The Future of Biosafety: Confronting Gain-of-Function Research

Credit: Heritage Foundation

‘Since the outbreak of COVID-19, new scientific analyses and insider accounts have revealed major vulnerabilities in how the United States oversees high-risk biological research. Gain-of-function research and enhanced pathogen experiments are often conducted with limited transparency and inconsistent safeguards, posing a unique threat when governance structures fail. Insights from recent investigations and firsthand experience from public health leaders underscore the troubling reality that the systems meant to protect the public were not designed for the scale and complexity of today’s biological threats.

‘This event will examine what went wrong and how U.S. policy must evolve to prevent another crisis. Experts will explore the scientific and national security implications of gain-of-function research, highlight weaknesses in current oversight, and discuss realistic reforms. The discussion will clarify risks and outline steps needed to strengthen America’s biosafety posture.’ Speakers:

• Mariannette Miller-Meeks — U.S. Representative
• Robert Redfield, M.D. — Former Director, CDC
• Richard Ebright, Ph.D. — Professor, Rutgers University and Laboratory Director, Waksman Institute of Microbiology
• Alina Chan, Ph.D. — Co-author of "VIRAL: The Search for the Origin of Covid-19" and Genetic Engineering Expert
• Jay W. Richards, Ph.D. — Vice President, Social and Domestic Policy, William E. Simon Senior Research Fellow
• Robert E. Moffit, Ph.D. — Senior Research Fellow, DeVos Center for Human Flourishing