Biotechnology Diplomacy

3 Credits · Level: Graduate

We are at another inflection point in time where technology is a central focus of diplomacy, policymaking, and global strategic competition. Biotechnology in particular promises to deliver novel products and services at lower costs for consumers, to create new jobs and markets, and to improve human, animal, plant, and environmental health and well-being. Biotechnology will solve global challenges in health, agriculture, climate, energy, and supply chains. At the same time, biotech presents unique challenges to national and economic security. As a dual use technology, it has both positive and harmful potential: e.g., viruses can be engineered to understand infectious diseases, yet the same technology tool and methods can generate viruses capable of the next pandemic. Therefore, there is both a desire to harness its positive potential while putting in place appropriate security measures to mitigate biotechnology-related risk. From biosecurity to export controls to investment screening, countries around the world are taking steps to balance “promote” and “protect.” Countries, companies, and academic institutions are also aligning with one another an affirmative vision for our “bio-future.” The United States and others are modernizing and transforming diplomatic efforts to address these technology-related challenges. This class will explore the intersection of biotechnology and national security, the implications of this technology for our economies and societies, and the role of diplomacy as the United States and its allies and friends pursue a technological future shaped by shared values and vision.