Eight Strategies to Engage Industry in Biosecurity

Abstract

A significant portion of the domestic bioresearch base—and the one most likely to provide translational research—is not engaged in biodefense. Despite the fact that more than one-third of all life science researchers are employed in commercial bioresearch, fewer than 3% of the 1,500 U.S. biotechnology companies are involved in biosecurity initiatives. The biotech industry has largely not aligned itself to play an integral role in biosecurity, but there are a few policy changes that could dramatically alter this balance. These include engaging and motivating the biotechnology middle class, seeding secondary markets, focusing on system solutions, providing reagents and standards, aligning communications, and prioritizing translational research. By reaching out, policymakers can span the current chasm between the bioindustry and government, build a stable biodefense industrial base, establish solid working relationships, and secure better services and products. The rewards would be significant for government and industry alike.