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Biosecurity

Biosecurity research protects against biological threats and misuse of biotechnology. The National Academies study detection, preparedness, and policy frameworks that strengthen public safety. 

What's happening

Supporting Responsible Innovation of Synthetic Cells

Announcement

Synthetic cell technology has the potential to offer innovative solutions in health, environmental sciences, agriculture, and manufacturing. A new National Academies report examines how this emerging field can advance and makes recommendations to ensure research develops in ways that are safe, secure, and responsive to societal needs while managing uncertainty and risk.

Apr 29, 2026
Scientists conduct scientific experiments in the biosafety cabinet of the laboratory .

Featured Publications

Featured work

State of Human H5N1 Diagnostics: A Rapid Expert Consultation

Individually-Authored Product

Completed

Assessing and Navigating Biosecurity Concerns and Benefits of Artificial Intelligence Use in the Life Sciences

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Biotechnology Capabilities for National Security Needs--Leveraging Advances in Transdisciplinary Biotechnology

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Current State of Research, Development, and Stockpiling of Smallpox Medical Countermeasures

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Addressing Inaccurate and Misleading Information about Biological Threats through Scientific Collaboration and Communication in Southeast Asia

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Biotechnology Research in an Age of Terrorism

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Enhancing Global Health Security Through International Biosecurity and Health Engagement Programs

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Dual Use Research of Concern: Options for Future Management

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Developing a Framework for an International Faculty Development Project on Education about Research in the Life Sciences with Dual Use Potential

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Trends in Science and Technology Relevant to the Biological Weapons Convention: An International Workshop

Consensus/Advisory Activity

Completed

Units

Biomedical and Health Sciences Program Area

Oversight Unit

In Progress

Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST)

Oversight Unit

In Progress

Life Sciences and Biotechnology Program Area

Oversight Unit

In Progress
Magnified body's raw materials, stem cells

Standing Committee on Advances and National Security Implications of Transdisciplinary Biotechnology

Standing Committee

In Progress

Committee on Science, Technology, and Law

Standing Committee

In Progress

Standing Committee on Emerging Infectious Diseases and 21st Century Health Threats

Standing Committee

In Progress

Forum on Medical and Public Health Preparedness for Disasters and Emergencies

Roundtable/Forum

In Progress

Forum on Microbial Threats

Roundtable/Forum

In Progress

Board on Global Health

Standing Committee

Recently Completed

Board on Life Sciences

Standing Committee

Recently Completed
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