Global Evolution of Dual-Use Biotechnology

Biological science and biotechnology are growing at a phenomenal pace--in capability, in geographic spread, and in the development of individual skills and supporting infrastructures. However, characteristics that make biotechnology such a powerful source of medical, scientific, industrial, and other legitimate applications also offer opportunities to those who deliberately seek to inflict harm. This report explores the potential benefits--and dangers--posed by this technology's development and spread, the ability to detect malicious applications, and the prospects for technical and policy controls that might mitigate adverse applications and safeguard beneficial ones.

Gerald Epstein is a senior fellow in the CSIS Homeland Security Program. Previously, he served with the Institute for Defense Analyses.