It was an excellent opportunity where our CTO Anna Cláudia Alves de Souza could discuss biotechnology and innovation focusing on safety and security; responsibilities that we have for keep doing science and giving sustainable solutions to the market.
Brazilian Women in Biotechnology: Advancing Science with Responsibility and Security It was a privilege to participate as the President of the Brazilian Society for Biosafety and Biosecurity (SB3) in the workshop "Women in Biotechnology: Ensuring Safety and Responsible Research," held from November 11-14, 2024, in Fortaleza, Brazil. Supported by the US Department of State and Health Security Partners (HSP), this event highlighted the critical importance of fostering responsibility, security, and ethical innovation in biotechnology. In my opening remarks, I reflected on the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, whose scientific achievements came with profound ethical dilemmas. This resonates with our responsibility as biotechnologists to navigate innovations with transformative benefits while mitigating risks. The workshop celebrated the unique contributions of women in biotechnology while addressing critical challenges in the field. The agenda featured distinguished experts: . Luis Ochoa Carrera (ABSA International) provided insights on biosafety principles and international frameworks essential for bioprotection. . Dr. Leyma P. De Haro, Ph.D., RBP(ABSA), RBSO (CABS) (California Institute of Technology), explored the risks of dual-use research and artificial intelligence. . Luis Ramos (Ministry of Defense, BWC) highlighted international regulatory cooperation. . Dr. Filippa Lentzos (King's College London) shared strategies for addressing challenges in emerging biotechnologies. . Dr. Barbara Johnson examined ethical dilemmas in dual-use research and the role of bioethics. . Dr. Paula Coelho PhD, MSc, PMP (Centro de Excelência em IA (CEIA) & Centro de Competência EMBRAPII em Tecnologias Imersivas (AKCIT)) discussed the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and biotechnology. . Dr. Anna Cláudia Alves de Souza (Recombine Biotech) shared her entrepreneurial journey in biotechnology. . Dr. Patricia Pranke (IPCT, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul) addressed predatory research partnerships and bioeconomy development in Brazil. . Dr. Cristina Godoy Bernardo de Oliveira (USP, CIAAM) showcased the role of artificial intelligence in advancing bioprotection. Special thanks to Profa. Karinne Spirandelli Naves (SB3), Dr. Leila Macedo, Jamie Li, MPH, Diandra Coleman, and Stephanie Mattoon, MPH (HSP), for their leadership and dedication. Their contributions were pivotal in making this workshop a success. This workshop exemplifies the power of collaboration and women's critical role in shaping biotechnology's future. We are building a foundation for a safer and more responsible scientific community by fostering partnerships and promoting ethical practices. #Biosafety #Biosecurity #WomenInBiotechnology #Collaboration #EthicalInnovation #SB3 #HSP #BEP