Geneva, 20 May 2026

The International Biosecurity and Biosafety Initiative for Science (IBBIS), on behalf of the DNA Synthesis Screening Consortium, is pleased to announce that the ISO Secretariat has formally approved its application for Category A Liaison status with ISO Technical Committee 276 (Biotechnology).

This important milestone strengthens the ability of the DSSC to contribute directly to the development and advancement of international biotechnology standards, including work related to nucleic acid synthesis screening, biosecurity, and responsible innovation.

The approval reflects growing international recognition of the importance of globally coordinated approaches to nucleic acid synthesis screening and responsible biotechnology governance. 

As a multi-stakeholder initiative convened under IBBIS, the DSSC brings together expertise from industry, academia, government, standards organisations, and civil society to strengthen and operationalise international DNA synthesis screening standards. Through this new liaison status, the DSSC will support the work of ISO/TC 276 by contributing technical expertise, implementation perspectives, and practical recommendations informed by ongoing international engagement.

Sophie Peresson, International Standards Lead at IBBIS and Lead of the DSSC, stated:

“The approval of Category A Liaison status marks an important milestone for the DSSC and for the broader international effort to strengthen responsible biotechnology governance. It provides a valuable mechanism for bringing diverse international expertise into ISO discussions and for supporting the development of practical, globally relevant standards for nucleic acid synthesis screening. We are committed to serving as an active and constructive liaison organisation and to contributing substantive technical input to support the work of ISO/TC 276.”

Piers Millett, Executive Director of IBBIS, added:

“International standards play a critical role in strengthening biosecurity while supporting innovation and scientific collaboration. We are delighted that the DSSC will now be able to engage more directly with ISO/TC 276 and contribute to ongoing international standardsdevelopment efforts. This approval reflects the importance of inclusive, international coordination to address emerging challenges at the intersection of biotechnology and Biosecurity.”

The DSSC will continue working closely with international partners, standards bodies, policymakers, and technical experts to support coherent and practical approaches to nucleic acid synthesis screening and biosecurity risk management.