic technologies, open access research and amateur science groups have great potential to benefit the biosciences, but we need to address the risks that come with them. As part of the Society of Biology Policy Lates discussion series, an expert panel discussed how to minimise the risk of bioscience translating into bioweapons. This is an emotive topic with fears about threats to security, and conversely, threats to the freedom of science. The importance of access to research is widely acknowledged, yet there have been suggestions that publication of dual-use research should be restricted.
展开▼
