The Dual-Use Education Gap: Awareness and Education of Life Science Researchers on Nonpathogen-Related Dual-Use Research

With the rise of synthetic biology, dual-use research risks are not confined to pathogen-related research. However, existing measures to mitigate the risks of dual-use research, such as export control, are still designed to hinder access to pathogens and do not address the risks of nonpathogen-related dual-use research. The current self-regulatory approach requires scientists to be aware of their responsibility and know how to assess risks and establish countermeasures. The purpose of this study was to examine the state of knowledge about dual-use research among life science students and to test an alternative teaching approach on the importance of considering biosecurity risks for teams participating in the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition. We conducted an international survey from July 18 to September 13, 2018, which was completed by 192 respondents from 29 countries and 74 universities. Based on the results of the survey, we designed and tested a learning workshop on dual-use research within the iGEM community. Results from the workshop and the survey show that educational machinery so far have failed to integrate teaching about dual-use research issues.