Biological Threats in the Age of Emerging Biotechnology

Workshop

Biological Threats in the Age of Emerging Biotechnology – DNA Synthesis

September 18, 2025

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (ET)

Past

About

The foundational technologies enabling DNA synthesis include solid-phase synthesis using phosphonamidite chemistry to add individual bases one at a time and using enzymes to synthesize short fragments of DNA. More recently, companies are developing thermal methods that use temperature to control DNA synthesis, double-stranded oligonucleotide pools to create libraries of larger DNA fragments, microarrays using silicon microarray chips that can create and elongate tens of thousands of DNA fragments, and DNA amplification in the presence of a precisely designed template and primer. As these and other techniques are developed, companies are seeking to scale up production, as evidenced using microarray chips to synthesize numerous DNA pieces simultaneously. However, concerns about synthetic genomics and data security have been raised.

Contact

Sarah Juckett

(202) 334-3961
sjuckett@nas.edu

Disclaimer

It is essential to the National Academies mission of providing evidence-based advice that participants in any of our meetings or events avoid political or partisan statements or commentary and maintain a culture of mutual respect. The statements and presentations during our meetings or events are solely those of the individual participants and do not necessarily represent the views of other participants or the National Academy of Sciences, which is a non-partisan, tax exempt organization that includes under its Charter the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Medicine, and that operates the National Research Council.

Workshop

Biological Threats in the Age of Emerging Biotechnology – The Use of Multi-Omic Data to Affect Crop Improvement

September 17, 2025

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (ET)

Past

About

The integration of multi-omic data has the potential to revolutionize agriculture by enhancing crop improvement strategies. The use of in silico modeling and bioinformatic approaches allows for the precise prediction and manipulation of crop traits, improving yield, and resistance to diseases. However, this emerging biotechnology also presents challenges in terms of data security, regulatory frameworks, and ethical considerations, especially with regard to biodiversity and food security.

Contact

Sarah Juckett

(202) 334-3961
sjuckett@nas.edu

Disclaimer

It is essential to the National Academies mission of providing evidence-based advice that participants in any of our meetings or events avoid political or partisan statements or commentary and maintain a culture of mutual respect. The statements and presentations during our meetings or events are solely those of the individual participants and do not necessarily represent the views of other participants or the National Academy of Sciences, which is a non-partisan, tax exempt organization that includes under its Charter the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Medicine, and that operates the National Research Council.

Workshop

Biological Threats in the Age of Emerging Biotechnology – The Use of Multi-Omic Data to Affect Human Health

September 10, 2025

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (ET)

Past

About

The field of multi-omics has revolutionized our ability to understand and influence human health. The integration of these datasets through in silico modeling and other bioinformatic approaches is enabling a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying diseases and informing the development of personalized medicine. However, this emerging biotechnology presents significant ethical, legal, and social implications due to its dual-use potential and the risks associated with data security, privacy, and misuse.

Contact

Sarah Juckett

(202) 334-3961
sjuckett@nas.edu

Disclaimer

It is essential to the National Academies mission of providing evidence-based advice that participants in any of our meetings or events avoid political or partisan statements or commentary and maintain a culture of mutual respect. The statements and presentations during our meetings or events are solely those of the individual participants and do not necessarily represent the views of other participants or the National Academy of Sciences, which is a non-partisan, tax exempt organization that includes under its Charter the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Medicine, and that operates the National Research Council.

Meeting Closed

Frameworks Discussion for Assessing Dual-Use Potential in Bioeconomy Research

December 10, 2024

12:00 AM - 12:00 AM (ET)

Past

About

Existing biosafety and biosecurity policies and frameworks, which are focused on pathogens and toxins, may not address concerns associated with advances in research and development of bioeconomy-relevant biotechnologies and biomanufacturing. This meeting will discuss existing frameworks and their relationship to the participating countries.

Contact

Sarah Juckett

(202) 334-3961
sjuckett@nas.edu

Disclaimer

It is essential to the National Academies mission of providing evidence-based advice that participants in any of our meetings or events avoid political or partisan statements or commentary and maintain a culture of mutual respect. The statements and presentations during our meetings or events are solely those of the individual participants and do not necessarily represent the views of other participants or the National Academy of Sciences, which is a non-partisan, tax exempt organization that includes under its Charter the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Medicine, and that operates the National Research Council.

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Biological Threats in the Age of Emerging Biotechnology – A Workshop Series

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