Barbara Del Castello

Key Findings The key issues include whether AI is a force multiplier or a game changer for biological threats, whether it is more fruitful to restrict AI models or to focus on specific threat actors, what the escalation and deterrence thresholds might be, and the tension between security and scientific and commercial progress.

Key Findings There are five key biological functions that are vulnerable to AI-driven modification: altered host range or tropism, increased genome replication, immune or medical countermeasure evasion, increased environmental stability, and increased transmission dynamics. Evaluations of the severity of potential misuse in AI-enabled biological design should consider both the negative impacts that could be caused by modifications and the likelihood of successful modifications.

RISKY BIOLOGICAL RESEARCHDefining Risk in Biological Research: Why Researchers Need Clearer Oversight Frameworks Published 8 November 2025 Policymakers and researchers need a consistent and transparent way to weigh the risks and benefits of risky biological research to facilitate review processes and oversight. At the United Nations General Assembly in September, President Trump highlighted his concerns about risky biological research.