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Dual-use research of concern refers to research projects that, in the event of misuse or incidents, may have unacceptable consequences for human or animal health or for the environment. This applies to both research outputs and the related knowledge and technologies.

To this end, the Institut Pasteur has adopted a process to monitor projects involving dual-use research of concern so that the risks can be assessed, responsibility shared between the scientists and the institution, and measures taken to comply with the requirements of funding bodies and scientific journals. This monitoring process is currently applied to research projects in virology, but the aim is to extend it to all research involving pathogens.

Dedicated sessions will be held in the autumn to raise awareness of these challenges among research teams and support staff. After a short theoretical presentation, participants will be asked to take on the role of members of the committee responsible for assessing dual-use research projects, identifying risks, and making recommendations where necessary.

If you are interested and/or you believe that your work involves this type of experiment, whether you are a technician, engineer, PhD student, postdoctoral fellow, researcher, unit head or member of support staff (with a scientific background), the Legal Affairs Department is running a practical workshop on the topic on Thursday September 25 at 2pm, and on Friday October 3 at 10am.

The sessions will be held in French and if needed also in English (on request).

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To sign up, please email durc@pasteur.fr (max. 16 people).

More information about the monitoring process

Find out more about the Institut Pasteur's Ethics Committees