Course

Engineering Life: Synbio, Bioethics & Public Policy

Johns Hopkins University

Synthetic biology (synbio) is a dynamic field with far-reaching applications, presenting complex ethical and governance dilemmas. This course, offered by Johns Hopkins University, delves into the multifaceted landscape of synbio, exploring its historical development, contemporary challenges, and future implications.

Through a blend of curated readings, lectures, interviews, and discussions with experts in the field, participants will gain a deep understanding of the ethical and policy issues inherent in the design, implementation, and regulation of synthetic biology. Real-life case studies will offer insight into the practical application of synbio, prompting learners to critically analyze the associated ethical and governance considerations.

  • Gain insight into the historical evolution of recombinant DNA technology and its governance
  • Explore the ethical implications of gain-of-function research, biofuels, and synbio-based medical applications
  • Engage with experts to understand the complexities of governance models and public engagement in synbio
  • Undertake a final project to develop and propose governance models for synthetic biology

By the course's conclusion, participants will be equipped to navigate the intricate ethical and policy challenges that accompany the advancement of synthetic biology, and develop informed governance approaches for this rapidly evolving field.

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Engineering Life: Synbio, Bioethics & Public Policy
Course Modules

Engineering Life: SynBio, Bioethics & Public Policy covers a range of modules, including the history of recombinant DNA technology, ethical implications of gain-of-function research and biofuels, synbio in human health, and governance models. Participants will engage with experts through a variety of content formats to deepen their understanding of ethical and policy issues in synthetic biology.

Welcome to Engineering Life: SynBio, Bioethics & Public Policy

Welcome to Engineering Life: SynBio, Bioethics & Public Policy. This module provides an overview of the course and introduces the syllabus, setting the stage for the exploration of ethical and policy issues in synthetic biology.

Recombinant DNA Technology: Science and History

Delve into the historical development of recombinant DNA technology and its governance, providing essential context for understanding the ethical and policy challenges in synthetic biology.

GOF Research

Explore the ethical implications of gain-of-function (GOF) research, including dual-use research, through case studies and expert insights. Engage in discussions and analysis of the ethical issues raised by GOF research.

Biofuels

Investigate the ethical challenges associated with biofuels and their applications in synthetic biology. Gain valuable perspectives from interviews with experts, and critically examine the ethical considerations of synbio-based biofuels.

Human Health

Examine the role of synthetic biology in human health, including human genetic modification and medical applications. Explore case studies and ethical dilemmas, and analyze the governance of synbio-based medical applications.

Governance

Understand the complexities of governance and engagement in synthetic biology. Explore various governance models and engage with experts to develop a comprehensive understanding of governance issues and public engagement in synbio.

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