In progress
Any project, supported or not by a committee, that is currently being worked on or is considered active, and will have an end date.
This two-part webinar will bring together technology developers, researchers, and policymakers working at the intersection of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and biological research for nuanced discussions that explore the impact of these technologies on innovation, potential biosecurity risks, and promising solutions. The first session (Nov 6) will examine the technological capabilities and bridge the needs for risk management between developers and policymakers. The second session (Nov 15) will focus on governance of these emerging technologies, including challenges in defining regulatory policies as well as approaches in safeguarding against these risks.
Description
Recent developments in generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools have a critical role in expanding the boundaries of life sciences research. AI applications have already been used to analyze images and large datasets, predict protein structures, and aid in drug discovery as enhanced biological design tools. Biological design in particular is a burgeoning field: AI-enabled tools can optimize the engineering of specific organisms or products, and have demonstrated ability in identifying new drug targets and designing lead compounds with novel chemical structures. However, there is concern that biological design tools can also be applied to enhancement or production of pathogens with pandemic potential and other bioterrorism agents. The convergence of AI-enabled biological design, synthetic biology, and large language models that democratize access to these tools has raised concern for biosecurity risks from accidental or intentional misuse.
Building on recent meetings that outlined broad recommendations on regulating the use of AI and safeguarding biosecurity, the Forum on Microbial Threats, in collaboration with the Board on Life Sciences, is holding a two-part webinar to further consider (1) the current and projected benefits vs risks in AI-enhanced life sciences research; and (2) challenges in developing practical approaches in governance.
Session 1, on Understanding Technology Capabilities, will be held on Monday, Nov 6 from 12:00-1:30 PM ET.
Session 2, on Enabling Safe Innovation and Governance, will be held on Wednesday, Nov 15 from 12:00-1:30 PM ET.
Please use the event page links above to register for the webinars. This webinar is free and open to the public, but will not be webcast. All attendees will need to register to receive information on joining the webinar.
Collaborators
Sponsors
Other, Federal
Private: For Profit
Private: Non Profit
Staff
Julie Liao
Lead
Lyly Luhachack
Kavita Berger
Claire Biffl
Liz Ashby
Julie Pavlin
