Biotechnology and genomic technologies

ESF-supported Workshop on the Biological Containment of Synthetic Microorganisms: Science and Policy, 13-14 November 2012, EMBL, Heidelberg

This by-invitation workshop focussed on the containment of synthetic microorganisms and addressed three major questions: First, what potential risks to the environment are presented by the intentional release of genetically synthetic microorganisms? Second, what mechanisms can be employed to control these microorganisms in the environment? Finally, what are the parameters for risk assessment of these novel microorganisms?

The international and interdisciplinary experts evaluated current knowledge and identify research needs in these areas for science and policy. Biological control is an emerging issue in Europe and this meeting started discussions between experts and stakeholders.

Report from workshop

EMBO | EMBL Science & Society conference Personal and Public Health – Genomics, Medicine and Society, 7-8 November 2013

The next conference in the Science & Society conference series will focus on how the use of genomic information can benefit individual and public health. The conference speakers will present the status of genetic and genomic research and discuss the ethical, legal, economic and societal implications as well as the practical challenges of implementing the new knowledge into medical care. Visit the conference website for further details.