Biosecurity in the Age of Genome Editing

In 2012-2013, researchers demonstrated the use of a new genome editing tool called CRISPR, which allows scientists to add, delete, or modify genes more precisely, faster, and cheaper than ever before. This technology promises major beneficial contributions, yet it has the potential to radically alter the security landscape. In a new report “Editing Biosecurity: Needs and Strategies for Governing Genome Editing” based on two years of study by researchers from George Mason University, Stanford University, and New America examines the issue and provides concrete and actionable options for policy makers.

To discuss the results of the study, New America welcomes Gregory Koblentz, Associate Professor and Director of the Biodefense program at the Schar School at George Mason University; Edward Perello, a research fellow at the Institute for Philosophy and Public Policy at George Mason University; Jesse Kirkpatrick, a New America International SecurityProgram Fellow and Assistant Professor at George Mason University, Megan Palmer, Senior Research Scholar, Center for International Securityand Cooperation, Stanford University, and David Relman, Professor of Microbiology & Immunology, Senior Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University, and Chief of Infectious Diseases at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System.

PARTICIPANTS

Jesse Kirkpatrick
Fellow, New America International Security Program
Assistant Professor, Institute for Philosophy and Public Policy at George Mason University

Gregory Koblentz
Associate Professor, George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government

Megan Palmer
Senior Research Scholar, Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC) at Stanford University

Edward Perello
Research Fellow, Institute for Philosophy and Public Policy at George Mason University

David Relman
Professor of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University
Chief of Infectious Diseases, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System

MODERATOR

Daniel Rothenberg
Co-Director, New America Future of War Initiative
Professor of Practice, Arizona State University

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