House of Lords Exploring Potential of Engineering Biology

The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee is launching an inquiry to explore the scope, applications, current landscape and ethical implications of engineering biology. The committee is inviting written contributions until Tuesday 7 May 2024.

On Tuesday 2nd April the House of Lords launched an enquiry into engineering biology. This enquiry will explore various aspects of engineering biology in the UK. This enquiry follows on from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s National Vision for Engineering Biology.

Questions asked will include:

• What are the UK’s key strengths in the area of engineering biology?
• What are the key applications for engineering biology?
• How can Government policy support the development of engineering biology?
• How can the UK maximise the economic potential of developments in engineering biology?
• What are the risks posed to society by engineering biology?
• How should engineering biology be regulated?
• What are the possible barriers and limitations to good and effective use of engineering biology?

The council are accepting written contributions to the enquiry from 2nd April - 7th May 2024. They will also be taking oral evidence from experts in the field. This includes an upcoming meeting on 16th April 2024.

The EngBio IRC is coordinating a response from the University of Cambridge. If you would like to contribute, please contact coordinator@engbio.cam.ac.uk.