Biosecurity and the Review and Publication of Dual-Use Research of Concern
Publication: Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science
Volume 10, Issue Number 3
Abstract
Dual-use research of concern (DURC) is scientific research with significant potential for generating information that could be used to harm national security, the public health, or the environment. Editors responsible for journal policies and publication decisions play a vital role in ensuring that effective safeguards exist to cope with the risks of publishing scientific research with dual-use implications. We conducted an online survey of 127 chief editors of life science journals in 27 countries to examine their attitudes toward and experience with the review and publication of dual-use research of concern. Very few editors (11) had experience with biosecurity review, and no editor in our study reported having ever refused a submission on biosecurity grounds. Most respondents (74.8%) agreed that editors have a responsibility to consider biosecurity risks during the review process, but little consensus existed among editors on how to handle specific issues in the review and publication of research with potential dual-use implications. More work is needed to establish consensus on standards for the review and publication of dual-use research of concern in life science journals.
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Published In
Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science
Volume 10 • Issue Number 3 • September 2012
Pages: 290 - 298
PubMed: 22871221
Copyright
Copyright 2012, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
History
Published online: 11 September 2012
Published in print: September 2012
Published ahead of print: 7 August 2012
Accepted: 26 June 2012
Received: 14 February 2012
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