Biology Gone Bad

UN bioweapons expert Dr Piers Millett says biologists must do more to prevent research being used for harmful or criminal acts

The Biologist Vol 60(2) p8

Concerns are resurfacing over the potential for biology to be used to deliberately instigate disease. As yet we have no sure-fire way to maximise the benefits of biology while minimising any risks. But you are going to hear a great deal more about ‘dual use research of concern’ (DURC) over the next few years.The 2012 debates over the publication of influenza research are just the start.

Biological weapons have a well documented history. Every major power of the 20th century developed them, with state bioweapons programmes taking advantage of every peaceful advance available at the time...

Want to continue reading this article?
Click to login.