The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) has released a new module titled 'Public Reaction to Science Research'. It is designed to increase scientists' awareness of the general public's perception of their research; the possible consequences; and how scientists can engage the public to address their concerns. It has been observed that most scientific research goes largely unnoticed by the general public until media reports reveal major scientific breakthroughs or biosafety accidents.
Susan Ehrlich, a former Judge in the Arizona Court of Appeals, is the public representative on the National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity (NSABB) and featured in the new module. In a series of video clips, she stresses the importance of scientific research and explains why scientists need to engage the public and address their concerns.
The module is the latest addition to the FAS Case Studies in Dual Use Biological Research multimedia online education material. The series illustrates the implications of dual-use biological research through case studies of researchers and provides a historical background on bioterrorism, bioweapons and the current laws, regulations and treaties that apply to biodefense research. Continuing development and expansion of the case studies is funded in part through a grant by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.
