PE-5205T

This new online module in Applied Dual-Use Biosecurity Education has been established in recognition of the potential that exists for producing research in life sciences for peaceful purposes that are well-intended for public benefit but which could be misused and directed for purposes such as biowarfare and bioterrorism. Consequently, this has given rise to what is now widely known as the 'dual-use dilemma' and the growing debate about the dual-use nature of life sciences research with implications for biological weapons making. Historically, this dual-use potential has been underappreciated by the life sciences and wider communities. However, recent terrorism events have heightened awareness and concern for this issue. Subsequently, there have been a range of international calls to promote education and awareness-raising among life scientists on the dual-use aspects of scientists research, and consequently among peace and conflict resolution specialists.

This is a train-the-trainer course targeted at improving biosecurity and dual-use awareness and education. The course aims to:

• Develop awareness and understanding of a range of dual-use conundrums and dilemmas that arise due to the impact of science and technology on society;
• Develop awareness and understanding of the ethical, legal and social relevance of dual-use biosecurity;
• Develop knowledge of approaches to the responsible conduct of research and other work and be able to provide justification for decisions or recommendations regarding dual-use technologies;
• Facilitate further research into ‘dual-use' biosecurity issues and develop policies and practices that will enhance responsible conduct of research and other work to prevent the misuse of knowledge generated by life and associated sciences.
• Develop competency and capacity in training others in responsible conduct of research and other work of relevance to dual-use biosecurity.

You will be introduced to scenarios where the results of well-intentioned scientific research can be used for both good and harmful purposes give rise to give rise to the `dual use dilemma`.

In this sense the course has an applied, practical dimension in that its aim is to enable and facilitate more bioethical research into `dual-use' issues, and facilitate best practice that will prevent the misuse of knowledge generated through biomedical research.

You are encouraged to bring their own personal ideas and experiences to the course, sharing these with your fellow participants in order to contextualise your knowledge and understanding in ways that will help you meet the challenges of conducting responsible research of relevance to dual-use biosecurity.

Why Study Applied Dual-Use Biosecurity Education?

The need to address the security implications of scientific research through education about dual-use has gathered momentum in the 21st Century. Notably, this area has witnessed the following developments:

• Publication of Scientific Research Findings: In 2003 scientific journal editors issued a joint statement on the importance of biodefence and biosecurity considerations. [Nature 421: 771 (20 February 2003)].

• Policy for Science in US Higher Education: The need for mandatory biosecurity education for all federally funded US education institutions has been stated by the NSABB, Strategic Plan for Outreach and Education on Dual-Use Research Issues (DHHS, Bethesda, MD, 2008).

• Security Policies: Dual-use education to all life scientists was recommended by the Commission on the Prevention of WMD Proliferation and Terrorism, World at Risk in 2008.

• Funders of Scientific Research: In the UK scientists are asked by the Medical Research Council and the Wellcome Trust to consider the dual-use implications of their work.

• States Parties to the BTWC: With regard to the possible misuse of biological science research, in 2008 States Parties noted that, "formal requirements for seminars, modules or courses, including possible mandatory components, in relevant scientific and engineering training programmes and continuing professional development education could assist in raising awareness and in implementing the Convention". 

Why Study Online?

By studying online you get to:

• Gain 30 UK Higher Education Master-Level Credits without leaving your own workplace / home.
• Demonstrate your ability to study at Masters-Level.
• Fulfil requirements to undertake Masters-Level Continuing Professional Development.
• Avoid difficulties of travelling and living abroad, and complicated visa arrangements, and,
• Reduce your carbon footprint 

• A first degree, usually Upper Second Class (2:1) Honours or equivalent
• 6.0 IELTS or equivalent
• No previous knowledge of biosecurity or bioethics is required.

This module is fully moderated and accredited by the University of Bradford with successful candidates being awarded 30 UK Higher Education Masters Level Credits on completion of the module.