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Bioterrorism and biodefence research: changing the focus of microbiology

Nature Reviews Microbiology volume 1, pages 70–74 (2003)Cite this article

Abstract

Fear that terrorists can use biological agents as weapons of mass destruction is significantly impacting the conduct of microbiological research. Abundant new funds are available for biodefence research, and many researchers are racing to enter the field. There are some concerns, however, that a large emphasis on this issue could skew the microbiology research agenda. Furthermore, new responsibilities for safely conducting research with biothreat agents and concern that information might be misused could drive some researchers away from the field.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Co-Director of the Center for the Deterrence of Biowarfare and Bioterrorism, University of Louisville and the Graduate Dean of the Graduate School, University of Louisville, Louisville, 40292, Kentucky, USA

    Ronald M. Atlas

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  1. Ronald M. Atlas
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FURTHER INFORMATION

CDC information on selected threats and diseases

CDC list of select agents

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Atlas, R. Bioterrorism and biodefence research: changing the focus of microbiology. Nat Rev Microbiol 1, 70–74 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro728

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