A New Synthesis for Dual Use Research of Concern

• “Dual use research of concern,” or DURC, denotes beneficial life sciences research whose results could be misused by those wishing to cause harm. • Dual use was largely ignored until a couple of years ago, when debate erupted over the publication of manuscripts describing enhanced transmissibility of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza. • Dual use has not served its intended purpose of clearly delineating research that might require additional scrutiny. • Over the decade, the debate has largely switched focus from biosecurity to biosafety. • We propose a path forward that we believe better defines the issues at hand.