On 21 January 2025, IBBIS hosted a workshop on Dual-Use, Bioethics, and DNA Synthesis Screening as part of the Global Voices: Celebrating Diversity in Biosafety & Biosecurity conference, organized by the International Federation of Biosafety Associations (IFBA) in Arusha, Tanzania. The workshop brought together 22 participants from ten countries, including scientists, biorisk management professionals, policymakers, and government representatives.

Addressing the dual-use challenge

The workshop focused on the dual-use nature of biological science and technology—research that can drive innovation and address global challenges while simultaneously presenting potential risks of accidental or deliberate misuse. Discussions explored critical topics, such as:

• Balancing scientific openness with security measures.
• The impact of cultural differences and risk tolerances on bioethics.
• Strategies for fostering public trust in biotechnology.

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and synthetic biology, the interface between the digital and biological worlds is increasingly significant. DNA synthesis screening plays a crucial role in tracking access to potentially hazardous biological materials, helping mitigate emerging risks.

Interactive learning and games

Participants engaged in hands-on activities designed to enhance their understanding of dual-use risk assessment and mitigation strategies. The agenda included:

• A panel discussion on dual use, bioethics, and DNA synthesis screening: Experts examined differences in risk tolerance and risk perceptions, how to translate international guidance into national actions, public trust in science, and ethical considerations.
• A dual-use risk/benefit assessment and risk management game: Attendees conducted risk assessments of synthetic biology experiments using standardized evaluation tools.
• A customer screening game: Participants role-played scenarios to assess DNA synthesis orders, identifying potential security concerns and decision-making complexities.

Key insights and takeaways

During the workshop and discussions, panelists and participants highlighted the following:

• The biggest challenge was how to communicate, in terms understandable to everyone, both the risks and benefits of dual-use research.
• The most urgent challenge was to better regulate the implications of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

• The greatest opportunities were, first, increased funding for research in biosafety and biosecurity, as participants noted that although the last decade had seen an important increase in resources available for biosafety research, and second, triaging dual-use through methodologies for risk assessment.

IBBIS remains committed to supporting global efforts to safeguard biotechnology from misuse while promoting its beneficial applications.