AAI Public Affairs: Biodefense

AAI Public Affairs
Policy Issues: Biodefense

Because pathogens used for bioterrorism can be natural or man-made, AAI believes that NIH, and specifically NIAID, should continue to lead the nation’s biodefense research effort.


►	Biodefense See AAI's nomination of Dennis Kasper to the National Biodefense Science Board See AAI FY 2008 testimony (3/29/07) and FY 2007 testimony (3/29/06) on biodefense issues
►	Dual Use Research: research that can be used for both beneficial and nefarious purposes AAI “Dual Use” Research Subcommittee - Examines and makes recommendations on issues related to "dual use" research and its publication Response to National Science Advisory Board on Biosecurity's (NSABB) Working Group Draft Report see information about the NSABB

► Response to NSABB Working Group Draft Report

On April 19, 2007 the NSABB Working Group on Oversight Framework Development released a draft report: “Proposed Strategies for Minimizing the Potential Misuse of Life Sciences Research” and solicited feedback from the scientific community and other stakeholders

See Report

CPA Dual Use Subcommittee has reviewed the draft report and was concerned about whether the requirements would be effective or simply overly burdensome for scientists

Subcommittee Chair Bonnie Blomberg and member Ray Welsh worked with FASEB to craft a response to the NSABB Draft Report

AAI Policy Guidelines Regarding Dual Use Research

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Updated 11/07/07