Biosafety, Biosecurity, and Emerging Technologies

Gryphon Scientific studies practices that help prevent exposure to or release of pathogens from laboratories, either due to accidental failure of containment practices or through intentional malicious acts such as theft of materials or data. Gryphon Scientific also furthers understanding and mitigation of the risks of new technologies such as biotechnologyincluding their potential to be used to create harm, reduce barriers to technology misuse, or diminish economic and national security. Through assessing technological capabilities, adversary goals, and competitive advantages, Gryphon Scientific seeks to defend against attacks by malicious actors as well as harmful competition and interference from rival nations.

CASE STUDIES

01

Assessing the Risks and Benefits of Conducting Research on Pathogens of Pandemic Potential

Gryphon Scientific performed a risk and benefit assessment of research on viruses with pandemic potential to inform the development of a new federal policy on the review and oversight of that research. The quantitative risk assessment estimated the likelihood and consequences of research accidents and potential malicious use— including a first-of-its-kind examination of how human errors drive biosafety risk. The benefit assessment used a novel qualitative methodology to provide the most detailed benefits analysis of a field of scientific research ever undertaken.
02

Strengthening Poliovirus Containment Strategies and Capabilities

Gryphon Scientific is assisting the World Health Organization with several efforts related to the final containment of poliovirus after eradication. Gryphon Scientific is playing a major role in enabling a safe post-polio world Through leading the effort to update the Global Action Plan for Poliovirus Containment (GAP III), training government stakeholders on principles of biorisk management, and developing training and communication tools.
03

Assessing the Role of U.S. and Other Foreign Engagement in China's Biotechnology Development

In the past decade, China’s biotechnology industry has grown tremendously, fueled by Chinese government policies promoting the biotechnology sector as a driver of economic growth and increased foreign interaction with the U.S. and other countries. Gryphon Scientific, in partnership with Rhodium Group, performed an extensive investigation of China’s biotechnology industry, and the role of U.S. companies in its development, to assess the economic and security implications for the U.S. Our report provides a comprehensive look at a growing power in the global biotechnology industry and includes recommendations for specific steps to ensure continued vitality of the U.S. biotechnology industry and the security of our country.