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

Follow the conversation online using #BioSecurity and following @NewAmericaISP.