See all GES Media Mentions
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Narrowing in on NanotechnologySociety for Risk Analysis, Let's Talk Risk Podcast | 11/25/2025Khara Grieger, assistant professor of environmental health and risk assessment at NC State University, joins Dr. Sandra Alday to discuss emerging nanotechnologies and their unique applications. Grieger discusses avenues to managing the risks of nanotech development in biotechnology and genetic engineering, as well as the rise of artificial intelligence. • Read more » | 11/25/2025 | Society for Risk Analysis | Let's Talk Risk Podcast | Khara Grieger, assistant professor of environmental health and risk assessment at NC State University, joins Dr. Sandra Alday to discuss emerging nanotechnologies and their unique applications. Grieger discusses avenues to managing the risks of nanotech development in biotechnology and genetic engineering, as well as the rise of artificial intelligence. | Khara Grieger |
Rodolphe Barrangou Inducted into the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, American Academy of Arts & Sciences | 10/10/2025Academy President Laurie L. Patton and Chair of the Board of Directors Goodwin H. Liu have announced that nearly 250 outstanding individuals have been elected to the Academy in 2025. • Read more » | 10/10/2025 | American Academy of Arts & Sciences | Academy President Laurie L. Patton and Chair of the Board of Directors Goodwin H. Liu have announced that nearly 250 outstanding individuals have been elected to the Academy in 2025. | Rodolphe Barrangou | |
Podcast: PFAS in Our Food: What the Science Says About "Forever Chemicals"Katie Sanders, The Science That Feeds Us | 10/10/2025In this episode, Dr. Khara Grieger and Dr. Katy May join us to explore the growing concern around PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” and their connection to our food and water systems. • Read more » | 10/10/2025 | Katie Sanders | The Science That Feeds Us | In this episode, Dr. Khara Grieger and Dr. Katy May join us to explore the growing concern around PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” and their connection to our food and water systems. | Khara Grieger |
Focused on the FutureD’Lyn Ford, NC State CALS News | 8/28/20252025 CALS Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Rodolphe Barrangou reflects on his journey from an NC State graduate student to a world-renowned scientist. • Read more » | 8/28/2025 | D’Lyn Ford | NC State CALS News | 2025 CALS Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Rodolphe Barrangou reflects on his journey from an NC State graduate student to a world-renowned scientist. | Rodolphe Barrangou |
CRISPR, Then and Now: A 2025 Update with Rodolphe BarrangouAdrian Percy, AgTech 360 Podcast | 7/15/2025Rodolphe shares insights on the FDA approval of CRISPR-based therapies, the rise of gene-edited crops in global markets, and the growing role of AI in designing precision edits. He also reflects on the progress of regulatory frameworks, the importance of public trust, and what scientists, companies, and governments must consider as CRISPR scales from the lab to the marketplace. • Read more » | 7/15/2025 | Adrian Percy | AgTech 360 Podcast | Rodolphe shares insights on the FDA approval of CRISPR-based therapies, the rise of gene-edited crops in global markets, and the growing role of AI in designing precision edits. He also reflects on the progress of regulatory frameworks, the importance of public trust, and what scientists, companies, and governments must consider as CRISPR scales from the lab to the marketplace. | Rodophe Barrangou |
A CRISPR ViewBill Krueger, NC State Magazine | 6/30/2025“It almost mimics evolution, nature’s way of modifying the genome,” Wang says. Barrangou eventually told Wang that their discussions were no longer only about the science of trees. “There’s a business here,” he told Wang. • Read more » | 6/30/2025 | Bill Krueger | NC State Magazine | “It almost mimics evolution, nature’s way of modifying the genome,” Wang says. Barrangou eventually told Wang that their discussions were no longer only about the science of trees. “There’s a business here,” he told Wang. | Rodophe Barrangou, Jack Wang |
Study Develops Optimal Cover Crop Adoption ThresholdsMick Kulikowski, NC State News | 6/11/2025“The more you use cover crops, the fewer fertilizer inputs are needed,” Brown said. “That effect also increased over time. So, the longer you used cover crops, the more they were able to offset nitrogen fertilizer.” • Read more » | 6/11/2025 | Mick Kulikowski | NC State News | “The more you use cover crops, the fewer fertilizer inputs are needed,” Brown said. “That effect also increased over time. So, the longer you used cover crops, the more they were able to offset nitrogen fertilizer.” | Zack Brown, Roderick Rejesus |
NC State Science to Supplement: CodonRX Pioneers a New Era in Gut HealthStaff, NC State Office of Research Commercialization | 4/16/2025“Our labs at NC State spent years researching and developing the anti-inflammatory properties of CodonRX,” said Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou, a lead researcher on the project. “I’m thrilled to see CodonRX reach the market and hopeful that it will make a meaningful difference in people’s health.” • Read more » | 4/16/2025 | Staff | NC State Office of Research Commercialization | “Our labs at NC State spent years researching and developing the anti-inflammatory properties of CodonRX,” said Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou, a lead researcher on the project. “I’m thrilled to see CodonRX reach the market and hopeful that it will make a meaningful difference in people’s health.” | Rodophe Barrangou |
Xiang Wins New Innovator AwardSam Jones, NC State CALS News | 3/3/2025As a recipient of the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) New Innovator Award, Lirong Xiang is building robots to neutralize one of agriculture's biggest foes — weeds. • Read more » | 3/3/2025 | Sam Jones | NC State CALS News | As a recipient of the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) New Innovator Award, Lirong Xiang is building robots to neutralize one of agriculture's biggest foes — weeds. | Lirong Xiang |
| 3/1/2025 | Ida Emilie Steinmark | The Economist | In early 2005 Rodolphe Barrangou and Philippe Horvath were staring at some very odd bits of repeating genetic code on a computer screen in France. The sequences came from Streptococcus thermophilus, a bacterium that, like other bacteria, often skirmishes with viruses. | ||
2024-25 University Faculty Scholars NamedEmily Packard, NC State News | 2/18/2025This year’s class of University Faculty Scholars includes: Khara Grieger, assistant professor of applied ecology • Read more » | 2/18/2025 | Emily Packard | NC State News | This year’s class of University Faculty Scholars includes: Khara Grieger, assistant professor of applied ecology | Khara Grieger |
Podcast: Leveraging CRISPR to Drive Sustainability in the Forestry IndustryAdrian Percy, AgTech360 | 2/4/2025Dr. Jack Wang, associate professor at NC State and co-founder of Tree Co, Inc., shares how CRISPR technology and machine learning are revolutionizing forestry. Dr. Wang discusses how gene editing can address global challenges like climate change and sustainability. • Read more » | 2/4/2025 | Adrian Percy | AgTech360 | Dr. Jack Wang, associate professor at NC State and co-founder of Tree Co, Inc., shares how CRISPR technology and machine learning are revolutionizing forestry. Dr. Wang discusses how gene editing can address global challenges like climate change and sustainability. | Jack Wang |
Podcast: Should We Unleash GMO Mosquitoes?Entanglements Podcast, UnDark Magazine | 12/16/2024The problem with safety is that it’s never 100 percent. And almost any action we take in an ecosystem is going to come with some sort of level of risk. I think a better question is: Is it safe enough to warrant the potential benefits? • Read more » | 12/16/2024 | Entanglements Podcast | UnDark Magazine | The problem with safety is that it’s never 100 percent. And almost any action we take in an ecosystem is going to come with some sort of level of risk. I think a better question is: Is it safe enough to warrant the potential benefits? | Jennifer Kuzma |
Judge blocks rule that eased U.S. reviews of biotech cropsErik Stokstad, Science | 12/10/2024But Jennifer Kuzma of North Carolina State University, who studies the politics of biotech regulations, warns the case “might have the opposite effect of what the plaintiffs driving at.” • Read more » | 12/10/2024 | Erik Stokstad | Science | But Jennifer Kuzma of North Carolina State University, who studies the politics of biotech regulations, warns the case “might have the opposite effect of what the plaintiffs driving at.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Future proofing photosynthesisCarrie Arnold, C&EN | 11/18/2024“People make their decisions based on benefits and risks, sure, but they also base them on their worldviews and trust. Instead of saying, How we can get the public’s trust?, the industry should be saying, How can we become trustworthy?” Kuzma says. • Read more » | 11/18/2024 | Carrie Arnold | C&EN | “People make their decisions based on benefits and risks, sure, but they also base them on their worldviews and trust. Instead of saying, How we can get the public’s trust?, the industry should be saying, How can we become trustworthy?” Kuzma says. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Future-proofing Food and Agriculture: NC State’s Genome Editing CenterD’Lyn Ford, NC State CALS News | 11/6/2024How will genome editing benefit food and agriculture? We asked CRISPR expert and NC State Professor Rodolphe Barrangou to explain. • Read more » | 11/6/2024 | D’Lyn Ford | NC State CALS News | How will genome editing benefit food and agriculture? We asked CRISPR expert and NC State Professor Rodolphe Barrangou to explain. | Rodolphe Barrangou |
Finding Could Help Turn Trees Into Affordable, Greener Industrial ChemicalsMick Kulikowski, NC State CALS News | 10/18/2024Specific molecular property of lignin in trees determines difficulty of using microbial fermentation to turn trees and other plants into industrial chemicals. • Read more » | 10/18/2024 | Mick Kulikowski | NC State CALS News | Specific molecular property of lignin in trees determines difficulty of using microbial fermentation to turn trees and other plants into industrial chemicals. | Jack Wang, Robert Kelly |
The CRISPR Revolution: Chancellor Woodson Talks Science and Innovation with Professor Rodolphe BarrangouRed Chair Chats Podcast, NC State News | 7/10/2024What sounded like science fiction just 10 years ago has become reality, thanks to CRISPR. Professor Rodolphe Barrangou joins Chancellor Woodson to discuss this game-changing technology. • Read more » | 7/10/2024 | Red Chair Chats Podcast | NC State News | What sounded like science fiction just 10 years ago has become reality, thanks to CRISPR. Professor Rodolphe Barrangou joins Chancellor Woodson to discuss this game-changing technology. | Rodolphe Barrangou |
Gene-Edited Salad Greens Are Coming to US Stores This FallEmily Mullin, Wired | 5/31/2024Ultimately, taste and affordability may be more important to consumers than the technology used to produce the greens, says Khara Grieger, assistant professor of environmental health and risk assessment at North Carolina State University...“Bayer is trying to meet consumer desires to eat healthier foods,” Grieger says. “But consumers are going to want to purchase a product that is affordable.” • Read more » | 5/31/2024 | Emily Mullin | Wired | Ultimately, taste and affordability may be more important to consumers than the technology used to produce the greens, says Khara Grieger, assistant professor of environmental health and risk assessment at North Carolina State University...“Bayer is trying to meet consumer desires to eat healthier foods,” Grieger says. “But consumers are going to want to purchase a product that is affordable.” | Khara Grieger |
WTF Is With the Pink Pineapples at the Grocery Store?!Emily Mullin, Wired | 5/27/2024Chris Cummings, a senior research fellow at North Carolina State University’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center, says that lack of information is probably purposeful. “There is some distinct marketing that’s going on with this particular product,” he says. • Read more » | 5/27/2024 | Emily Mullin | Wired | Chris Cummings, a senior research fellow at North Carolina State University’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center, says that lack of information is probably purposeful. “There is some distinct marketing that’s going on with this particular product,” he says. | Christopher Cummings |
Brushing with Bacteria: The Debate Over a GMO Tooth MicrobeChristina Szalinski, Undark Magazine | 4/18/2024“Without human trials, you really can’t determine whether it’s safe or efficacious,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. • Read more » | 4/18/2024 | Christina Szalinski | Undark Magazine | “Without human trials, you really can’t determine whether it’s safe or efficacious,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Secret to stellar corn yields? Right hybrid, planted on right dayJohn Hart, Farm Progress | 3/6/2024For North Carolina corn farmers seeking secrets to achieve maximum yields in 2024, Ron Heiniger is offering just one hint this year: choose the right hybrid and plant it on the right day. • Read more » | 3/6/2024 | John Hart | Farm Progress | For North Carolina corn farmers seeking secrets to achieve maximum yields in 2024, Ron Heiniger is offering just one hint this year: choose the right hybrid and plant it on the right day. | Ron Heiniger |
Poised to be first widely consumed gene-edited animals, virus-resistant pigs trot toward marketJon Cohen, Science | 3/1/2024Rodolphe Barrangou, a food scientist at NC State University who is also editor-in-chief of The CRISPR Journal but not involved with the work, says the study is the “end of the beginning” of bringing gene-edited livestock to the wide market because so many farmers will likely want PRRS-resistant pigs. “It’s not just a nice study in a nice model,” says Barrangou, who did pioneering CRISPR work himself. “It’s actually doing it in the real world.” • Read more » | 3/1/2024 | Jon Cohen | Science | Rodolphe Barrangou, a food scientist at NC State University who is also editor-in-chief of The CRISPR Journal but not involved with the work, says the study is the “end of the beginning” of bringing gene-edited livestock to the wide market because so many farmers will likely want PRRS-resistant pigs. “It’s not just a nice study in a nice model,” says Barrangou, who did pioneering CRISPR work himself. “It’s actually doing it in the real world.” | Rodolphe Barrangou |
Genetics and Genomics Academy offers unique courses to studentsSavannah Woodman, The Technician | 2/21/2024Fred Gould, executive director of the academy, said the academy was created to be an interdisciplinary center that could bring the campus together. • Read more » | 2/21/2024 | Savannah Woodman | The Technician | Fred Gould, executive director of the academy, said the academy was created to be an interdisciplinary center that could bring the campus together. | Fred Gould |
From Mentee to MentorKristen Fontana, Global One Health Academy | 2/19/2024Last week, the Global One Health Academy along with the Genetics & Genomics Academy and the Genetic Engineering & Society Center, cohosted a workshop on Mentoring Skills for Graduate Students. This event is part of a series of monthly Interdisciplinary Professional Development Workshops to help graduate students prepare for a career in interdisciplinary research. • Read more » | 2/19/2024 | Kristen Fontana | Global One Health Academy | Last week, the Global One Health Academy along with the Genetics & Genomics Academy and the Genetic Engineering & Society Center, cohosted a workshop on Mentoring Skills for Graduate Students. This event is part of a series of monthly Interdisciplinary Professional Development Workshops to help graduate students prepare for a career in interdisciplinary research. | |
Preventing the Next Plant PlagueD’Lyn Ford, NC State CALS News | 2/16/2024My book is going to be a crime scene investigation study. Who were the victims, the suspects and the many detectives that cracked the potato blight case? • Read more » | 2/16/2024 | D’Lyn Ford | NC State CALS News | My book is going to be a crime scene investigation study. Who were the victims, the suspects and the many detectives that cracked the potato blight case? | Jean Ristaino, Amanda Mainello-Land |
NC State Named a Fulbright Top Producing InstitutionDee Shore, NC State CALS News | 2/14/2024NC State has been recognized as one of the universities with the highest number of students, faculty and administrators selected for both the U.S. Fulbright Student and Scholar Programs, including three GES faculty members and an AgBioFEWS Fellow. • Read more » | 2/14/2024 | Dee Shore | NC State CALS News | NC State has been recognized as one of the universities with the highest number of students, faculty and administrators selected for both the U.S. Fulbright Student and Scholar Programs, including three GES faculty members and an AgBioFEWS Fellow. | Jason Delborne, Jabeen Ahmad, Jean Ristaino, Nora Haenn |
Envisioning a More Equitable Food SystemDee Shore, NC State CALS News | 2/13/2024Doctoral candidate and AgBioFEWS Fellow Christopher Gillespie seeks a stronger, more racially equitable food system, and at NC State, he’s taking steps to achieve that. • Read more » | 2/13/2024 | Dee Shore | NC State CALS News | Doctoral candidate and AgBioFEWS Fellow Christopher Gillespie seeks a stronger, more racially equitable food system, and at NC State, he’s taking steps to achieve that. | Christopher Gillespie |
Glow-In-the-Dark Flowers Are Coming This Spring: Meet the Firefly PetuniaSharon Greenthal, Better Homes & Gardens | 2/12/2024Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, is surprised that more studies haven't come out about the environmental risk of luminescent petunias. Possible disruption to plant and insect behavior because of the unnatural light is unclear. “It depends on how widely these are grown and whether they were to establish more wildly,” she told Wired. • Read more » | 2/12/2024 | Sharon Greenthal | Better Homes & Gardens | Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, is surprised that more studies haven't come out about the environmental risk of luminescent petunias. Possible disruption to plant and insect behavior because of the unnatural light is unclear. “It depends on how widely these are grown and whether they were to establish more wildly,” she told Wired. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Starting StrongDee Shore, NC State CALS News | 2/7/2024For example, Eli Hornstein, who holds a Ph.D. from NC State in plant metabolic engineering, has started Elysia Creative Biology to help slow climate change by producing bioengineered crops that can be turned into feed that reduces the emission of methane, a greenhouse gas, from cows. • Read more » | 2/7/2024 | Dee Shore | NC State CALS News | For example, Eli Hornstein, who holds a Ph.D. from NC State in plant metabolic engineering, has started Elysia Creative Biology to help slow climate change by producing bioengineered crops that can be turned into feed that reduces the emission of methane, a greenhouse gas, from cows. | Eli Hornstein |
A Matter Of Trust: Helping The Bioeconomy Reach Its Full Potential With Translational GovernanceChristopher Gillespie, Federation of American Scientists | 2/1/2024Recent failures of the federal regulatory system for biotechnology threaten public trust, and recent regulations have been criticized for their lack of transparency. As a result, cross-sector efforts aim not just to reimagine the bioeconomy but to create a coordinated regulatory system for it. • Read more » | 2/1/2024 | Christopher Gillespie | Federation of American Scientists | Recent failures of the federal regulatory system for biotechnology threaten public trust, and recent regulations have been criticized for their lack of transparency. As a result, cross-sector efforts aim not just to reimagine the bioeconomy but to create a coordinated regulatory system for it. | Christopher Gillespie |
A disease wiped out a lot of Pennsylvania potatoes in 2016. Now research has found out howAlan Yu, WHYY–PBS | 1/29/2024After the 2016 outbreak, Penn State researchers [including AgBioFEWS Fellow Amanda Mainello] collected samples from 26 potato fields in Pennsylvania to study the disease. They recently published their findings, where they managed to identify the specific types of bacteria responsible, some of which had not been identified in Pennsylvania before. • Read more » | 1/29/2024 | Alan Yu | WHYY–PBS | After the 2016 outbreak, Penn State researchers [including AgBioFEWS Fellow Amanda Mainello] collected samples from 26 potato fields in Pennsylvania to study the disease. They recently published their findings, where they managed to identify the specific types of bacteria responsible, some of which had not been identified in Pennsylvania before. | Amanda Mainello |
Are GMOs Safe? Breaking Down the Science of Science-ified FoodsJamie Ducharme, Time | 1/5/2024Fred Gould, a professor of agriculture at NC State who chaired a 2016 NASEM report on genetically engineered crops, often leads educational sessions on GMOs. He likes to show a photograph of a supermarket produce section and ask how many of the vegetables in the picture are genetically modified. He gets lots of guesses as high as 90%—but the right answer is zero. • Read more » | 1/5/2024 | Jamie Ducharme | Time | Fred Gould, a professor of agriculture at NC State who chaired a 2016 NASEM report on genetically engineered crops, often leads educational sessions on GMOs. He likes to show a photograph of a supermarket produce section and ask how many of the vegetables in the picture are genetically modified. He gets lots of guesses as high as 90%—but the right answer is zero. | Fred Gould |
Sweet Potatoes' Flavor is More Complex Than You ThinkVideo, PBS Terra | 11/15/2023In this episode of Hungry Planet, North Carolina State University PhD student Modesta Abugu tells Niba about her research to make sweet potatoes more delicious by identifying the aromatic molecules that give rise to their complex flavor. • Read more » | 11/15/2023 | Video | PBS Terra | In this episode of Hungry Planet, North Carolina State University PhD student Modesta Abugu tells Niba about her research to make sweet potatoes more delicious by identifying the aromatic molecules that give rise to their complex flavor. | Modesta Abugu |
Moving biologicals beyond ‘snake oil’John Hart, Southeast Farm Press | 10/27/2023Katie Barnhill is a senior research scholar with the GES Center at NC State. She has done extensive interviews with farmers on the use of microbiological crop production inoculants, and explained farmers remain hesitant, due to continued skepticism on the products’ efficacy. • Read more » | 10/27/2023 | John Hart | Southeast Farm Press | Katie Barnhill is a senior research scholar with the GES Center at NC State. She has done extensive interviews with farmers on the use of microbiological crop production inoculants, and explained farmers remain hesitant, due to continued skepticism on the products’ efficacy. | Katie Barnhill |
National Academy of Sciences Member Directory: Fred GouldBiosketch, NASEM | 9/27/2023Fred Gould, North Carolina State UniversityPrimary Section: 61, Animal, Nutritional, and Applied Microbial Sciences | 9/27/2023 | Biosketch | NASEM | Fred Gould, North Carolina State UniversityPrimary Section: 61, Animal, Nutritional, and Applied Microbial Sciences Secondary Section: 27, Evolutionary Biology Membership Type: Member (elected 2011) | Fred Gould |
Here Come the Glow-in-the-Dark HouseplantsEmily Mullin, Wired | 9/19/2023Jennifer Kuzma, codirector of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, says she’s concerned that the agency didn’t conduct a more formal assessment of the plant’s potential environmental and ecological risks. Even though bioluminescence occurs naturally, glowing plants could affect the behavior of insects and animals that aren’t accustomed to it. “It depends on how widely these are grown and whether they were to establish more wildly,” she says. • Read more » | 9/19/2023 | Emily Mullin | Wired | Jennifer Kuzma, codirector of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, says she’s concerned that the agency didn’t conduct a more formal assessment of the plant’s potential environmental and ecological risks. Even though bioluminescence occurs naturally, glowing plants could affect the behavior of insects and animals that aren’t accustomed to it. “It depends on how widely these are grown and whether they were to establish more wildly,” she says. | Jennifer Kuzma |
The American chestnut tree is coming back. Who is it for?Maya L. Kapoor, Grist | 9/13/2023According to Jason Delborne, who studies biotechnology and environmental policy at North Carolina State University, “There are people who are environmentalists at their core, but sick of losing, and interested in the promise of technology to solve the ecological and environmental problems we are facing.” • Read more » | 9/13/2023 | Maya L. Kapoor | Grist | According to Jason Delborne, who studies biotechnology and environmental policy at North Carolina State University, “There are people who are environmentalists at their core, but sick of losing, and interested in the promise of technology to solve the ecological and environmental problems we are facing.” | Jason Delborne Katie Barnhill |
Policy and Transparency: Increasing Public Trust in US Biotechnology RegulationsZabrina J. Bugnosen, ISAAA Blog | 8/16/2023With the release of Executive Order 14801, the North Carolina State University experts [AgBioFEWS Fellows] see a window of opportunity to enhance visibility and encourage trust in the regulatory system. • Read more » | 8/16/2023 | Zabrina J. Bugnosen | ISAAA Blog | With the release of Executive Order 14801, the North Carolina State University experts [AgBioFEWS Fellows] see a window of opportunity to enhance visibility and encourage trust in the regulatory system. | AgBioFEWS Fellows |
Faculty Clusters Fuel a Culture of Excellence at NC StateSam Gunnells , NC State News | 7/12/2023The Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) cluster grew into the GES Center and then — to fill the need for greater genetics literacy throughout the university — the Genetics and Genomics Academy was created. • Read more » | 7/12/2023 | Sam Gunnells | NC State News | The Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) cluster grew into the GES Center and then — to fill the need for greater genetics literacy throughout the university — the Genetics and Genomics Academy was created. | Jennifer Kuzma, Fred Gould |
Is Our Phosphorus Use Sustainable? Most Stakeholders Doubt ItMatt Shipman, NC State News | 7/5/2023“If we want to develop systems and policies that ensure long-term sustainability of phosphorus resources, we have to understand the needs, wants and concerns of relevant stakeholders,” Grieger says • Read more » | 7/5/2023 | Matt Shipman | NC State News | “If we want to develop systems and policies that ensure long-term sustainability of phosphorus resources, we have to understand the needs, wants and concerns of relevant stakeholders,” Grieger says | Khara Grieger |
First CRISPR-edited salad hits the U.S. marketHeather Frank, WORLD | 6/29/2023Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, doesn’t suspect any safety issues with Pairwise’s mustard greens, but she echoed Hanson’s call for more transparency. • Read more » | 6/29/2023 | Heather Frank | WORLD | Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, doesn’t suspect any safety issues with Pairwise’s mustard greens, but she echoed Hanson’s call for more transparency. | Jennifer Kuzma |
EPA publishes final rule on gene-edited plantsStaff, Oils and Fats International | 6/15/2023According to NC State’s Kuzma, the EPA had struck a reasonable balance. “We need some sort of outside check to make sure that the industry is thinking about risks to non-target organisms and humans when it comes to pesticidal compounds.” • Read more » | 6/15/2023 | Staff | Oils and Fats International | According to NC State’s Kuzma, the EPA had struck a reasonable balance. “We need some sort of outside check to make sure that the industry is thinking about risks to non-target organisms and humans when it comes to pesticidal compounds.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
EPA decision to tighten oversight of gene-edited crops draws mixed responseErik Stokstad, Science | 6/2/2023The move clarifies the regulatory requirements for industry and provides valuable oversight, says Jennifer Kuzma of North Carolina State University, an expert on biotechnology and public policy. • Read more » | 6/2/2023 | Erik Stokstad | Science | The move clarifies the regulatory requirements for industry and provides valuable oversight, says Jennifer Kuzma of North Carolina State University, an expert on biotechnology and public policy. | Jennifer Kuzma |
The Ever-Tenuous Success of Plants Engineered To Kill Insect FoesDan Charles, Science—The Wire | 5/29/2023Scientists understood that the strategy could fail. In 1998, entomologist Fred Gould, at North Carolina State University, laid out some of its weaknesses in the Annual Review of Entomology. • Read more » | 5/29/2023 | Dan Charles | Science—The Wire | Scientists understood that the strategy could fail. In 1998, entomologist Fred Gould, at North Carolina State University, laid out some of its weaknesses in the Annual Review of Entomology. | Fred Gould |
The First Crispr-Edited Salad Is HereEmily Mullin, Wired | 5/16/2023"The direct-to-consumer benefit has not manifested in many technological food products in the past 30 years," says Cummings. "If gene-edited foods are really going to take off, they need to provide a clear and direct benefit to people that helps them financially or nutritionally." • Read more » | 5/16/2023 | Emily Mullin | Wired | "The direct-to-consumer benefit has not manifested in many technological food products in the past 30 years," says Cummings. "If gene-edited foods are really going to take off, they need to provide a clear and direct benefit to people that helps them financially or nutritionally." | Christopher Cummings |
I Don’t Make the Rules, I Comment on ThemChristopher Gillespie, The Equation (Union of Concerned Scientists) | 5/12/2023It is one thing for Congress to pass a law. It is entirely different thing for a federal agency to make a rule (in other words, regulations) in accordance with that law. • Read more » | 5/12/2023 | Christopher Gillespie | The Equation (Union of Concerned Scientists) | It is one thing for Congress to pass a law. It is entirely different thing for a federal agency to make a rule (in other words, regulations) in accordance with that law. | Christopher Gillespie |
Nanomaterials Are In Our Food – Are They Safe? | An Expert ExplainsPodcast, Findig Genius | 5/8/2023How are nanomaterials being used around us – and what are the potential risks? Khara D. Grieger, an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Environmental Health and Risk Assessment at NC State, joins us to discuss this intriguing topic. With a Ph.D. in environmental engineering, Khara is interested in unpacking the uses and risks of nanotechnology in agriculture and food production. Drawing from her extensive knowledge of risk assessment, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, her research is truly ahead of its time… • Read more » | 5/8/2023 | Podcast | Findig Genius | How are nanomaterials being used around us – and what are the potential risks? Khara D. Grieger, an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Environmental Health and Risk Assessment at NC State, joins us to discuss this intriguing topic. With a Ph.D. in environmental engineering, Khara is interested in unpacking the uses and risks of nanotechnology in agriculture and food production. Drawing from her extensive knowledge of risk assessment, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, her research is truly ahead of its time… | Khara Grieger |
NC State Partner Institutes Bolster U.S. Manufacturing IndustryDeborah Strange, NC State News | 5/2/2023The Biotechnology Program (BIT) studies the molecular side of biotechnology, and the Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES) examines societal implications of genetic engineering used in biomanufacturing. Together, these units offer a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach to • Read more » | 5/2/2023 | Deborah Strange | NC State News | The Biotechnology Program (BIT) studies the molecular side of biotechnology, and the Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES) examines societal implications of genetic engineering used in biomanufacturing. Together, these units offer a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach to | Jason Delborne, Katie Barnhill |
The growth of GM foodRuth Alexander, The Food Chain Podcast, BBC World Service | 4/27/2023Professor Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, talks about how labelling can help give consumers choice over whether they eat GM. • Read more » | 4/27/2023 | Ruth Alexander, The Food Chain Podcast | BBC World Service | Professor Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, talks about how labelling can help give consumers choice over whether they eat GM. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Messing with Mother NatureEcoSense for Living Podcast, PBS | 4/24/2023In Galveston, Texas, coyotes dubbed "ghost wolves" carry high amounts of red wolf DNA that may help the population survive; groups consider whether they'll welcome American Chestnut trees engineered with a wheat gene to resist blight; mosquitoes modified to lower disease levels have met with resistance and concern in the Florida Keys. A conversation with Jason Delborne and Fred Gould of the GES Center at NC State University. • Read more » | 4/24/2023 | EcoSense for Living Podcast | PBS | In Galveston, Texas, coyotes dubbed "ghost wolves" carry high amounts of red wolf DNA that may help the population survive; groups consider whether they'll welcome American Chestnut trees engineered with a wheat gene to resist blight; mosquitoes modified to lower disease levels have met with resistance and concern in the Florida Keys. A conversation with Jason Delborne and Fred Gould of the GES Center at NC State University. | Jason Delborne, Fred Gould |
[Seminar Blog] What Influences Your Science? A Case Study On Cultural, Political, and Scientific EntanglementAmanda Rae Brucchieri and Robert Joseph Salerno , University of Maryland, Department of Entomology | 4/14/2023Dr. Fred Gould, a distinguished professor of Entomology at North Carolina State University whose relationship with the University of Maryland extends back over 30 years, addressed a full hall about this shadowed intersection of science and society. In his talk, Gould dove into the 16-year ban of Mendelian genetics in the Soviet Union and the history that resulted in the ban’s conception. • Read more » | 4/14/2023 | Amanda Rae Brucchieri and Robert Joseph Salerno | University of Maryland, Department of Entomology | Dr. Fred Gould, a distinguished professor of Entomology at North Carolina State University whose relationship with the University of Maryland extends back over 30 years, addressed a full hall about this shadowed intersection of science and society. In his talk, Gould dove into the 16-year ban of Mendelian genetics in the Soviet Union and the history that resulted in the ban’s conception. | Fred Gould |
NC State Researchers Assemble Pathogen ‘Tree of Life’Mick Kulikowski, NC State News | 4/3/2023“About 150 new Phytophthora species have been identified since 2000,” says NC State Ph.D. student Allison Coomber, who developed the tool with the team. “This is an unusually large number of plant pathogen species,” Ristaino said. “Many Phytophthora species have broad host ranges, so they can ‘move’ over wider areas.” • Read more » | 4/3/2023 | Mick Kulikowski | NC State News | “About 150 new Phytophthora species have been identified since 2000,” says NC State Ph.D. student Allison Coomber, who developed the tool with the team. “This is an unusually large number of plant pathogen species,” Ristaino said. “Many Phytophthora species have broad host ranges, so they can ‘move’ over wider areas.” | Jean Ristaino, Allison Coomber |
Should we bring back the woolly mammoth? SXSW experts talk ethics behind de-extinctionKara Carlson, Austin American-Statesman | 3/16/2023The ethics of bringing back extinct animals has been a hot topic among scientists and people following de-exinction efforts. Delborne, a social scientist, said it's important to have conversations about who decides what gets brought back and why, and added there is no one right answer. • Read more » | 3/16/2023 | Kara Carlson | Austin American-Statesman | The ethics of bringing back extinct animals has been a hot topic among scientists and people following de-exinction efforts. Delborne, a social scientist, said it's important to have conversations about who decides what gets brought back and why, and added there is no one right answer. | Jason Delborne |
Can we keep CRISPR responsible? The Future of CRISPR with Jennifer KuzmaPodcast + Article, FutureBites with Dr. Bruce McCabe | 2/19/2023Designer babies, agricultural mishaps, extinction via gene drive – all possible now that CRISPR has placed into our hands the awesome power to “edit life” in all its forms. So, how to keep the good while preventing the bad? How to safeguard our future? Is that even possible? I asked Jennifer Kuzma, global expert on biotech responsibility, to shed light on one of the most important governance challenges of our time: how to put guardrails around CRISPR. • Read more » | 2/19/2023 | Podcast + Article | FutureBites with Dr. Bruce McCabe | Designer babies, agricultural mishaps, extinction via gene drive – all possible now that CRISPR has placed into our hands the awesome power to “edit life” in all its forms. So, how to keep the good while preventing the bad? How to safeguard our future? Is that even possible? I asked Jennifer Kuzma, global expert on biotech responsibility, to shed light on one of the most important governance challenges of our time: how to put guardrails around CRISPR. | Jennifer Kuzma |
How CRISPR could help save crops from devastation caused by pestsEmma Foehringer Merchant, MIT Technology Review | 2/2/2023“Chemicals can only travel so far before they degrade in the environment,” says Jason Delborne, a professor of science, policy, and society at North Carolina State University. “If you introduce a gene-edited organism that can move through the environment, you have the potential to change or transform environments across a huge spatial and temporal scale.” • Read more » | 2/2/2023 | Emma Foehringer Merchant | MIT Technology Review | “Chemicals can only travel so far before they degrade in the environment,” says Jason Delborne, a professor of science, policy, and society at North Carolina State University. “If you introduce a gene-edited organism that can move through the environment, you have the potential to change or transform environments across a huge spatial and temporal scale.” | Jason Delborne |
Sweet-APPS Yielding Sweet SuccessEmma Macek, NC State CALS Magazine | 11/17/2022“By engaging stakeholders within the early stages of technology development, stakeholder needs can be more easily met, food waste can be reduced, and social and environmental sustainability within the industry can be improved.” Khara Grieger • Read more » | 11/17/2022 | Emma Macek | NC State CALS Magazine | “By engaging stakeholders within the early stages of technology development, stakeholder needs can be more easily met, food waste can be reduced, and social and environmental sustainability within the industry can be improved.” Khara Grieger | Khara Grieger, Craig Yencho, Daniela Jones, Cranos Williams |
Modesta Abugu: Improving Sweetpotato Flavor for Nutrition Security, NC State CALS News | 10/7/2022Modesta Abugu came to North Carolina State University from a smallholder farming community in Enugu State, located in southeastern Nigeria, where she grew up helping her mother on a two-acre farm planting, weeding and harvesting cassava, corn and cowpeas. • Read more » | 10/7/2022 | NC State CALS News | Modesta Abugu came to North Carolina State University from a smallholder farming community in Enugu State, located in southeastern Nigeria, where she grew up helping her mother on a two-acre farm planting, weeding and harvesting cassava, corn and cowpeas. | Modesta Abugu | |
Archea, Microbial Superheroes?Jabeen Ahmad, FFAR | 9/27/2022Food insecurity is a concern now and in the future. Globally, the United Nations estimates that about 690 million people are food insecure. By the year 2050, the world population is expected to reach nine billion people, requiring food supplies to double. • Read more » | 9/27/2022 | Jabeen Ahmad | FFAR | Food insecurity is a concern now and in the future. Globally, the United Nations estimates that about 690 million people are food insecure. By the year 2050, the world population is expected to reach nine billion people, requiring food supplies to double. | Jabeen Ahmad |
World Food Day: Revisiting the GMO conversationJoseph Opoku Gakpo, My Joy Online | 10/17/2022As we mark the day, I want to talk about what is probably the most significant food security-related development Ghana has witnessed since we celebrated the last World Food Day in October 2021. It has to do with genetically modified (GM) foods which are popularly known as GMOs. • Read more » | 10/17/2022 | Joseph Opoku Gakpo | My Joy Online | As we mark the day, I want to talk about what is probably the most significant food security-related development Ghana has witnessed since we celebrated the last World Food Day in October 2021. It has to do with genetically modified (GM) foods which are popularly known as GMOs. | Joseph Opoku Gakpo |
Opinion: Time to reopen the GE in agriculture debateJacqueline Rowarth, The Country (New Zealand) | 9/19/2022"Much effort has been expended globally over the past four decades to craft and update country-specific and multinational safety regulations that can be applied to crops developed by genetic engineering processes while exempting conventionally bred crops. This differentiation made some sense in the 1980s, but in light of technological advances, it is no longer scientifically defensible." • Read more » | 9/19/2022 | Jacqueline Rowarth | The Country (New Zealand) | "Much effort has been expended globally over the past four decades to craft and update country-specific and multinational safety regulations that can be applied to crops developed by genetic engineering processes while exempting conventionally bred crops. This differentiation made some sense in the 1980s, but in light of technological advances, it is no longer scientifically defensible." | Fred Gould |
A GMO Purple Tomato Is Coming to Grocery Aisles. Will the US Bite?Emily Mullin, WIRED | 9/13/2022Fred Gould, codirector of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center of North Carolina State University, says it will be up to consumers to decide just how valuable a purple tomato is. After all, they can get anthocyanins from other sources—berries, eggplant, and cabbage, for instance. • Read more » | 9/13/2022 | Emily Mullin | WIRED | Fred Gould, codirector of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center of North Carolina State University, says it will be up to consumers to decide just how valuable a purple tomato is. After all, they can get anthocyanins from other sources—berries, eggplant, and cabbage, for instance. | Fred Gould |
NSF announces 4 new Engineering Research Centers focused on agriculture, health, manufacturing and smart citiesStaff, NSF News | 8/10/2022NSF Engineering Research Center for Precision Microbiome Engineering will create microbiome technologies that address challenges at the interface of human health and the built environment, promoting the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms and preventing colonization by infectious agents. • Read more » | 8/10/2022 | Staff | NSF News | NSF Engineering Research Center for Precision Microbiome Engineering will create microbiome technologies that address challenges at the interface of human health and the built environment, promoting the proliferation of beneficial microorganisms and preventing colonization by infectious agents. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Duke-led Center Seeks to Examine and Engineer the Microbial Communities of Indoor SpacesKen Kingery, Duke University News | 8/10/2022Joining Gunsch on the PreMiEr leadership team are four distinguished faculty from neighboring North Carolina institutions: Jennifer Kuzma, the Goodnight-NCGSK Foundation Distinguished Professor in the School of Public and International Affairs and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State • Read more » | 8/10/2022 | Ken Kingery | Duke University News | Joining Gunsch on the PreMiEr leadership team are four distinguished faculty from neighboring North Carolina institutions: Jennifer Kuzma, the Goodnight-NCGSK Foundation Distinguished Professor in the School of Public and International Affairs and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State | Jennifer Kuzma |
NC State Brings Expertise, Interdisciplinarity to Galapagos ConsortiumDeborah Strange, NC State News | 7/29/2022Saah coordinates programs that research and develop new technologies that prevent species extinction. NC State researchers, such as Fred Gould, have examined genetic technologies to remove invasive species from the Galapagos. • Read more » | 7/29/2022 | Deborah Strange | NC State News | Saah coordinates programs that research and develop new technologies that prevent species extinction. NC State researchers, such as Fred Gould, have examined genetic technologies to remove invasive species from the Galapagos. | Fred Gould, Royden Saah |
NC State University Awarded BioMADE Funding to Advance U.S. Bioindustrial Manufacturing by Educating Future WorkersMatt Simpson, NC State News | 3/2/2022Delborne says that this is a “fantastic opportunity for the GES Center to contribute to an educational mission even as it prepares to work closely with the recently announced Genetics and Genomics Academy at NC State.” • Read more » | 3/2/2022 | Matt Simpson | NC State News | Delborne says that this is a “fantastic opportunity for the GES Center to contribute to an educational mission even as it prepares to work closely with the recently announced Genetics and Genomics Academy at NC State.” | Jason Delborne, Katie Barnhill |
WSSA Announces 2022 Awards for Outstanding Achievements in Weed Science, Weed Science Society of America | 2/23/2022OUTSTANDING TEACHER AWARD: Ramon Leon, Ph.D., North Carolina State University • Read more » | 2/23/2022 | Weed Science Society of America | OUTSTANDING TEACHER AWARD: Ramon Leon, Ph.D., North Carolina State University | Ramon Leon | |
Nigerian companies ramp up production to meet high demand for GMO cowpea seedsJoseph Opoku Gakpo, Alliance for Science | 2/22/2022Nigeria’s private local seed companies are expanding production of genetically modified (GM) cowpea seeds to supply farmers eager to grow the pest-resistant crop. • Read more » | 2/22/2022 | Joseph Opoku Gakpo | Alliance for Science | Nigeria’s private local seed companies are expanding production of genetically modified (GM) cowpea seeds to supply farmers eager to grow the pest-resistant crop. | Joseph Opoku Gakpo |
NC State receives USDA/NIFA grant to evaluate societal impacts and foster sustainability of GE and nanotech in agriculturePatti Mulligan, GES Center | 2/10/2022Khara Grieger, together with GES Co-director Jennifer Kuzma, will lead a $650,000 project that will support the responsible development of novel agrifood technologies to contribute to more sustainable food and ag systems. • Read more » | 2/10/2022 | Patti Mulligan | GES Center | Khara Grieger, together with GES Co-director Jennifer Kuzma, will lead a $650,000 project that will support the responsible development of novel agrifood technologies to contribute to more sustainable food and ag systems. | Khara Grieger, Jennifer Kuzma |
What is stopping gene-edited food from saving our planet?Deena Theresa, Interesting Engineering | 2/10/2022Adding to Barrangou's sentiment, Jennifer Kuzma, the Goodnight-NC GSK Foundation Distinguished Professor in the Social Sciences and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State, tells IE that a gene-edited crop that works in the lab or greenhouse needn't work in the field. "Another challenge is that farmers may not want to buy that particular gene-edited seed if it may not deliver enough benefits directly to them. Crops to mitigate climate change may not fit into their economic models," she says. • Read more » | 2/10/2022 | Deena Theresa | Interesting Engineering | Adding to Barrangou's sentiment, Jennifer Kuzma, the Goodnight-NC GSK Foundation Distinguished Professor in the Social Sciences and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State, tells IE that a gene-edited crop that works in the lab or greenhouse needn't work in the field. "Another challenge is that farmers may not want to buy that particular gene-edited seed if it may not deliver enough benefits directly to them. Crops to mitigate climate change may not fit into their economic models," she says. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Anti-GMO stances ‘insult smallholder farmers’ in Africa and AsiaJoseph Opoku Gakpo, Alliance for Science | 2/3/2022Nassib Mugwanya, a former agricultural extension agent in Uganda who is now a doctoral candidate in agriculture and extension education at North Carolina State University, agreed. “GM crops in Uganda are rooted in the contextual realities of the challenges facing agriculture and smallholder farmers,” he observed. “And if anything, I think GM crops complement indigenous knowledge and agricultural solutions. They help smallholder farmers — especially women — spend less time in the fields as they grow more nutritious crops for the households and communities.” • Read more » | 2/3/2022 | Joseph Opoku Gakpo | Alliance for Science | Nassib Mugwanya, a former agricultural extension agent in Uganda who is now a doctoral candidate in agriculture and extension education at North Carolina State University, agreed. “GM crops in Uganda are rooted in the contextual realities of the challenges facing agriculture and smallholder farmers,” he observed. “And if anything, I think GM crops complement indigenous knowledge and agricultural solutions. They help smallholder farmers — especially women — spend less time in the fields as they grow more nutritious crops for the households and communities.” | Joseph Opoku Gakpo, Nassib Mugwanya |
Two Professors Named 2021 AAAS FellowsAndrew Moore, NC State CNR News | 1/26/2022“As an interdisciplinary scholar who doesn’t fit neatly into traditional academic boxes, I’m really honored to have my contributions recognized by the premier science organization in the United States,” Delborne said. • Read more » | 1/26/2022 | Andrew Moore | NC State CNR News | “As an interdisciplinary scholar who doesn’t fit neatly into traditional academic boxes, I’m really honored to have my contributions recognized by the premier science organization in the United States,” Delborne said. | Jason Delborne |
How CRISPR is solving problems through DNA editingAbbey Slattery, WRAL.com | 1/25/2022"The RTP is one of the CRISPR hubs in the world, and we’ve had multiple CRISPR related startup companies. We are not just impacting science, technology and academia, but also making a real impact in the business world," said Barrangou. • Read more » | 1/25/2022 | Abbey Slattery | WRAL.com | "The RTP is one of the CRISPR hubs in the world, and we’ve had multiple CRISPR related startup companies. We are not just impacting science, technology and academia, but also making a real impact in the business world," said Barrangou. | Rodolphe Barrangou, Jack Wang |
Excelling through mentorship: An interview with Dr. Martha Burford ReiskindModesta Abugu, Women in Genomics | 1/25/2022Dr. Martha Burford Reiskind is one of the female scientists who understands the difference mentorship makes for graduate students’ success and is working to change the system of academic mentorship in graduate school. • Read more » | 1/25/2022 | Modesta Abugu | Women in Genomics | Dr. Martha Burford Reiskind is one of the female scientists who understands the difference mentorship makes for graduate students’ success and is working to change the system of academic mentorship in graduate school. | Modesta Abugu, Martha Burford Reiskind |
Fact Check: Genetic Engineers Have NOT Created Food That Makes Black People InfertileMarlo Lee, Lead Stories | 1/21/2022“The idea that RNA could be targeted specifically at Black people is even more unlikely,” (GES Co-director) Gould said…”there are no genetic distinctions between Black and white people. If the RNA could harm Black people, it would harm white people too.” • Read more » | 1/21/2022 | Marlo Lee | Lead Stories | “The idea that RNA could be targeted specifically at Black people is even more unlikely,” (GES Co-director) Gould said…”there are no genetic distinctions between Black and white people. If the RNA could harm Black people, it would harm white people too.” | Fred Gould |
3 minority-serving agricultural programs for students to know aboutBre Holbert, Ag Daily | 1/14/2022Features photo of AgBioFEWS Fellow DeShae Dillard • Read more » | 1/14/2022 | Bre Holbert | Ag Daily | Features photo of AgBioFEWS Fellow DeShae Dillard | DeShae Dillard |
Advancing a Culture of Interdisciplinary ExcellenceEmily Packard, NC State News | 1/12/2022“The Genetics and Genomics Academy will provide a wealth of opportunities for not just faculty, but also students to build their skills working with a diverse group within the university setting,” said Fred Gould, the academy’s executive director. • Read more » | 1/12/2022 | Emily Packard | NC State News | “The Genetics and Genomics Academy will provide a wealth of opportunities for not just faculty, but also students to build their skills working with a diverse group within the university setting,” said Fred Gould, the academy’s executive director. | Fred Gould |
Enhancing NC State’s Data-Driven, Climate-Smart Agriculture Talent PoolKristin Sargent , NC State CALS News | 1/7/2022Research assistant professor Daniela Jones discovered her spark for solving problems as an industrial engineering student at Mississippi State University. • Read more » | 1/7/2022 | Kristin Sargent | NC State CALS News | Research assistant professor Daniela Jones discovered her spark for solving problems as an industrial engineering student at Mississippi State University. | Daniela Jones |
Blog: Considerations for developing GMO crops around the worldModesta Abugu, GES Center | 11/10/2021Agriculture is changing and so are the technologies needed to improve it. Scientists should be allowed to develop genetically modified (GM) crops to provide options for smallholder farmers who depend on a successful harvest for their livelihood. • Read more » | 11/10/2021 | Modesta Abugu | GES Center | Agriculture is changing and so are the technologies needed to improve it. Scientists should be allowed to develop genetically modified (GM) crops to provide options for smallholder farmers who depend on a successful harvest for their livelihood. | Modesta Abugu |
Science, Technology and Society Second Meeting – Peru 2021Adriana Thalia Gonzales Del Carpio, Sebastián Zárate Vásquez and Amanda Vilchez, Society for Social Studies of Science | 11/8/2021The Second Peruvian STS Meeting was an opportunity to bring together experts and practitioners of science and technology communication, policy, and decision making. • Read more » | 11/8/2021 | Adriana Thalia Gonzales Del Carpio, Sebastián Zárate Vásquez and Amanda Vilchez | Society for Social Studies of Science | The Second Peruvian STS Meeting was an opportunity to bring together experts and practitioners of science and technology communication, policy, and decision making. | Sebastián Zárate |
NC State Launches Universitywide Genetics and Genomics AcademyEmily Packard, NC State News | 11/5/2021Fred Gould has been named executive director of the Genetics and Genomics Academy, effective November 1. Gould is a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. • Read more » | 11/5/2021 | Emily Packard | NC State News | Fred Gould has been named executive director of the Genetics and Genomics Academy, effective November 1. Gould is a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. | Fred Gould |
Graduate Mentorship Program Extended for Future CohortsRichard Campbell, NC State CALS News | 10/25/2021The program has already impacted 2021-2024 Rockey FFAR Fellows Cohort member DeShae Dillard, an NC State Ph.D. student in entomology. “I was recently accepted into the Leadership Development Committee for ESA. Being a fellow has radically changed my perspective on what I am able to accomplish as an individual.” • Read more » | 10/25/2021 | Richard Campbell | NC State CALS News | The program has already impacted 2021-2024 Rockey FFAR Fellows Cohort member DeShae Dillard, an NC State Ph.D. student in entomology. “I was recently accepted into the Leadership Development Committee for ESA. Being a fellow has radically changed my perspective on what I am able to accomplish as an individual.” | DeShae Dillard |
Khara Grieger to Co-lead Knowledge Transfer Efforts for New $25 million Phosphorus Research CenterPJ Bogdan, NC State CALS News | 10/8/2021“There’s a growing recognition that we need to innovate better – and in a way that takes into account societal perceptions and needs,” Grieger said. • Read more » | 10/8/2021 | PJ Bogdan | NC State CALS News | “There’s a growing recognition that we need to innovate better – and in a way that takes into account societal perceptions and needs,” Grieger said. | Khara Grieger |
Episode 20: Risk, Expertise, and the Power of Community Perspectives in Science and Technology ft. Jason DelborneShobita Parthasarathy, The Received Wisdom Podcast | 10/5/2021In this episode, STS scholars Shobita Parthasarathy and Jack Stilgoe chat with Jason Delborne (beginning at 17:20), a professor at NC State University who has done both research and public and policy engagement related to gene drives, a new form of biotechnology that could transform our ecosystems. • Read more » | 10/5/2021 | Shobita Parthasarathy | The Received Wisdom Podcast | In this episode, STS scholars Shobita Parthasarathy and Jack Stilgoe chat with Jason Delborne (beginning at 17:20), a professor at NC State University who has done both research and public and policy engagement related to gene drives, a new form of biotechnology that could transform our ecosystems. | Jason Delborne |
iGEM. Tackles. SDGs. Todd Kuiken chat with Zeeshan.iGEM, #SynBio Podcast | 10/5/2021In today's episode we discuss with Todd Kuiken of the NC State GES Center: bringing the iGEM SDG (sustainable development goals) working group to life; the first few questions iGEMers should ask themselves when trying to develop an SDG project; and the intense, controversial and hopeful conversations taking place at the UN and within the convention of biological diversity. • Read more » | 10/5/2021 | iGEM | #SynBio Podcast | In today's episode we discuss with Todd Kuiken of the NC State GES Center: bringing the iGEM SDG (sustainable development goals) working group to life; the first few questions iGEMers should ask themselves when trying to develop an SDG project; and the intense, controversial and hopeful conversations taking place at the UN and within the convention of biological diversity. | Todd Kuiken |
What to Know About GMOs: Five Questions with Biotech Policy Expert Jennifer KuzmaNash Dunn, Accolades | 9/29/2021We asked Jennifer Kuzma to share some of her insights with our readers. Here, she answers five essential questions about these increasingly prevalent technologies and products. • Read more » | 9/29/2021 | Nash Dunn | Accolades | We asked Jennifer Kuzma to share some of her insights with our readers. Here, she answers five essential questions about these increasingly prevalent technologies and products. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Podcast: GMOs - from 'Frankenfoods' to Superfoods?Podcast, BBC Business Daily | 8/2/2021Professor Fred Gould, who chaired a large study into safety of GMOs for the National Academy of Sciences in the US, warns that this technology is not a silver bullet for solving all of our environmental and health problems. • Read more » | 8/2/2021 | Podcast | BBC Business Daily | Professor Fred Gould, who chaired a large study into safety of GMOs for the National Academy of Sciences in the US, warns that this technology is not a silver bullet for solving all of our environmental and health problems. | Fred Gould |
A Sterile Solution: How Crispr Could Protect Wild SalmonLisa Abend, Salon | 7/30/2021In the U.S., Kuzma has noted similar trends. "In surveys, people say they see edits or genes inserted from the same species as slightly more acceptable than transgenic," she said, referring to genes inserted from different species. • Read more » | 7/30/2021 | Lisa Abend | Salon | In the U.S., Kuzma has noted similar trends. "In surveys, people say they see edits or genes inserted from the same species as slightly more acceptable than transgenic," she said, referring to genes inserted from different species. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Podcast: By focusing on biotechnology breakthroughs, have scientists overlooked simpler solutions to our food security problems?BBC World Service, Genetic Literacy Project | 7/28/2021By putting their faith in technology, have scientists and companies overlooked other simpler solutions to our food security problems? • Read more » | 7/28/2021 | BBC World Service | Genetic Literacy Project | By putting their faith in technology, have scientists and companies overlooked other simpler solutions to our food security problems? | Jennifer Kuzma |
US universities push for fewer hurdles on gene editing farm animalsPaul Basken, Times Higher Education | 7/26/2021But that’s not unwarranted given the complexities and potential implications of genetic changes that could become permanent and spread across the food supply, said Professor Kuzma, a co-founder and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State. Research delays attributed to the FDA may be upsetting some universities but could benefit them in the long run if it prevents a dangerous mistake, Professor Kuzma said. • Read more » | 7/26/2021 | Paul Basken | Times Higher Education | But that’s not unwarranted given the complexities and potential implications of genetic changes that could become permanent and spread across the food supply, said Professor Kuzma, a co-founder and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State. Research delays attributed to the FDA may be upsetting some universities but could benefit them in the long run if it prevents a dangerous mistake, Professor Kuzma said. | Jennifer Kuzma |
A Sterile Solution: How Crispr Could Protect Wild SalmonLisa Abend, Undark Magazine | 7/21/2021“The producers thought that only their edit was being introduced,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “You have to be cautious that you’re not getting any off-target” — or unintended — “effects,” she said. One way to guard against this: Sequence the offspring’s entire genome and look carefully for unintended changes in the DNA. • Read more » | 7/21/2021 | Lisa Abend | Undark Magazine | “The producers thought that only their edit was being introduced,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “You have to be cautious that you’re not getting any off-target” — or unintended — “effects,” she said. One way to guard against this: Sequence the offspring’s entire genome and look carefully for unintended changes in the DNA. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Learning to Love G.M.O.sJennifer Kahn, New York Times Magazine | 7/20/2021Nearly half of all U.S. shoppers say that they try not to buy G.M.O. foods, while a study by Jennifer Kuzma, a biochemist who is a director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, found that consumers will pay up to 20 percent more to avoid them.The fear of such unforeseen effects — what Kuzma calls “unknowingness” — is perhaps consumers’ biggest concern when it comes to G.M.O.s. Genetic interactions, after all, are famously complex. Adding a new gene — or simply changing how a gene is regulated (i.e., how active it is) — rarely affects just a single thing. • Read more » | 7/20/2021 | Jennifer Kahn | New York Times Magazine | Nearly half of all U.S. shoppers say that they try not to buy G.M.O. foods, while a study by Jennifer Kuzma, a biochemist who is a director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, found that consumers will pay up to 20 percent more to avoid them.The fear of such unforeseen effects — what Kuzma calls “unknowingness” — is perhaps consumers’ biggest concern when it comes to G.M.O.s. Genetic interactions, after all, are famously complex. Adding a new gene — or simply changing how a gene is regulated (i.e., how active it is) — rarely affects just a single thing. | Jennifer Kuzma, Fred Gould |
Learning to Love G.M.O.sJennifer Kahn, New York Times Magazine | 7/20/2021Despite that, plant geneticists tend not to be overly concerned about the risks of G.M.O.s, as long as the modifications are made with some care. As a 2016 report by the National Academy of Sciences found, G.M.O.s were generally safe, though it allowed that minor impacts were theoretically possible. Fred Gould, a professor of agriculture who was chairman of the committee that prepared the 600-page report, noted that genetic changes that alter a metabolic pathway — the cellular process that transforms biochemical elements into a particular nutrient or compound, like the anthocyanins in Martin’s tomato — were especially important to study because they could cause cascading effects. • Read more » | 7/20/2021 | Jennifer Kahn | New York Times Magazine | Despite that, plant geneticists tend not to be overly concerned about the risks of G.M.O.s, as long as the modifications are made with some care. As a 2016 report by the National Academy of Sciences found, G.M.O.s were generally safe, though it allowed that minor impacts were theoretically possible. Fred Gould, a professor of agriculture who was chairman of the committee that prepared the 600-page report, noted that genetic changes that alter a metabolic pathway — the cellular process that transforms biochemical elements into a particular nutrient or compound, like the anthocyanins in Martin’s tomato — were especially important to study because they could cause cascading effects. | Jennifer Kuzma, Fred Gould |
Fred Gould: Indeed, I Was a HippieMarlin E. Rice, American Entomologist | 6/7/2021Research scientist Fred Gould began his career studying the evolution of spider mite host range and its relationship to the development of insecticide resistance. • Read more » | 6/7/2021 | Marlin E. Rice | American Entomologist | Research scientist Fred Gould began his career studying the evolution of spider mite host range and its relationship to the development of insecticide resistance. | Fred Gould |
First GMO Mosquitoes to Be Released In the Florida KeysTaylor White, Undark | 4/12/2021While the company does not plan to release the mosquitos near areas where the antibiotic is used, Kuzma says the EPA’s risk assessment did not include testing of any standing water for tetracycline — something, she adds, “would have been easy enough to do for good due diligence.” • Read more » | 4/12/2021 | Taylor White | Undark | While the company does not plan to release the mosquitos near areas where the antibiotic is used, Kuzma says the EPA’s risk assessment did not include testing of any standing water for tetracycline — something, she adds, “would have been easy enough to do for good due diligence.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Podcast: Gene editing could revolutionise environmental conservation – but should we use it?Jheni Osman, BBC Sounds | 4/6/2021A conversation with scientists [including Dr. Todd Kuiken] currently researching potential uses of gene editing for environmental conservation, including combining it with a gene drive to control grey squirrel populations, using CRISPR to find the genes responsible for heat tolerance in coral, and editing genetic diversity into species on the brink of extinction. • Read more » | 4/6/2021 | Jheni Osman | BBC Sounds | A conversation with scientists [including Dr. Todd Kuiken] currently researching potential uses of gene editing for environmental conservation, including combining it with a gene drive to control grey squirrel populations, using CRISPR to find the genes responsible for heat tolerance in coral, and editing genetic diversity into species on the brink of extinction. | Todd Kuiken |
Agroecology movement is not against modern technologies - Peasant Farmers Association of GhanaJoseph Opoku Gakpo, Modern Ghana | 3/30/2021Nassib Mugwanya, a Ugandan agricultural communications specialist [and AgBioFEWS Fellow] who previously worked with the National Crops Resources Research Institute, believes the wholistic definition of agroecology creates an opportunity to embrace emerging technologies, such as genetically modified (GM) seeds. • Read more » | 3/30/2021 | Joseph Opoku Gakpo | Modern Ghana | Nassib Mugwanya, a Ugandan agricultural communications specialist [and AgBioFEWS Fellow] who previously worked with the National Crops Resources Research Institute, believes the wholistic definition of agroecology creates an opportunity to embrace emerging technologies, such as genetically modified (GM) seeds. | Nassib Mugwanya |
Village Hears From Experts As Genetic-Mosquito Release Experiment NearsJim McCarthy, Keys Weekly | 3/26/2021“In the laboratory, it turned out the male mosquitoes flew fine and mated well. But in the real environment, they weren’t as strong as the wild type mosquitoes..." said Fred Gould. Jennifer Kuzma, professor of public and international affairs at NC State, outlined a lack of higher level oversight involving not only federal agencies, but also interested parties and external expert advisory panels. • Read more » | 3/26/2021 | Jim McCarthy | Keys Weekly | “In the laboratory, it turned out the male mosquitoes flew fine and mated well. But in the real environment, they weren’t as strong as the wild type mosquitoes..." said Fred Gould. Jennifer Kuzma, professor of public and international affairs at NC State, outlined a lack of higher level oversight involving not only federal agencies, but also interested parties and external expert advisory panels. | Jennifer Kuzma, Fred Gould |
Video: How do local communities participate in gene drive research?, Gene Drive Network | 3/23/2021In this video produced by the Gene Drive Network, Dr. Jason Delborne discusses how local communities can participate in gene drive research, and describes an analogy of "grasping hands," where each participant allows themselves the possibility of being moved. • Read more » | 3/23/2021 | Gene Drive Network | In this video produced by the Gene Drive Network, Dr. Jason Delborne discusses how local communities can participate in gene drive research, and describes an analogy of "grasping hands," where each participant allows themselves the possibility of being moved. | Jason Delborne | |
Podcast: GMOs and Sustainable CropsEmily Journey, GMO Watch | 3/15/2021Dr. Fred Gould shares the importance of GMOs being much more than just how we can alter the food we eat and what scientists are doing now to change the future of potential disease and overall health. • Read more » | 3/15/2021 | Emily Journey | GMO Watch | Dr. Fred Gould shares the importance of GMOs being much more than just how we can alter the food we eat and what scientists are doing now to change the future of potential disease and overall health. | Fred Gould |
Viewpoint: Gene-edited crop developers need to win public trust. Transparency is how they can do itMargaret Evans, Genetic Literacy Project | 3/2/2021“There is a segment of the population where people want to know whether their foods are modified by modern biotechnology and they won’t necessarily distinguish between something that is transgenetic, a first-generation genetic engineered method or a second-generation gene edited technique. I think it’s important for people to know that these gene edited plants are going into the market.” • Read more » | 3/2/2021 | Margaret Evans | Genetic Literacy Project | “There is a segment of the population where people want to know whether their foods are modified by modern biotechnology and they won’t necessarily distinguish between something that is transgenetic, a first-generation genetic engineered method or a second-generation gene edited technique. I think it’s important for people to know that these gene edited plants are going into the market.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Gene Revolution Turns 25 - 1Pamela Smith, DTN Progressive Farmer | 3/1/2021"Consumers want to know which products are genetically modified and which are not. I don't expect that to change for gene-edited crops," Kuzma said. "Crop developers, including companies, have signaled they want to do a better job with gene editing to improve public trust. • Read more » | 3/1/2021 | Pamela Smith | DTN Progressive Farmer | "Consumers want to know which products are genetically modified and which are not. I don't expect that to change for gene-edited crops," Kuzma said. "Crop developers, including companies, have signaled they want to do a better job with gene editing to improve public trust. | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger |
Researchers want GMO transparencyPost, GM Watch | 3/1/2021The article reports Kuzma as saying that "even though developers of biotech foods want to do better with a second generation of gene editing, they are really making things more complicated by obscuring the terminology and exempting many things from both regulation and labelling." • Read more » | 3/1/2021 | Post | GM Watch | The article reports Kuzma as saying that "even though developers of biotech foods want to do better with a second generation of gene editing, they are really making things more complicated by obscuring the terminology and exempting many things from both regulation and labelling." | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger |
Researchers want GMO transparencyMargaret Evans, The Western Producer | 2/25/2021“Because many gene-edited crops would be exempt under SECURE, and new GM food-labelling rules may not apply to them, there needs to be some information repository for companies that want to do the right thing and be more transparent,” said Kuzma. “Our recommendations would provide a mechanism for that.” • Read more » | 2/25/2021 | Margaret Evans | The Western Producer | “Because many gene-edited crops would be exempt under SECURE, and new GM food-labelling rules may not apply to them, there needs to be some information repository for companies that want to do the right thing and be more transparent,” said Kuzma. “Our recommendations would provide a mechanism for that.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Alternative weed control - we'll have an app for thatJennifer Howard, Morning Ag Clips | 2/9/2021Researcher and associate professor Ramon Leon's interdisciplinary 3-D Weed Vision System aims to equip farmers with DIY imaging technology to reliably anticipate their cover crop’s performance and address weed escapes with precision accuracy • Read more » | 2/9/2021 | Jennifer Howard | Morning Ag Clips | Researcher and associate professor Ramon Leon's interdisciplinary 3-D Weed Vision System aims to equip farmers with DIY imaging technology to reliably anticipate their cover crop’s performance and address weed escapes with precision accuracy | Ramon Leon |
Gene-Edited Bacon Could Be Coming to Your Plate SoonEmily Mullin, Future Human | 1/27/2021“The developers of genetically engineered animals are thinking that they’re going to have an easier time going through the regulatory process,” says Jennifer Kuzma, PhD, co-founder and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, of the proposed change. • Read more » | 1/27/2021 | Emily Mullin | Future Human | “The developers of genetically engineered animals are thinking that they’re going to have an easier time going through the regulatory process,” says Jennifer Kuzma, PhD, co-founder and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, of the proposed change. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Biotech: An Environmentalist’s DilemmaTodd Kuiken, Biodesigned | 1/20/2021Environmental scientist Todd Kuiken weighs the pros and cons of deploying biotechnology to protect vulnerable ecosystems. • Read more » | 1/20/2021 | Todd Kuiken | Biodesigned | Environmental scientist Todd Kuiken weighs the pros and cons of deploying biotechnology to protect vulnerable ecosystems. | Todd Kuiken |
Exploring Gene Drive Technologies in Agriculture, Biodiversity, and Human Disease, Foundation for the National Institutes of Health | 1/13/2021Video: Dr. Fred Gould and Sir Charles Godfray (Oxford University) discuss the interesting exploration of gene drive technologies in agriculture, biodiversity, and human disease • Read more » | 1/13/2021 | Foundation for the National Institutes of Health | Video: Dr. Fred Gould and Sir Charles Godfray (Oxford University) discuss the interesting exploration of gene drive technologies in agriculture, biodiversity, and human disease | Fred Gould | |
5 trends fueling food and beverage innovation in 2021Lillianna Byington, Christopher Doering, Megan Poinski , Food Dive | 1/4/2021Consumers will see food with a lot of different traits, such as fresher and tastier, "although they will not necessarily know they are gene edited,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor at North Carolina State University and co-director of its Genetic Engineering and Society Center. • Read more » | 1/4/2021 | Lillianna Byington, Christopher Doering, Megan Poinski | Food Dive | Consumers will see food with a lot of different traits, such as fresher and tastier, "although they will not necessarily know they are gene edited,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor at North Carolina State University and co-director of its Genetic Engineering and Society Center. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Francisco Sagasti, the intellectual who fosters science and democracy in Peru’s most critical hourSebastián Zárate, Society for Social Studies of Science | 12/27/2020Sebastián Zárate (AgBioFEWS Fellow) describes the participation of Francisco Sagasti on the Annual Meeting of CTS in Perú in 2018 and reflects on the challenging role of Sagasti as a National President. • Read more » | 12/27/2020 | Sebastián Zárate | Society for Social Studies of Science | Sebastián Zárate (AgBioFEWS Fellow) describes the participation of Francisco Sagasti on the Annual Meeting of CTS in Perú in 2018 and reflects on the challenging role of Sagasti as a National President. | Sebastián Zárate |
Scientists Set a Path for Field Trials of Gene Drive OrganismsMario Aguilera, UC San Diego Press | 12/17/2020“Core commitments for field trials of gene drive organisms,” published Dec. 18, 2020 in Science by more than 40 researchers, including GES Center Co-Directors Jennifer Kuzma and Fred Gould and GES Executive Committee member Jason Delborne, as well as several other GES-affiliated faculty and scholars. • Read more » | 12/17/2020 | Mario Aguilera | UC San Diego Press | “Core commitments for field trials of gene drive organisms,” published Dec. 18, 2020 in Science by more than 40 researchers, including GES Center Co-Directors Jennifer Kuzma and Fred Gould and GES Executive Committee member Jason Delborne, as well as several other GES-affiliated faculty and scholars. | Jason Delborne, Fred Gould, Jennifer Kuzma, Royden Saah, Max Scott, Marce Lorenzen |
Awards for Excellence 2020 Recognition Ceremony, NC State News | 12/14/2020Patti Mulligan, GES Center Communications Director, was awarded the NC State Chancellor’s Award for Excellence for Efficiency and Innovation, the university’s most prestigious honor bestowed upon non-faculty employees. • Read more » | 12/14/2020 | NC State News | Patti Mulligan, GES Center Communications Director, was awarded the NC State Chancellor’s Award for Excellence for Efficiency and Innovation, the university’s most prestigious honor bestowed upon non-faculty employees. | Patti Mulligan | |
Dependence on agroecology will jeopardise our food security – Deputy Agric MinisterJoseph Opoku Gakpo, Joy Online | 12/4/2020Ugandan agriculturalist Nassib Mugwanya has argued the limitations of agroecology will make it difficult to scale it up across Africa. “Whatever the problems and limitations of modern agriculture may be, dogmatic adherence to a model based fundamentally on traditional farming is not the answer. African agriculture needs transformation,” he observes. • Read more » | 12/4/2020 | Joseph Opoku Gakpo | Joy Online | Ugandan agriculturalist Nassib Mugwanya has argued the limitations of agroecology will make it difficult to scale it up across Africa. “Whatever the problems and limitations of modern agriculture may be, dogmatic adherence to a model based fundamentally on traditional farming is not the answer. African agriculture needs transformation,” he observes. | Nassib Mugwanya |
More Transparency Recommended for Gene-Edited CropsMick Kulikowski, NC State News | 11/19/2020NC State researchers Jennifer Kuzma and Khara Grieger, in a policy forum paper published in the journal Science, say that SECURE, though decades in the making, falls short in providing enough public information about gene-edited crops in the food supply. • Read more » | 11/19/2020 | Mick Kulikowski | NC State News | NC State researchers Jennifer Kuzma and Khara Grieger, in a policy forum paper published in the journal Science, say that SECURE, though decades in the making, falls short in providing enough public information about gene-edited crops in the food supply. | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger |
The ‘Public Good’ of Controlling Mobile Pests with Genetically Engineered CropsMargaret Huffman, NC State ARE News | 11/11/2020"While these results suggest that some farmers may be free-riding on their neighbors’ use of Bt crops, this should not be taken to conclude that farmers are necessarily ‘underadopting’ Bt crops,” said Zack Brown, Associate Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics and GES Center faculty member. • Read more » | 11/11/2020 | Margaret Huffman | NC State ARE News | "While these results suggest that some farmers may be free-riding on their neighbors’ use of Bt crops, this should not be taken to conclude that farmers are necessarily ‘underadopting’ Bt crops,” said Zack Brown, Associate Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics and GES Center faculty member. | Zack Brown |
Sunrise to Startups, Grad Students Plan FuturesStacy Chandler, NC State CALS Magazine | 11/2/2020AgBioFEWS Fellow Jabeen Ahmad's journey from public defender to plant biologist. “Interdisciplinary studies are crucial now. It is absolutely essential to have a skill set that can cross into all of these different spheres." • Read more » | 11/2/2020 | Stacy Chandler | NC State CALS Magazine | AgBioFEWS Fellow Jabeen Ahmad's journey from public defender to plant biologist. “Interdisciplinary studies are crucial now. It is absolutely essential to have a skill set that can cross into all of these different spheres." | Jabeen Ahmad |
Video: Teach Me in 10 – Gene Drive Research With Dr Jennifer Baltzegar, Technology Networks | 9/10/2020Dr. Baltzegar teaches us about how the maturation of genetic engineering approaches has advanced gene drives, the two different strategies for gene drives and some of the key questions surrounding the application of gene drives in society. • Read more » | 9/10/2020 | Technology Networks | Dr. Baltzegar teaches us about how the maturation of genetic engineering approaches has advanced gene drives, the two different strategies for gene drives and some of the key questions surrounding the application of gene drives in society. | Jennifer Baltzegar | |
Podcast: The Unseen World of Food Nanotechnology, The Measure of Everyday Life podcast | 9/2/2020New advances in nanotechnology offer potential promise for the future as well as raising concerns for some. On this episode, we talk with Khara Grieger of North Carolina State University about her work on public understanding of nanotechnology innovations for food production. • Read more » | 9/2/2020 | The Measure of Everyday Life podcast | New advances in nanotechnology offer potential promise for the future as well as raising concerns for some. On this episode, we talk with Khara Grieger of North Carolina State University about her work on public understanding of nanotechnology innovations for food production. | Khara Grieger | |
Office of Research and Innovation Honors Three with Award for ExcellenceMatt Simpson, NC State ORI News | 8/10/2020SHRA Winner - Patti Mulligan, director of communications for the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, was nominated in the Efficiency and Innovation category. • Read more » | 8/10/2020 | Matt Simpson | NC State ORI News | SHRA Winner - Patti Mulligan, director of communications for the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, was nominated in the Efficiency and Innovation category. | Patti Mulligan |
Biotechnology Could Change the Cattle Industry. Will it Succeed?Dyllan Furness, Undark | 8/5/2020While the presence of antibiotic-resistant plasmid genes in beef probably does not pose a direct threat to consumers, according to Jennifer Kuzma, a professor of science and technology policy and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, it does raise the possible risk of introducing antibiotic-resistant genes into the microflora of people’s digestive systems. • Read more » | 8/5/2020 | Dyllan Furness | Undark | While the presence of antibiotic-resistant plasmid genes in beef probably does not pose a direct threat to consumers, according to Jennifer Kuzma, a professor of science and technology policy and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, it does raise the possible risk of introducing antibiotic-resistant genes into the microflora of people’s digestive systems. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Returning to Farming’s Roots in the Battle Against the ‘Billion-Dollar Beetle’Rosemary Brandt, NC State ARE News | 7/21/2020Nicknamed the "billion-dollar beetle" for its enormous economic costs to growers in the United States each year, the western corn rootworm is one of the most devastating pests farmers face. • Read more » | 7/21/2020 | Rosemary Brandt | NC State ARE News | Nicknamed the "billion-dollar beetle" for its enormous economic costs to growers in the United States each year, the western corn rootworm is one of the most devastating pests farmers face. | Zack Brown |
Using Leaf Fungi to Improve Crop ResilienceMollie Rappe, NC State CALS News | 6/29/2020Jason Delborne, a researcher with the Genetic Engineering and Society Center and the College of Natural Resources, will lead the efforts to assess public opinion and analyze the potential regulatory pathway for techniques to introduce beneficial plant fungi to crops. • Read more » | 6/29/2020 | Mollie Rappe | NC State CALS News | Jason Delborne, a researcher with the Genetic Engineering and Society Center and the College of Natural Resources, will lead the efforts to assess public opinion and analyze the potential regulatory pathway for techniques to introduce beneficial plant fungi to crops. | Jason Delborne |
Gene-edited mosquitoes are ready for the U.S. — but is the U.S. ready for them?Jenny McGrath, Digital Trends | 6/27/2020Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Ph.D., co-founder and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center at North Carolina State University, co-authored two articles raising concerns, one in The Conversation and one in The Boston Globe. “It was just surprising to me and my coauthors that, in the face of such an important decision to release the first genetically modified mosquito into the wild, that there wasn’t an external scientific board or panel that could help EPA make that decision." • Read more » | 6/27/2020 | Jenny McGrath | Digital Trends | Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Ph.D., co-founder and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center at North Carolina State University, co-authored two articles raising concerns, one in The Conversation and one in The Boston Globe. “It was just surprising to me and my coauthors that, in the face of such an important decision to release the first genetically modified mosquito into the wild, that there wasn’t an external scientific board or panel that could help EPA make that decision." | Jennifer Kuzma |
Before genetically modified mosquitoes are released, we need a better EPANatalie Kofler and Jennifer Kuzma, | 6/22/2020If risks are being assessed, it is largely happening behind closed doors between technology developers and EPA employees. • Read more » | 6/22/2020 | Natalie Kofler and Jennifer Kuzma | If risks are being assessed, it is largely happening behind closed doors between technology developers and EPA employees. | Jennifer Kuzma | |
Study uses satellite imagery, internet searches to track COVID-19, how reliable is it?Judith Retana, CBS-17 | 6/11/2020Professor Jennifer Kuzma, a professor in the School of Public and International Affairs and Co-director of Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NCSU said we should take this study with a grain of salt. • Read more » | 6/11/2020 | Judith Retana | CBS-17 | Professor Jennifer Kuzma, a professor in the School of Public and International Affairs and Co-director of Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NCSU said we should take this study with a grain of salt. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Biodesign Challenge Summit 2020Info, Bustler | 6/9/2020BDC 2020 JUDGES: Fred Gould, Co-director, Genetic Engineering and Society Center, NC State; Todd Kuiken, Senior Research Scholar, North Carolina State University • Read more » | 6/9/2020 | Info | Bustler | BDC 2020 JUDGES: Fred Gould, Co-director, Genetic Engineering and Society Center, NC State; Todd Kuiken, Senior Research Scholar, North Carolina State University | Todd Kuiken, Fred Gould |
Genetically modified mosquitoes could be released in Florida and Texas beginning this summer – silver bullet or jumping the gun?Brian Allan et al, The Conversation | 6/4/2020As vector biologists, geneticists, policy experts and bioethicists, we are concerned that current government oversight and scientific evaluation of GM mosquitoes do not ensure their responsible deployment. • Read more » | 6/4/2020 | Brian Allan et al | The Conversation | As vector biologists, geneticists, policy experts and bioethicists, we are concerned that current government oversight and scientific evaluation of GM mosquitoes do not ensure their responsible deployment. | Jennifer Kuzma |
The Rouge ExperimentersMargaret Talbot, The New Yorker | 5/18/2020Todd Kuiken, a researcher at N.C. State who has studied the D.I.Y.-bio community for years, told me, “At first, there was this fear that biohackers in the basement were going to release pandemics. These were really myths.” • Read more » | 5/18/2020 | Margaret Talbot | The New Yorker | Todd Kuiken, a researcher at N.C. State who has studied the D.I.Y.-bio community for years, told me, “At first, there was this fear that biohackers in the basement were going to release pandemics. These were really myths.” | Todd Kuiken |
Policy Forum: Promoting biosecurity by professionalizing biosecurityRebecca L. Moritz, Kavita M. Berger, Barbara R. Owen, David R. Gillum, Science | 2/21/2020Reference to Todd Kuiken's work: "For example, the implementation of the credential could be modeled after work being done within the DIYbio community, which involves obtaining widespread adoption of safety practices among distributed communities from around the world (10). This is an example of what can be achieved through engagement, communication, and partnership." • Read more » | 2/21/2020 | Rebecca L. Moritz, Kavita M. Berger, Barbara R. Owen, David R. Gillum | Science | Reference to Todd Kuiken's work: "For example, the implementation of the credential could be modeled after work being done within the DIYbio community, which involves obtaining widespread adoption of safety practices among distributed communities from around the world (10). This is an example of what can be achieved through engagement, communication, and partnership." | Todd Kuiken |
Cornell scientists amplify ‘green’ research at AAASBlaine Friedlander, Cornell News | 2/20/2020Nassib Mugwanya, center, a member of the Cornell Alliance for Science’s inaugural cohort (and GES AgBioFEWS Fellow), talks with Ed Buckler, right, a U.S. Department of Agriculture appointee and a Cornell adjunct professor on plant breeding and genetics, after a AAAS agricultural session on Feb. 15. • Read more » | 2/20/2020 | Blaine Friedlander | Cornell News | Nassib Mugwanya, center, a member of the Cornell Alliance for Science’s inaugural cohort (and GES AgBioFEWS Fellow), talks with Ed Buckler, right, a U.S. Department of Agriculture appointee and a Cornell adjunct professor on plant breeding and genetics, after a AAAS agricultural session on Feb. 15. | Nassib Mugwanya |
GRIP4PSI Seed Grant Winners AnnouncedStaff, NC State CALS News | 2/17/2020Four NC State research teams have been selected as recipients of the next phase of the Game-Changing Research Incentive Program (GRIP). The program was initially created in 2016 as a three-year seed-funding initiative to stimulate interdisciplinary and collaborative research. Now, a new initiative — called GRIP4PSI — will encourage the NC State community to collaborate on integrated research • Read more » | 2/17/2020 | Staff | NC State CALS News | Four NC State research teams have been selected as recipients of the next phase of the Game-Changing Research Incentive Program (GRIP). The program was initially created in 2016 as a three-year seed-funding initiative to stimulate interdisciplinary and collaborative research. Now, a new initiative — called GRIP4PSI — will encourage the NC State community to collaborate on integrated research | Khara Grieger, Jennifer Kuzma |
Can CRISPR Save Tufty Fluffytail?Liz Tracey, JSTOR Daily | 1/24/2020Resources: ENGINEERING THE WILD: GENE DRIVES AND INTERGENERATIONAL EQUITY, By: Jennifer Kuzma and Lindsey Rawls • Read more » | 1/24/2020 | Liz Tracey | JSTOR Daily | Resources: ENGINEERING THE WILD: GENE DRIVES AND INTERGENERATIONAL EQUITY, By: Jennifer Kuzma and Lindsey Rawls | Jennifer Kuzma |
At the Crossroads of Art and Biotech, a Warning: Be Careful What You Wish ForBrian Howe, Indy Week | 1/13/2020“There are different ways of knowing things,” Gould adds. “That’s why Molly came up with the name: not artwork, but art’s work. What is an artist supposed to do?" • Read more » | 1/13/2020 | Brian Howe | Indy Week | “There are different ways of knowing things,” Gould adds. “That’s why Molly came up with the name: not artwork, but art’s work. What is an artist supposed to do?" | Fred Gould |
Gene editing could revolutionize the food industry, but it'll have to fight the PR war GMO foods lostIra Basen, CBC Radio | 1/12/2020Kuzma agrees that GMO researchers have sometimes been guilty of "perhaps overstating the promise of the technology and understating potential risk." But she believes those involved in developing gene-editing techniques want to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. • Read more » | 1/12/2020 | Ira Basen | CBC Radio | Kuzma agrees that GMO researchers have sometimes been guilty of "perhaps overstating the promise of the technology and understating potential risk." But she believes those involved in developing gene-editing techniques want to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. | Jennifer Kuzma |
An Ancient Greek Festival For Creating Female SpermGrant Holub-Moorman & Anita Rao, WUNC The State of Things program | 1/10/2020""I'm interested in how we can use art and science to break down some of these symbols to actually break down that hierarchy." - Charlotte Jarvis, Art's Work/Genetic Futures artist • Read more » | 1/10/2020 | Grant Holub-Moorman & Anita Rao | WUNC The State of Things program | ""I'm interested in how we can use art and science to break down some of these symbols to actually break down that hierarchy." - Charlotte Jarvis, Art's Work/Genetic Futures artist | Todd Kuiken, Fred Gould, Patti Mulligan |
Feature: The Gene Drive Dilemma: We Can Alter Entire Species, but Should We?Jennifer Kahn, The New York Times Magazine | 1/8/2020Todd Kuiken, a researcher at the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, says that “it was basically a lesson in how not to do things.” But, he pointed out, the “Monsanto Mistake” also alerted researchers to the need for a more transparent and collaborative approach. • Read more » | 1/8/2020 | Jennifer Kahn | The New York Times Magazine | Todd Kuiken, a researcher at the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, says that “it was basically a lesson in how not to do things.” But, he pointed out, the “Monsanto Mistake” also alerted researchers to the need for a more transparent and collaborative approach. | Todd Kuiken |
Works - Art's Work in the Age of BiotechnologyAlice Fleerackers, Art the Science | 1/7/2020NC State University is the perfect place to discuss these issues, as the institution has been at the forefront of not only discoveries and innovations in genetics, but is also the home of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES). The Center’s co-director entomologist Fred Gould, along with Molly Renda with NCSU Libraries’ Exhibit Program had discussed creating an art exhibit that addressed the same ethical and practical questions being discussed among GES’s interdisciplinary scholars..." • Read more » | 1/7/2020 | Alice Fleerackers | Art the Science | NC State University is the perfect place to discuss these issues, as the institution has been at the forefront of not only discoveries and innovations in genetics, but is also the home of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES). The Center’s co-director entomologist Fred Gould, along with Molly Renda with NCSU Libraries’ Exhibit Program had discussed creating an art exhibit that addressed the same ethical and practical questions being discussed among GES’s interdisciplinary scholars..." | Todd Kuiken, Fred Gould, Patti Mulligan |
Fusing Disciplines, Transforming Graduate EducationStaff, NC State News | 1/2/2020The Agricultural Biotechnology in Food, Energy and Water Systems program brings scholars together to solve grand challenges. • Read more » | 1/2/2020 | Staff | NC State News | The Agricultural Biotechnology in Food, Energy and Water Systems program brings scholars together to solve grand challenges. | Fred Gould, Jennifer Kuzma |
Exhibition: ‘Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Futures’Staff, CLOT Magazine | 12/19/2019Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Futures is an art-science exhibit and symposium of artists, scientists, and humanities scholars, led by the North Carolina State University Libraries and the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center, held at the Gregg Museum of Art & Design, the physical and digital display spaces of the University Libraries, and the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA). • Read more » | 12/19/2019 | Staff | CLOT Magazine | Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Futures is an art-science exhibit and symposium of artists, scientists, and humanities scholars, led by the North Carolina State University Libraries and the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center, held at the Gregg Museum of Art & Design, the physical and digital display spaces of the University Libraries, and the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA). | Todd Kuiken, Fred Gould, Patti Mulligan |
Mosquitoes armed with bacteria beat back dengue virusKelly Servick, Science | 11/22/2019"That trial is the “gold standard,” says [GES Co-director] Fred Gould, an evolutionary biologist at NC State. If the results, expected next year, back up the preliminary evidence that Wolbachia reduces dengue, he says, the World Health Organization could approve this microbial ally for broader use. • Read more » | 11/22/2019 | Kelly Servick | Science | "That trial is the “gold standard,” says [GES Co-director] Fred Gould, an evolutionary biologist at NC State. If the results, expected next year, back up the preliminary evidence that Wolbachia reduces dengue, he says, the World Health Organization could approve this microbial ally for broader use. | Fred Gould |
This Gene Technology Could Change the World. Its Maker Isn’t Sure It Should.Shayla Love, VICE | 11/18/2019One accident could affect the whole future of this work. In 1999, a patient died while participating in a gene therapy trial at the University of Pennsylvania, which "really slowed down...the field for a decade at least," according to Kuzma. "Could it happen in the case of gene drive? Yeah," she said. • Read more » | 11/18/2019 | Shayla Love | VICE | One accident could affect the whole future of this work. In 1999, a patient died while participating in a gene therapy trial at the University of Pennsylvania, which "really slowed down...the field for a decade at least," according to Kuzma. "Could it happen in the case of gene drive? Yeah," she said. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Margaret Atwood and the Biotechnology of TomorrowElizabeth Beal, NC State News | 11/18/2019Bringing together literature, science and art to comment on the future of genetic engineering is no small feat. “It feels like the culmination of everything the center has been working towards for the past five years,” says Patti Mulligan, communications director for the GES Center. • Read more » | 11/18/2019 | Elizabeth Beal | NC State News | Bringing together literature, science and art to comment on the future of genetic engineering is no small feat. “It feels like the culmination of everything the center has been working towards for the past five years,” says Patti Mulligan, communications director for the GES Center. | Patti Mulligan, Jennifer Kuzma, Fred Gould |
Margaret Atwood discusses her ‘prophetic’ novel, effects of new science developments on societyRachel Davis, Technician | 11/17/2019Kuzma said the mission of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center was to guide biotechnologies in responsible and sustainable ways. She stressed the importance of integrating social sciences, natural sciences, engineering and the humanities to tackle these issues and hold each other accountable for possible misuse of the new technologies. • Read more » | 11/17/2019 | Rachel Davis | Technician | Kuzma said the mission of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center was to guide biotechnologies in responsible and sustainable ways. She stressed the importance of integrating social sciences, natural sciences, engineering and the humanities to tackle these issues and hold each other accountable for possible misuse of the new technologies. | Jennifer Kuzma |
High-Tech Chestnuts: US to Consider Genetically Altered TreeMichael Hill, The Associated Press; New York Times | 11/6/2019"If the chestnut is approved ... I think it's accurate to say that it does help pave the way for other biotech trees," said Jason Delborne, an associate professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. • Read more » | 11/6/2019 | Michael Hill | The Associated Press; New York Times | "If the chestnut is approved ... I think it's accurate to say that it does help pave the way for other biotech trees," said Jason Delborne, an associate professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. | Jason Delborne |
The world's banana crops are under threat from a deadly fungus. Is gene editing the answer?Laura Brehaut, National Post | 11/4/2019The technique is perhaps best described by Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. In an interview with Gastropod, she likened DNA to a book and CRISPR to a pen: “You can go in and you can edit the letters in a word, or you can change different phrases, or you can edit whole paragraphs at very specific locations.” • Read more » | 11/4/2019 | Laura Brehaut | National Post | The technique is perhaps best described by Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. In an interview with Gastropod, she likened DNA to a book and CRISPR to a pen: “You can go in and you can edit the letters in a word, or you can change different phrases, or you can edit whole paragraphs at very specific locations.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
CRISPR Just Created a Hornless Bull, and It’s a Step Forward for Gene-Edited FoodShelly Fan, Singularity Hub | 10/22/2019“Genetic engineering has a pretty rough history when it comes to foods,” said Dr. Jennifer Kuzma at the North Carolina State University to Gastropod, an excellent podcast covering the science and history of food. • Read more » | 10/22/2019 | Shelly Fan | Singularity Hub | “Genetic engineering has a pretty rough history when it comes to foods,” said Dr. Jennifer Kuzma at the North Carolina State University to Gastropod, an excellent podcast covering the science and history of food. | Jennifer Kuzma |
The Yogurt Industry Has Been Using CRISPR for a DecadeNicola Twilley, Cynthia Graber, and Gastropod, The Atlantic | 10/14/2019As Jennifer Kuzma, the co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State, explained it to Gastropod, if DNA is a book, CRISPR is like a pen. “You can go in and you can edit the letters in a word, or you can change different phrases, or you can edit whole paragraphs at very specific locations,” she said. “Whereas with first-generation transgenic techniques, it was essentially throwing a new paragraph into a book.” • Read more » | 10/14/2019 | Nicola Twilley, Cynthia Graber, and Gastropod | The Atlantic | As Jennifer Kuzma, the co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State, explained it to Gastropod, if DNA is a book, CRISPR is like a pen. “You can go in and you can edit the letters in a word, or you can change different phrases, or you can edit whole paragraphs at very specific locations,” she said. “Whereas with first-generation transgenic techniques, it was essentially throwing a new paragraph into a book.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
How Do We Communicate Genetic Engineering?Dee Shore, NC State CALS Magazine | 10/13/2019In CALS entomologist Fred Gould, Dean Richard Linton sees a master craftsman. “Fred is building,” Linton says, “but not with bricks and concrete.” • Read more » | 10/13/2019 | Dee Shore | NC State CALS Magazine | In CALS entomologist Fred Gould, Dean Richard Linton sees a master craftsman. “Fred is building,” Linton says, “but not with bricks and concrete.” | Fred Gould |
‘Stop Stabbing Yourself,’ a Biohacker Tells His Daredevil PeersKristen V Brown, Bloomberg Businessweek | 10/11/2019Most DIY gene therapy experiments in people have failed or fizzled out. Todd Kuiken, a researcher at NC State University’s Genetic Engineering & Society Center who studies community science labs, says one measure of success for biohackers would be if they could create alternative pathways for careers in science, as computer hackers have for software engineers. • Read more » | 10/11/2019 | Kristen V Brown | Bloomberg Businessweek | Most DIY gene therapy experiments in people have failed or fizzled out. Todd Kuiken, a researcher at NC State University’s Genetic Engineering & Society Center who studies community science labs, says one measure of success for biohackers would be if they could create alternative pathways for careers in science, as computer hackers have for software engineers. | Todd Kuiken |
What’s CRISPR Doing in our Food?, Gastropod | 10/7/2019You've probably heard the hype: CRISPR will revolutionize biotech, cure disease, resurrect extinct species, and even create new-and-(not-so)-improved humans. Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Co-director of the GES Center at NC State, helps us understand the technology's potential, both good and bad, as well as how it might be regulated and labeled • Read more » | 10/7/2019 | Gastropod | You've probably heard the hype: CRISPR will revolutionize biotech, cure disease, resurrect extinct species, and even create new-and-(not-so)-improved humans. Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Co-director of the GES Center at NC State, helps us understand the technology's potential, both good and bad, as well as how it might be regulated and labeled | Jennifer Kuzma | |
Take the Kids: Wander through NC Museum of Art's park to find its corn mazeGo Ask Mom, WRAL News | 9/26/2019This year, the NC Museum of Art waded into the maize maze scene. But, as you might expect, this one isn't as much about getting lost as it is about learning about biotechnology and how it's shaping our genetic futures. • Read more » | 9/26/2019 | Go Ask Mom | WRAL News | This year, the NC Museum of Art waded into the maize maze scene. But, as you might expect, this one isn't as much about getting lost as it is about learning about biotechnology and how it's shaping our genetic futures. | Todd Kuiken |
Tempering Tech with Collective WisdomNatalie Kofler, Earth Island Journal | 9/25/2019Last year, 11 of my colleagues — including Kuzma, Esvelt — and I proposed an alternative approach that would provide a neutral space for balanced deliberation on application of CRISPR and gene drive technologies. In an article entitled “Editing nature: Local roots of global governance” published in Science, we lay out a new decision-making model that would enable local community representatives to decide if and how a genetically engineered organism should be released into the environment. • Read more » | 9/25/2019 | Natalie Kofler | Earth Island Journal | Last year, 11 of my colleagues — including Kuzma, Esvelt — and I proposed an alternative approach that would provide a neutral space for balanced deliberation on application of CRISPR and gene drive technologies. In an article entitled “Editing nature: Local roots of global governance” published in Science, we lay out a new decision-making model that would enable local community representatives to decide if and how a genetically engineered organism should be released into the environment. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Bioerror to bioterror - does synthetic biology give new tools to terrorists? Part 2Natash Mitchell, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Radio National | 9/22/2019From bioerror to bioterror, Science Friction's Natasha Mitchell was the only journalist at a recent closed NATO biosecurity workshop in Switzerland where leaders in the military, science and citizen science, sociology, and technological governance met to consider the threats. • Read more » | 9/22/2019 | Natash Mitchell | Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Radio National | From bioerror to bioterror, Science Friction's Natasha Mitchell was the only journalist at a recent closed NATO biosecurity workshop in Switzerland where leaders in the military, science and citizen science, sociology, and technological governance met to consider the threats. | Todd Kuiken |
From bioerror to bioterror - should we worry about synthetic biology? (Part 1)Natash Mitchell, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Radio National | 9/15/2019From bioerror to bioterror, Science Friction's Natasha Mitchell was the only journalist at a recent closed NATO biosecurity workshop in Switzerland where leaders in the military, science and citizen science, sociology, and technological governance met to consider the threats. • Read more » | 9/15/2019 | Natash Mitchell | Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Radio National | From bioerror to bioterror, Science Friction's Natasha Mitchell was the only journalist at a recent closed NATO biosecurity workshop in Switzerland where leaders in the military, science and citizen science, sociology, and technological governance met to consider the threats. | Todd Kuiken |
Survey Guages Support for Using Gene Drives to Fight PestsMick Kulikowski, Futurity | 9/12/2019People were more apt to support gene drive systems that controlled the spread of the drive, says Zack Brown, assistant professor of agricultural and resource economics at North Carolina State University and the corresponding author of a paper describing the research. • Read more » | 9/12/2019 | Mick Kulikowski | Futurity | People were more apt to support gene drive systems that controlled the spread of the drive, says Zack Brown, assistant professor of agricultural and resource economics at North Carolina State University and the corresponding author of a paper describing the research. | Zack Brown, Mike Jones |
Corn maze open at North Carolina Museum of Art through October, WTVD ABC11 | 8/13/2019RALEIGH (WTVD) — A quarter-acre corn maze is now open at the North Carolina Museum of Art’s Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. The maze called ‘From Teosinte to Tomorrow’ is a conceptual walk through agricultural history. • Read more » | 8/13/2019 | WTVD ABC11 | RALEIGH (WTVD) — A quarter-acre corn maze is now open at the North Carolina Museum of Art’s Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. The maze called ‘From Teosinte to Tomorrow’ is a conceptual walk through agricultural history. | Todd Kuiken, Fred Gould, Patti Mulligan | |
Corn Maze to Open at North Carolina Museum of ArtLauren Bell Issacs, Carolina Parent Magazine | 8/8/2019Ready for fall-ish fun? An art-meets-science corn maze exhibit called "From Teosinte to Tomorrow" is opening in partnership with NC State University Libraries and the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at the North Carolina Museum of Art on Sunday, Aug. 11. • Read more » | 8/8/2019 | Lauren Bell Issacs | Carolina Parent Magazine | Ready for fall-ish fun? An art-meets-science corn maze exhibit called "From Teosinte to Tomorrow" is opening in partnership with NC State University Libraries and the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at the North Carolina Museum of Art on Sunday, Aug. 11. | Todd Kuiken, Fred Gould, Patti Mulligan |
GES Center Awarded Half-Million Dollar Grant to Study Responsible Innovation of Food NanotechnologyPatti Mulligan, NC State CHASS News | 8/2/2019Results from the $499,857 grant include obtaining critical information on responsible innovation practices that can help ensure the sustainability of nanomaterials in food and agricultural applications, identifying stakeholder concerns and highlighting key lessons applicable to novel technologies in food and agriculture sectors more broadly. • Read more » | 8/2/2019 | Patti Mulligan | NC State CHASS News | Results from the $499,857 grant include obtaining critical information on responsible innovation practices that can help ensure the sustainability of nanomaterials in food and agricultural applications, identifying stakeholder concerns and highlighting key lessons applicable to novel technologies in food and agriculture sectors more broadly. | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger |
USDA to biotech: Call your own complianceSteve Suppan, Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy | 7/30/2019USDA, in its desire to maximize trade in GE crops as soon as possible and everywhere, has proposed a rule that would make it exceedingly difficult to assess a GE plant’s risks, even for the “unfamiliar products” that are targeted for USDA paperwork review, when GE product developers decide not to self-determine their compliance with the rule to increase acceptance of their products by foreign regulators in U.S. export targets . The classification of commercial applicant studies and data as “confidential business information” adds to a proposed rule that, as Professor Kuzma writes, “does not inspire public confidence.” • Read more » | 7/30/2019 | Steve Suppan | Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy | USDA, in its desire to maximize trade in GE crops as soon as possible and everywhere, has proposed a rule that would make it exceedingly difficult to assess a GE plant’s risks, even for the “unfamiliar products” that are targeted for USDA paperwork review, when GE product developers decide not to self-determine their compliance with the rule to increase acceptance of their products by foreign regulators in U.S. export targets . The classification of commercial applicant studies and data as “confidential business information” adds to a proposed rule that, as Professor Kuzma writes, “does not inspire public confidence.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Just how sustainable is that synbio startup?Meg Wilcox, GreenBiz | 7/23/2019Todd Kuiken, senior research scholar at the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, disagrees. "It’s not as simple as saying, we’ll just produce this from algae now," he said. "There are impacts, there are winners and losers, all of that needs to be evaluated and put on the table so people can make a decision with all of that information in front of them." • Read more » | 7/23/2019 | Meg Wilcox | GreenBiz | Todd Kuiken, senior research scholar at the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, disagrees. "It’s not as simple as saying, we’ll just produce this from algae now," he said. "There are impacts, there are winners and losers, all of that needs to be evaluated and put on the table so people can make a decision with all of that information in front of them." | Todd Kuiken |
CRISPR conundrum: Strict European court ruling leaves food-testing labs without a planHeidi Ledford, Nature | 7/23/2019European regulators might need to rely on companies to voluntarily share some of that data, says Jennifer Kuzma, a science-policy researcher at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. She suspects that some firms would be willing to do so, to avoid the public scepticism that has plagued genetically modified crops. • Read more » | 7/23/2019 | Heidi Ledford | Nature | European regulators might need to rely on companies to voluntarily share some of that data, says Jennifer Kuzma, a science-policy researcher at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. She suspects that some firms would be willing to do so, to avoid the public scepticism that has plagued genetically modified crops. | Jennifer Kuzma |
NC bees are dying. Would a consumer ban on a pesticide help?Associated Press, CBS 17 | 7/22/2019“The thing that gets glossed over in the discussions of banning neonics is that the pests themselves aren’t going to go away in these farming systems,” said Burrack, who is also an extension specialist. “Something needs to be done to manage them, and that something might become a more toxic pesticide if this one is removed. That needs to be a part of the conversation.” • Read more » | 7/22/2019 | Associated Press | CBS 17 | “The thing that gets glossed over in the discussions of banning neonics is that the pests themselves aren’t going to go away in these farming systems,” said Burrack, who is also an extension specialist. “Something needs to be done to manage them, and that something might become a more toxic pesticide if this one is removed. That needs to be a part of the conversation.” | Hannah Burrack |
Hacking photosynthesis to feed the futureTara Santora, ScienceLine | 7/20/2019Whether gene hacking to improve yields will affect plants’ susceptibility to pests is still unknown, says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. • Read more » | 7/20/2019 | Tara Santora | ScienceLine | Whether gene hacking to improve yields will affect plants’ susceptibility to pests is still unknown, says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Academic Minute: Forest BiotechDoug Lederman, Inside Higher Ed | 7/8/2019Today on the Academic Minute, Jason Delborne, associate professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University, explores whether we can have genetically engineered trees like we do food • Read more » | 7/8/2019 | Doug Lederman | Inside Higher Ed | Today on the Academic Minute, Jason Delborne, associate professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University, explores whether we can have genetically engineered trees like we do food | Jason Delborne |
Can Genetic Engineering Save Our Planet’s Biodiversity?CNR News, NC State | 6/24/2019“New tools for gene editing and strategies such as synthetic gene drives open up novel opportunities for imagining ways that we might ‘engineer’ biology beyond laboratories and agricultural fields,” said Jason Delborne • Read more » | 6/24/2019 | CNR News | NC State | “New tools for gene editing and strategies such as synthetic gene drives open up novel opportunities for imagining ways that we might ‘engineer’ biology beyond laboratories and agricultural fields,” said Jason Delborne | Jason Delborne |
Workshop Report on Gene Drive Mice for Biodiversity Protection on IslandsKatie Barnhill-Dilling, Jason Delborne, GES Center | 6/24/2019The findings will inform ongoing discussions about the governance of gene drive organisms that may one day be released in the environment. These findings will also contribute to ongoing discussions about early engagement with respect to emerging technologies. • Read more » | 6/24/2019 | Katie Barnhill-Dilling, Jason Delborne | GES Center | The findings will inform ongoing discussions about the governance of gene drive organisms that may one day be released in the environment. These findings will also contribute to ongoing discussions about early engagement with respect to emerging technologies. | Jason Delborne |
Biotechnology Oversight Gets an Early Make-Over by Trump’s White House and USDA: Part 1—The Executive OrderJennifer Kuzma, GES Center | 6/18/2019Although the EO states that agencies should “base regulatory decisions on scientific and technical evidence,” it ignores its own advice. • Read more » | 6/18/2019 | Jennifer Kuzma | GES Center | Although the EO states that agencies should “base regulatory decisions on scientific and technical evidence,” it ignores its own advice. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Crispr gene-editing will change the way Americans eat – here's what's comingKaren Weintraub, The Guardian | 5/30/2019[Kuzma] also said that she sees industry making many of the same public relations mistakes with gene editing that they made with GMOs. The industry is fighting labeling and regulation and not being as transparent as it should be about the challenges and shortcomings of gene editing, she said and wrote in a recent article. • Read more » | 5/30/2019 | Karen Weintraub | The Guardian | [Kuzma] also said that she sees industry making many of the same public relations mistakes with gene editing that they made with GMOs. The industry is fighting labeling and regulation and not being as transparent as it should be about the challenges and shortcomings of gene editing, she said and wrote in a recent article. | Jennifer Kuzma |
BiohackersKarl Gruber, Embo Reports | 5/28/2019Having access to the technology and knowledge to create something dangerous is still a long way from actually creating it though. “Releasing a virus with the intent to cause harm is illegal,” commented Todd Kuiken, Senior Research Scholar at the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, North Carolina State University. “It's also not that simple. One would need rather sophisticated equipment to engineer, deploy and, importantly, protect themselves from such a virus (if they were even able to obtain it). All of which would require significant money.” Moreover, as Kuiken pointed out, the DIY community is well aware of such risks. • Read more » | 5/28/2019 | Karl Gruber | Embo Reports | Having access to the technology and knowledge to create something dangerous is still a long way from actually creating it though. “Releasing a virus with the intent to cause harm is illegal,” commented Todd Kuiken, Senior Research Scholar at the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, North Carolina State University. “It's also not that simple. One would need rather sophisticated equipment to engineer, deploy and, importantly, protect themselves from such a virus (if they were even able to obtain it). All of which would require significant money.” Moreover, as Kuiken pointed out, the DIY community is well aware of such risks. | Todd Kuiken |
Synthetic Biology Is Changing What We Eat. Here’s What You Need to Know.Meg Wilcox, Civil Eats | 5/16/2019Burgess’ concerns of farmer’s livelihoods being displaced are not unfounded, according to Todd Kuiken, senior research scholar at the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. “There are winners and losers. All of that needs to be evaluated and put on the table so people can make informed decisions.” • Read more » | 5/16/2019 | Meg Wilcox | Civil Eats | Burgess’ concerns of farmer’s livelihoods being displaced are not unfounded, according to Todd Kuiken, senior research scholar at the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. “There are winners and losers. All of that needs to be evaluated and put on the table so people can make informed decisions.” | Todd Kuiken |
Gene Editing in the Wild: Who Decides—and How?Niki Wilson, Bioscience | 4/4/2019“It's really a system based on the premise that no new laws are needed because there's no new categories of risk with genetically engineered products,” Kuzma says. “It's definitely not designed for things like gene drives.” • Read more » | 4/4/2019 | Niki Wilson | Bioscience | “It's really a system based on the premise that no new laws are needed because there's no new categories of risk with genetically engineered products,” Kuzma says. “It's definitely not designed for things like gene drives.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
2018-19 University Faculty Scholars NamedEmily Packard, NC State News | 2/27/2019GES Executive Committee Member, Dr. Jason A. Delborne, named 2018-19 University Faculty Scholar. • Read more » | 2/27/2019 | Emily Packard | NC State News | GES Executive Committee Member, Dr. Jason A. Delborne, named 2018-19 University Faculty Scholar. | Jason Delborne |
Plan to plant genetically engineered trees throughout US to save dying forestsJosh Gabbatiss, The Independent | 2/16/2019“People are interested in exploring the potential of biotechnology, which could be used to introduce a specific trait unto a tree species or make it resistant or tolerant a disease or pest,” said Dr Jason Delborne, a social scientist at North Carolina State University. While genetic engineering normally takes place within tight restrictions, these GM trees would be created with the express intention of spreading far and wide. • Read more » | 2/16/2019 | Josh Gabbatiss | The Independent | “People are interested in exploring the potential of biotechnology, which could be used to introduce a specific trait unto a tree species or make it resistant or tolerant a disease or pest,” said Dr Jason Delborne, a social scientist at North Carolina State University. While genetic engineering normally takes place within tight restrictions, these GM trees would be created with the express intention of spreading far and wide. | Jason Delborne |
Video: Complete Feb. 1 lecture by geneticist Fred Gould, Responsible Innovation in Genetic Sciences: Past, Present, and FutureCollege of Science, Clemson University | 2/6/2019Fred Gould, a professor of entomology and plant pathology and the William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture at North Carolina State University, spoke on the ethics of genetic manipulations and biotechnology at noon Feb. 1 in the Watt Auditorium. This lecture titled “Responsible Innovation in Genetic Sciences: Past, Present and Future” was open to faculty, staff, and students. Here is a video of his complete lecture. • Read more » | 2/6/2019 | College of Science | Clemson University | Fred Gould, a professor of entomology and plant pathology and the William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture at North Carolina State University, spoke on the ethics of genetic manipulations and biotechnology at noon Feb. 1 in the Watt Auditorium. This lecture titled “Responsible Innovation in Genetic Sciences: Past, Present and Future” was open to faculty, staff, and students. Here is a video of his complete lecture. | Fred Gould |
Companies Use CRISPR to Improve CropsAshley P. Taylor, The Scientist | 2/1/2019Of course, not everyone in the US believes that less regulation is better. As Kuzma writes in a recent review article, most consumers want the government to ensure the safety of genetically modified crops, and 60 percent of biotech experts she surveyed support some kind of pre-market oversight. • Read more » | 2/1/2019 | Ashley P. Taylor | The Scientist | Of course, not everyone in the US believes that less regulation is better. As Kuzma writes in a recent review article, most consumers want the government to ensure the safety of genetically modified crops, and 60 percent of biotech experts she surveyed support some kind of pre-market oversight. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Okay, Let's Settle This—Are GMOs Bad for You or Not?Erin Magner, Well and Good | 1/30/2019“The first generation of genetically engineered foods took a gene from bacteria that killed insects and put it into plants,” [Kuzma] says. “When grown in a field, these plants kill insects on their own, so farmers can use fewer pesticides.” • Read more » | 1/30/2019 | Erin Magner | Well and Good | “The first generation of genetically engineered foods took a gene from bacteria that killed insects and put it into plants,” [Kuzma] says. “When grown in a field, these plants kill insects on their own, so farmers can use fewer pesticides.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Gene Drives Work in Mice (if They’re Female)John Rennie and Jordana Cepelewicz, Quanta | 1/24/2019Fred Gould, an entomologist and evolutionary biologist at North Carolina State University, likens gene drives to the fictional substance ice-nine in Kurt Vonnegut’s novel Cat’s Cradle: a bizarre form of ice that freezes all other water it touches. Gene drives spread fast because they are sets of genetic elements that spontaneously copy themselves from a maternal chromosome to a matching paternal one or vice versa. • Read more » | 1/24/2019 | John Rennie and Jordana Cepelewicz | Quanta | Fred Gould, an entomologist and evolutionary biologist at North Carolina State University, likens gene drives to the fictional substance ice-nine in Kurt Vonnegut’s novel Cat’s Cradle: a bizarre form of ice that freezes all other water it touches. Gene drives spread fast because they are sets of genetic elements that spontaneously copy themselves from a maternal chromosome to a matching paternal one or vice versa. | Fred Gould |
Tempering Tech with Collective WisdomNatalie Kofler, Earth Island Journal | 1/21/2019Jennifer Kuzma, the co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State has written extensively on this topic. She argues that one reason we are witnessing immense public pushback over GMO foods is because societal values are not considered when regulatory decisions are made in the US. • Read more » | 1/21/2019 | Natalie Kofler | Earth Island Journal | Jennifer Kuzma, the co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State has written extensively on this topic. She argues that one reason we are witnessing immense public pushback over GMO foods is because societal values are not considered when regulatory decisions are made in the US. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Can genetic engineering save disappearing forests?Jason A. Delborne, The Conversation | 1/18/2019Which would reduce wildness more – the introduction of a biotech tree or the eradication of an important tree species? There are no right or wrong answers to these questions, but they remind us of the complexity of decisions to use technology to enhance “nature.” • Read more » | 1/18/2019 | Jason A. Delborne | The Conversation | Which would reduce wildness more – the introduction of a biotech tree or the eradication of an important tree species? There are no right or wrong answers to these questions, but they remind us of the complexity of decisions to use technology to enhance “nature.” | Jason Delborne |
Forest Health and Biotechnology Report, Webinar, Press Release, and Slides PostedOffice of News and Public Information, National Academy of Sciences | 1/15/2019Biotechnology has the potential to help mitigate threats to North American forests from insects and pathogens through the introduction of pest-resistant traits to forest trees. However, many gaps in knowledge remain, particularly related to tree genetics, effects on the environment, and the public’s understanding of the technology. The report examines the potential of biotechnology to mitigate threats to forest tree health; identifies the ecological, ethical, and social implications of deploying biotechnology in forests, and develops a research agenda to address the knowledge gaps.Download the Report | Report Highlights | Press Release | Presentation Slides | Watch the webinar recording below: • Read more » | 1/15/2019 | Office of News and Public Information | National Academy of Sciences | Biotechnology has the potential to help mitigate threats to North American forests from insects and pathogens through the introduction of pest-resistant traits to forest trees. However, many gaps in knowledge remain, particularly related to tree genetics, effects on the environment, and the public’s understanding of the technology. The report examines the potential of biotechnology to mitigate threats to forest tree health; identifies the ecological, ethical, and social implications of deploying biotechnology in forests, and develops a research agenda to address the knowledge gaps.Download the Report | Report Highlights | Press Release | Presentation Slides | Watch the webinar recording below: | Jason Delborne |
Post-normal' science requires unorthodox communication strategies, study saysDavid Tenenbaum, Phys.org | 1/14/2019The new analysis grew from the Third Sackler Colloquium on The Science of Science Communication, and was performed by Brossard, Pam Belluck, a science journalist at The New York Times, and Fred Gould, a professor of agriculture with a specialty in entomology at North Carolina State University. "Our aim," the authors write, "is therefore to use our collective experiences and knowledge to highlight how the current debate about gene drives could benefit from lessons learned from other contexts and sound communication approaches involving multiple actors." • Read more » | 1/14/2019 | David Tenenbaum | Phys.org | The new analysis grew from the Third Sackler Colloquium on The Science of Science Communication, and was performed by Brossard, Pam Belluck, a science journalist at The New York Times, and Fred Gould, a professor of agriculture with a specialty in entomology at North Carolina State University. "Our aim," the authors write, "is therefore to use our collective experiences and knowledge to highlight how the current debate about gene drives could benefit from lessons learned from other contexts and sound communication approaches involving multiple actors." | Fred Gould |
Biotech Could Modify Trees to Protect Against PestsJohn Fialka, Scientific American | 1/10/2019In a press conference on Tuesday, Jason Delborne, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University, noted that most studies on using biotechnology to protect forests have been done in Canada and Europe. Relatively little work is underway in the United States. He and other members of the panel stressed that more public funds are needed to expand tree breeding programs and the use of biotechnological tools such as genetic editing... • Read more » | 1/10/2019 | John Fialka | Scientific American | In a press conference on Tuesday, Jason Delborne, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University, noted that most studies on using biotechnology to protect forests have been done in Canada and Europe. Relatively little work is underway in the United States. He and other members of the panel stressed that more public funds are needed to expand tree breeding programs and the use of biotechnological tools such as genetic editing... | Jason Delborne |
HIGHLIGHTS - Forest Health and Biotechnology: Possibilities and Considerations ReportSusan E. Offutt, Vikram E. Chhatre, Jason A. Delborne, et al., National Academies of Science | 1/8/2019COMMITTEE ON THE POTENTIAL FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY TO ADDRESS FOREST HEALTH: Susan E. Offutt (Chair), U.S. Government Accountability Office (retired); Vikram E. Chhatre, University of Wyoming; Jason A. Delborne, North Carolina State University; Stephen DiFazio, West Virginia University; Doria R. Gordon, Environmental Defense Fund; Inés Ibáñez, University of Michigan; Gregory Jaffe, Center for Science in the Public Interest; • Read more » | 1/8/2019 | Susan E. Offutt, Vikram E. Chhatre, Jason A. Delborne, et al. | National Academies of Science | COMMITTEE ON THE POTENTIAL FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY TO ADDRESS FOREST HEALTH: Susan E. Offutt (Chair), U.S. Government Accountability Office (retired); Vikram E. Chhatre, University of Wyoming; Jason A. Delborne, North Carolina State University; Stephen DiFazio, West Virginia University; Doria R. Gordon, Environmental Defense Fund; Inés Ibáñez, University of Michigan; Gregory Jaffe, Center for Science in the Public Interest; | Jason Delborne, Ronald Sederoff |
Gene engineers make super-size plants that are 40% largerAntonio Regalado, MIT Technology Review | 1/3/2019Heike Sederoff, a plant scientist at NC State who has carried out related laboratory studies, describes the new report, published in the journal Science, as the first time such large gains have been seen in a field trial of this type. “It confirms the potential for real agricultural benefits,” she says. • Read more » | 1/3/2019 | Antonio Regalado | MIT Technology Review | Heike Sederoff, a plant scientist at NC State who has carried out related laboratory studies, describes the new report, published in the journal Science, as the first time such large gains have been seen in a field trial of this type. “It confirms the potential for real agricultural benefits,” she says. | Heike Sederoff |
Science is racing to stop another CRISPR baby from being bornJonathan O'Callaghan, Wired | 12/18/2018“I think it’s a matter of a decade or so when it could become very routine and easy to do,” says Jennifer Kuzma, a genetic engineering expert at North Carolina State University. • Read more » | 12/18/2018 | Jonathan O'Callaghan | Wired | “I think it’s a matter of a decade or so when it could become very routine and easy to do,” says Jennifer Kuzma, a genetic engineering expert at North Carolina State University. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Gene-edited farm animals are coming. Will we eat them?Carolyn Y. Johnson, Washington Post | 12/17/2018“We’re at this inflection point in society, where gene editing is really taking off, and now is the time we could have a more sustained public conversation about how we want it used in our world and how we don’t want it to be used,” said Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “All the polls indicate that people are less comfortable with animal biotechnology than plant biotechnology… A regulatory system cannot be based 100 percent on science or scientific risk, and values come into play when setting the standards.” • Read more » | 12/17/2018 | Carolyn Y. Johnson | Washington Post | “We’re at this inflection point in society, where gene editing is really taking off, and now is the time we could have a more sustained public conversation about how we want it used in our world and how we don’t want it to be used,” said Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “All the polls indicate that people are less comfortable with animal biotechnology than plant biotechnology… A regulatory system cannot be based 100 percent on science or scientific risk, and values come into play when setting the standards.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Transparency in science: Talking about the potential of gene editing for conservationBen Creagh, CSIRO ECOS | 12/11/2018Dr. Jason Delborne, Associate Professor of Science, Policy and Society at North Carolina State University, dislikes the term ‘social license to operate’. “It has some assumptions built in that are problematic. It invokes the metaphor of a government licence, which is like a one-time permit. It suggests that once you get it, you’re off and running. And what I’m interested in is the kind of engagement that’s ongoing. There is no particular moment in time when you achieve social license. • Read more » | 12/11/2018 | Ben Creagh | CSIRO ECOS | Dr. Jason Delborne, Associate Professor of Science, Policy and Society at North Carolina State University, dislikes the term ‘social license to operate’. “It has some assumptions built in that are problematic. It invokes the metaphor of a government licence, which is like a one-time permit. It suggests that once you get it, you’re off and running. And what I’m interested in is the kind of engagement that’s ongoing. There is no particular moment in time when you achieve social license. | Jason Delborne, John Godwin |
Debate rages on first gene-edited babies, drives to eliminate diseasesChukwuma Muanya, The Guardian | 12/5/2018“The member states are hearing and thinking that these are sitting in the lab ready to be released, and that is not the case,” says Kuiken. “Nothing I have seen suggested these things are literally ready to go out the door tomorrow. We could have better decisions if everyone knew they could take a breath.” • Read more » | 12/5/2018 | Chukwuma Muanya | The Guardian | “The member states are hearing and thinking that these are sitting in the lab ready to be released, and that is not the case,” says Kuiken. “Nothing I have seen suggested these things are literally ready to go out the door tomorrow. We could have better decisions if everyone knew they could take a breath.” | Todd Kuiken |
UN treaty agrees to limit gene drives but rejects a moratoriumEwan Callaway, Nature | 11/29/2018Todd Kuiken, a biotechnology-policy specialist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who is part of an expert panel that advises the CBD on gene drives, says that it will take time to parse the language agreed today. The text must be interpreted by the countries that will ultimately license any gene-drive release — and thus he sees no quick end to the debate. • Read more » | 11/29/2018 | Ewan Callaway | Nature | Todd Kuiken, a biotechnology-policy specialist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who is part of an expert panel that advises the CBD on gene drives, says that it will take time to parse the language agreed today. The text must be interpreted by the countries that will ultimately license any gene-drive release — and thus he sees no quick end to the debate. | Todd Kuiken |
Kudos to Kuzma: Distinguished Professor Named AAAS FellowLauren Kirkpatrick, NC State Humanities and Social Sciences News | 11/28/2018Jennifer Kuzma has been elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Kuzma is the college’s Goodnight-North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Distinguished Professor in Social Sciences. She co-directs NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center. • Read more » | 11/28/2018 | Lauren Kirkpatrick | NC State Humanities and Social Sciences News | Jennifer Kuzma has been elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Kuzma is the college’s Goodnight-North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Distinguished Professor in Social Sciences. She co-directs NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Science is racing to stop another CRISPR baby from being bornJonathan O'Callaghan, WIRED U.K. | 11/28/2018He’s research has highlighted that there is not really a way to stop rogue actors in some countries doing experiments like this. And as the technique becomes easier and easier, we will almost certainly see a rise in the amount of gene-editing take place. “I think it’s a matter of a decade or so when it could become very routine and easy to do,” says Jennifer Kuzma, a genetic engineering expert at North Carolina State University. • Read more » | 11/28/2018 | Jonathan O'Callaghan | WIRED U.K. | He’s research has highlighted that there is not really a way to stop rogue actors in some countries doing experiments like this. And as the technique becomes easier and easier, we will almost certainly see a rise in the amount of gene-editing take place. “I think it’s a matter of a decade or so when it could become very routine and easy to do,” says Jennifer Kuzma, a genetic engineering expert at North Carolina State University. | Jennifer Kuzma |
What’s the Right Way to Regulate Gene-Edited Crops?Kenneth Miller, Leaps Magazine | 11/16/2018Yet some experts suggest that the broadly permissive American approach and the broadly restrictive EU policy are equally flawed. “What’s behind these regulatory decisions is not science,” says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, a former advisor to the World Economic Forum, who has researched and written extensively on governance issues in biotechnology. “It’s politics, economics, and culture.” • Read more » | 11/16/2018 | Kenneth Miller | Leaps Magazine | Yet some experts suggest that the broadly permissive American approach and the broadly restrictive EU policy are equally flawed. “What’s behind these regulatory decisions is not science,” says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, a former advisor to the World Economic Forum, who has researched and written extensively on governance issues in biotechnology. “It’s politics, economics, and culture.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Ban on ‘gene drives’ is back on the UN’s agenda — worrying scientistsEwan Callaway, Nature | 11/15/2018One probable outcome of the meeting is an outline for future work on policy issues raised by organisms carrying gene drives, says Todd Kuiken, a biotechnology-policy specialist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, who is also on the CBD’s synthetic-biology expert panel. • Read more » | 11/15/2018 | Ewan Callaway | Nature | One probable outcome of the meeting is an outline for future work on policy issues raised by organisms carrying gene drives, says Todd Kuiken, a biotechnology-policy specialist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, who is also on the CBD’s synthetic-biology expert panel. | Todd Kuiken |
The era of gene-edited food is upon usAssociated Press, New York Post | 11/14/2018“Most gene-edited plants and animals are probably going to be just fine to eat. But you’re only going to do yourself a disservice in the long run if you hide behind the terminology,” Kuzma said. • Read more » | 11/14/2018 | Associated Press | New York Post | “Most gene-edited plants and animals are probably going to be just fine to eat. But you’re only going to do yourself a disservice in the long run if you hide behind the terminology,” Kuzma said. | Jennifer Kuzma |
United Nations considers a test ban on evolution-warping gene drivesAntonio Regalado, MIT Technology Review | 11/13/2018According to Kuiken, the UN is unlikely to endorse a ban, because that requires consensus, and some countries with biotech industries are expected to oppose the measure. But the UN, which takes what’s called a “precautionary” approach to new technologies, has previously adopted restrictive language on some technologies seen as affecting the planet as a whole, including certain biotech seeds and geoengineering techniques. • Read more » | 11/13/2018 | Antonio Regalado | MIT Technology Review | According to Kuiken, the UN is unlikely to endorse a ban, because that requires consensus, and some countries with biotech industries are expected to oppose the measure. But the UN, which takes what’s called a “precautionary” approach to new technologies, has previously adopted restrictive language on some technologies seen as affecting the planet as a whole, including certain biotech seeds and geoengineering techniques. | Todd Kuiken |
Counting The Bugs And Bacteria, You're 'Never Home Alone' (And That's OK)Terry Gross, NPR's Fresh Air | 11/12/2018You may be shocked by what's living in your home — the bacteria, the fungi, viruses, parasites and insects. Probably many more organisms than you imagined. "Every surface; every bit of air; every bit of water in your home is alive," says Rob Dunn, a professor of applied ecology at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. "The average house has thousands of species. • Read more » | 11/12/2018 | Terry Gross | NPR's Fresh Air | You may be shocked by what's living in your home — the bacteria, the fungi, viruses, parasites and insects. Probably many more organisms than you imagined. "Every surface; every bit of air; every bit of water in your home is alive," says Rob Dunn, a professor of applied ecology at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. "The average house has thousands of species. | Rob Dunn |
Editing Nature: Local roots of global governanceNatalie Kofler, James P. Collins, Jennifer Kuzma, et al, Science | 11/2/2018Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Goodnight-NC GSK Foundation Distinguished Professor and Co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, was one of the lead authors on an interdisciplinary team calling for global oversight of environmental gene editing in this Science Policy Forum • Read more » | 11/2/2018 | Natalie Kofler, James P. Collins, Jennifer Kuzma, et al | Science | Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Goodnight-NC GSK Foundation Distinguished Professor and Co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, was one of the lead authors on an interdisciplinary team calling for global oversight of environmental gene editing in this Science Policy Forum | Jennifer Kuzma |
Engaging community with humilityJason Delborne, Adam Kokotovich, S. Kathleen Barnhill-Dilling, Science | 11/2/2018In his Policy Forum “Building an evidence base for stakeholder engagement” (10 August, p. 554), J. V. Lavery rightly proposes additional reporting and evidence collection to understand best practices for community and stakeholder engagement. However, we are concerned that he framed stakeholder engagement too narrowly. • Read more » | 11/2/2018 | Jason Delborne, Adam Kokotovich, S. Kathleen Barnhill-Dilling | Science | In his Policy Forum “Building an evidence base for stakeholder engagement” (10 August, p. 554), J. V. Lavery rightly proposes additional reporting and evidence collection to understand best practices for community and stakeholder engagement. However, we are concerned that he framed stakeholder engagement too narrowly. | Jason Delborne, Adam Kokotovich, Katie Barnhill |
Ep. 29 - Biosafety and Biosecurity in DIYbio with Todd KuikenRyan O'Shea, Future Grind | 10/13/2018In this installment of the Future Grind podcast host Ryan O’Shea speaks with Todd Kuiken, Senior Research Scholar at the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. In this role Todd travels the world to study biosafety and biosecurity within the do-it-yourself biology community. Todd previously spent time in Washington D.C., leading both the Wilson Center’s Synthetic Biology Project, and their the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies. They discuss his collaboration with DIYbio.org, safety within citizen science, the handling of public perception, what is holding DIYbio back, and more! • Read more » | 10/13/2018 | Ryan O'Shea | Future Grind | In this installment of the Future Grind podcast host Ryan O’Shea speaks with Todd Kuiken, Senior Research Scholar at the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. In this role Todd travels the world to study biosafety and biosecurity within the do-it-yourself biology community. Todd previously spent time in Washington D.C., leading both the Wilson Center’s Synthetic Biology Project, and their the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies. They discuss his collaboration with DIYbio.org, safety within citizen science, the handling of public perception, what is holding DIYbio back, and more! | Todd Kuiken |
Scientists: US military program could be seen as bioweaponCandice Choi and Seth Borenstein, Associated Press | 10/4/2018North Carolina State University entomologist Fred Gould, who chaired a National Academy of Sciences panel on genetically modified food and is not part of the DARPA research, said too many biological interactions would need to be perfectly manipulated, so the chance of it working is “pretty close to zero.” • Read more » | 10/4/2018 | Candice Choi and Seth Borenstein | Associated Press | North Carolina State University entomologist Fred Gould, who chaired a National Academy of Sciences panel on genetically modified food and is not part of the DARPA research, said too many biological interactions would need to be perfectly manipulated, so the chance of it working is “pretty close to zero.” | Fred Gould |
Scathing Report Accuses the Pentagon of Developing an Agricultural BioweaponGeorge Dvorsky, Gizmodo | 10/4/2018“The social, ethical, political, and ecological implications of producing HEGAAs are significant and worthy of the same level of attention as exploring the science underpinning the potential technology,” Delborne told Gizmodo. “The authors argue persuasively that specifying insects as the preferred delivery mechanism for HEGAAs is poorly justified by visions of agricultural applications. The infrastructure and expertise required for spraying agricultural fields—at least in the U.S. context—is well established, and this delivery mechanism would offer greater control over the potential spread of a HEGAA.” • Read more » | 10/4/2018 | George Dvorsky | Gizmodo | “The social, ethical, political, and ecological implications of producing HEGAAs are significant and worthy of the same level of attention as exploring the science underpinning the potential technology,” Delborne told Gizmodo. “The authors argue persuasively that specifying insects as the preferred delivery mechanism for HEGAAs is poorly justified by visions of agricultural applications. The infrastructure and expertise required for spraying agricultural fields—at least in the U.S. context—is well established, and this delivery mechanism would offer greater control over the potential spread of a HEGAA.” | Jason Delborne |
Regulate This!: How Genetic Engineering is RegulatedAlex McKiernan, Science for the Rest of Us Pod | 10/3/2018Dr. Jennifer Kuzma from NC State walks us through the complicated world of regulations that control how genetically engineering plants and animals make into our world and onto our plates. Really interesting conversation with broad implications for how society regulates complex technologies. • Read more » | 10/3/2018 | Alex McKiernan | Science for the Rest of Us Pod | Dr. Jennifer Kuzma from NC State walks us through the complicated world of regulations that control how genetically engineering plants and animals make into our world and onto our plates. Really interesting conversation with broad implications for how society regulates complex technologies. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Here's the Plan to End Malaria with Crispr-Edited MosquitoesMegan Molteni, WIRED | 9/24/2018“There are some unique dimensions to this that put us in uncharted territory,” says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. One of the issues is that gene drives are designed to spread. That makes it next to impossible to do confined field trials, as is traditional for genetically modified crops. • Read more » | 9/24/2018 | Megan Molteni | WIRED | “There are some unique dimensions to this that put us in uncharted territory,” says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. One of the issues is that gene drives are designed to spread. That makes it next to impossible to do confined field trials, as is traditional for genetically modified crops. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Common weed killer—believed harmless to animals—may be harming bees worldwideWarren Cornwall, Science | 9/24/2018“This is really critical,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who was not involved in the work. The study challenges the conventional wisdom that animals are immune to glyphosate because it targets a cellular mechanism particular to plants and some bacteria. “I was surprised.” • Read more » | 9/24/2018 | Warren Cornwall | Science | “This is really critical,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who was not involved in the work. The study challenges the conventional wisdom that animals are immune to glyphosate because it targets a cellular mechanism particular to plants and some bacteria. “I was surprised.” | Fred Gould |
Malaria and CRISPR: Gene-editing causes complete collapse of mosquito population in 'major breakthrough' for disease eradicationHannah Osborne, Newsweek | 9/24/2018Fred Gould, distinguished professor of entomology at North Carolina State University, who was not involved in the study, said the results were very promising. “This is a big step forward,” he told Newsweek. “There was huge excitement over using CRISPR for gene drive to fight malaria, but in the first studies the mosquitoes evolved resistance to the drive very quickly. The innovative approach used in this study suggests a way around the problem of resistance. If the drive mechanism functions under diverse environmental conditions and resistance doesn’t evolve when this approach is used on a larger experimental scale, this will be a major breakthrough on the road to suppression of malaria.” • Read more » | 9/24/2018 | Hannah Osborne | Newsweek | Fred Gould, distinguished professor of entomology at North Carolina State University, who was not involved in the study, said the results were very promising. “This is a big step forward,” he told Newsweek. “There was huge excitement over using CRISPR for gene drive to fight malaria, but in the first studies the mosquitoes evolved resistance to the drive very quickly. The innovative approach used in this study suggests a way around the problem of resistance. If the drive mechanism functions under diverse environmental conditions and resistance doesn’t evolve when this approach is used on a larger experimental scale, this will be a major breakthrough on the road to suppression of malaria.” | Fred Gould |
Changing the Landscape of Graduate EducationDee Shore, NC State News | 9/6/2018With support from NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the university provost, plus a $3 million grant awarded this week by the National Science Foundation’s Research Traineeship (NRT) program, center leaders and other university faculty members plan to implement a program called AgBioFEWS, or Agricultural Biotechnology in Our Evolving Food, Energy and Water Systems. • Read more » | 9/6/2018 | Dee Shore | NC State News | With support from NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the university provost, plus a $3 million grant awarded this week by the National Science Foundation’s Research Traineeship (NRT) program, center leaders and other university faculty members plan to implement a program called AgBioFEWS, or Agricultural Biotechnology in Our Evolving Food, Energy and Water Systems. | Fred Gould |
Processed Food: Genetically modified or gene-edited: Is there a difference?, Sarasota Herald Tribune | 8/28/2018Caitlin Dewey • Read more » | 8/28/2018 | Sarasota Herald Tribune | Caitlin Dewey | Jennifer Kuzma | |
Building bioethics into the future of life sciences innovationRick Mullin, Chemical & Engineering News | 8/27/2018Scientists who refuse to engage with ethicists and the public will find themselves at a disadvantage. “Just because you are a scientist and have invented something doesn’t mean you have authority over it,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist and co-director of the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. He points to the National Academies report’s advocacy of participatory decision-making. Resistance from the science community based on ethicists and the public not fully understanding the science wears thin, he says. “You are a pretty poor scientist if you can’t explain what these things are about to an ethicist,” he says. • Read more » | 8/27/2018 | Rick Mullin | Chemical & Engineering News | Scientists who refuse to engage with ethicists and the public will find themselves at a disadvantage. “Just because you are a scientist and have invented something doesn’t mean you have authority over it,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist and co-director of the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. He points to the National Academies report’s advocacy of participatory decision-making. Resistance from the science community based on ethicists and the public not fully understanding the science wears thin, he says. “You are a pretty poor scientist if you can’t explain what these things are about to an ethicist,” he says. | Fred Gould |
Weed killer in your cereal? Maybe, but don't panicMaggie Fox, NBC News | 8/17/2018“With all things, it is the level of exposure that matters,” said Fred Gould, head of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “The poison is in the concentration.” • Read more » | 8/17/2018 | Maggie Fox | NBC News | “With all things, it is the level of exposure that matters,” said Fred Gould, head of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “The poison is in the concentration.” | Fred Gould |
The Future of Food: Scientists have found a fast and cheap way to edit your food's DNACaitlin Dewey, Washington Post | 8/11/2018“We need a mandatory regulatory process: not just for scientific reasons, but for consumer and public confidence,” Kuzma said. “I think the vast majority of gene-edited foods are going to be as safe as their conventionally bred counterparts. But I don’t buy into the argument that’s true all the time for every crop.” • Read more » | 8/11/2018 | Caitlin Dewey | Washington Post | “We need a mandatory regulatory process: not just for scientific reasons, but for consumer and public confidence,” Kuzma said. “I think the vast majority of gene-edited foods are going to be as safe as their conventionally bred counterparts. But I don’t buy into the argument that’s true all the time for every crop.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
EU ruling on gene-edited plants and GMOs is more status quo than disruptiveTodd Kuiken, GES Center | 8/6/2018OPINION | The recent European Union ruling regarding gene-edited plants and GMO crops is more status quo than ground breaking or disruptive. • Read more » | 8/6/2018 | Todd Kuiken | GES Center | OPINION | The recent European Union ruling regarding gene-edited plants and GMO crops is more status quo than ground breaking or disruptive. | Todd Kuiken |
The CRISPR whispererMarla Vacek Broadfoot, NC State Alumni | 8/2/2018Rodolphe Barrangou ’00 MS, ’04 Ph.D., felt out of place. There he was, his sleek 6-foot-2 frame tucked into a new tuxedo, mingling at an opulent hall at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. Champagne was poured, awards were given, speeches were made. At one point, he found himself posing for pictures with Anthony Fauci, a renowned HIV/AIDS researcher. “It’s a fluke!” Barrangou recalls thinking at the time, no doubt struck with a bout of imposter syndrome. “I’m here with Tony Fauci! He’s saved millions of lives. What have I done?” • Read more » | 8/2/2018 | Marla Vacek Broadfoot | NC State Alumni | Rodolphe Barrangou ’00 MS, ’04 Ph.D., felt out of place. There he was, his sleek 6-foot-2 frame tucked into a new tuxedo, mingling at an opulent hall at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. Champagne was poured, awards were given, speeches were made. At one point, he found himself posing for pictures with Anthony Fauci, a renowned HIV/AIDS researcher. “It’s a fluke!” Barrangou recalls thinking at the time, no doubt struck with a bout of imposter syndrome. “I’m here with Tony Fauci! He’s saved millions of lives. What have I done?” | Rodolphe Barrangou |
What Is a Genetically Modified Crop? A European Ruling Sows ConfusionCarl Zimmer, New York Times | 7/27/2018In Europe, plants created with gene-editing technologies will be stringently regulated as G.M.O.’s. But older crops whose DNA has been altered will be left alone. • Read more » | 7/27/2018 | Carl Zimmer | New York Times | In Europe, plants created with gene-editing technologies will be stringently regulated as G.M.O.’s. But older crops whose DNA has been altered will be left alone. | Jennifer Kuzma |
This Man Rewrites the Genetic Code of AnimalsAki Ito, Bloomberg | 7/19/2018Kuzma also says there needs to be a broader conversation about the underlying ethics of the technology. “With these genetic engineering techniques becoming easier to implement and more powerful too, we’re at a critical point where things could change in the natural world,” she says. • Read more » | 7/19/2018 | Aki Ito | Bloomberg | Kuzma also says there needs to be a broader conversation about the underlying ethics of the technology. “With these genetic engineering techniques becoming easier to implement and more powerful too, we’re at a critical point where things could change in the natural world,” she says. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Pesticide Resistance Arms RaceTracey Peake, NC State News Podcast | 6/29/2018In this episode we talk with Fred Gould, William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture and Life Sciences, about the rising rates of herbicide and pesticide resistance, the current state of the resistance arms race and what we need to do in the future to protect our crops and human health from resistant pests. • Read more » | 6/29/2018 | Tracey Peake | NC State News Podcast | In this episode we talk with Fred Gould, William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture and Life Sciences, about the rising rates of herbicide and pesticide resistance, the current state of the resistance arms race and what we need to do in the future to protect our crops and human health from resistant pests. | Fred Gould |
GMO grass is creeping across OregonJulia Rosen, High Country News | 6/25/2018To critics, the case laid bare glaring weaknesses in the country’s oversight of genetically engineered, or GE, crops. While biotechnology’s defenders say the process is already overly rigorous, others have long argued that regulations, which haven’t changed significantly since 1987, don’t do enough to protect agriculture and the environment. Neither the USDA nor any government agency must weigh the full social, economic and ecological impacts of GE products, says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “There’s really no place that’s looking at this broadly from a risk-benefit perspective.” • Read more » | 6/25/2018 | Julia Rosen | High Country News | To critics, the case laid bare glaring weaknesses in the country’s oversight of genetically engineered, or GE, crops. While biotechnology’s defenders say the process is already overly rigorous, others have long argued that regulations, which haven’t changed significantly since 1987, don’t do enough to protect agriculture and the environment. Neither the USDA nor any government agency must weigh the full social, economic and ecological impacts of GE products, says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “There’s really no place that’s looking at this broadly from a risk-benefit perspective.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Trump’s plan to reshuffle government strikes familiar notesInsider Staff Report, Science | 6/21/2018Jennifer Kuzma, a social scientist who co-directs the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, likes the idea—not a new one—of housing food safety within one agency but questions whether USDA’s mission to promote agriculture industry makes it a good fit. An agency dedicated to protecting public health or the environment would make more sense, she says. • Read more » | 6/21/2018 | Insider Staff Report | Science | Jennifer Kuzma, a social scientist who co-directs the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, likes the idea—not a new one—of housing food safety within one agency but questions whether USDA’s mission to promote agriculture industry makes it a good fit. An agency dedicated to protecting public health or the environment would make more sense, she says. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Weeds Are Winning in the War against Herbicide ResistanceBrooke Borel, Scientific American | 6/18/2018Although academics and companies are looking for technical alternatives such as sprays made from biological compounds, a recent review by researchers at North Carolina State University cautions that society may not be able to science its way out of this thorny problem. There is a “considerable chance,” the authors write, “that the evolution of pest resistance will outpace human innovation.” Addressing the situation requires a collective effort between funding agencies, regulators, farmers and others, the authors add in the review, published in Science. “We need to approach things from more than a single technical fix,” says co-author Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State. • Read more » | 6/18/2018 | Brooke Borel | Scientific American | Although academics and companies are looking for technical alternatives such as sprays made from biological compounds, a recent review by researchers at North Carolina State University cautions that society may not be able to science its way out of this thorny problem. There is a “considerable chance,” the authors write, “that the evolution of pest resistance will outpace human innovation.” Addressing the situation requires a collective effort between funding agencies, regulators, farmers and others, the authors add in the review, published in Science. “We need to approach things from more than a single technical fix,” says co-author Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Biohackers are about open-access to science, not DIY pandemics. Stop misrepresenting usDaniel Grushkin, Stat News | 6/4/2018Todd Kuiken, a researcher at North Carolina State University, and I combatted these myths in “Seven Myths and Realities about Do-It-Yourself Biology,” a report that was published by the Woodrow Wilson Center. • Read more » | 6/4/2018 | Daniel Grushkin | Stat News | Todd Kuiken, a researcher at North Carolina State University, and I combatted these myths in “Seven Myths and Realities about Do-It-Yourself Biology,” a report that was published by the Woodrow Wilson Center. | Todd Kuiken |
Rewriting Life: The Promise And Peril Of Editing Your DNALeslie Stahl, World Science Festival | 6/1/2018Watch: GES Co-director Fred Gould discussing the origins of agricultural genetic engineering, CRISPR, & using the technology to combat diseases like malaria • Read more » | 6/1/2018 | Leslie Stahl | World Science Festival | Watch: GES Co-director Fred Gould discussing the origins of agricultural genetic engineering, CRISPR, & using the technology to combat diseases like malaria | Fred Gould |
DIY Biohacking, with Todd KuikenAndrew Maynard and Heather Ross, Future Out Loud podcast | 5/21/2018Andrew Maynard and Heather Ross talk with senior researcher and DIY Bio expert Dr. Todd Kuiken at the 2018 Governance of Emerging Technologies and Science conference, about the present and future of DIY bio communities in the U.S. and worldwide. • Read more » | 5/21/2018 | Andrew Maynard and Heather Ross | Future Out Loud podcast | Andrew Maynard and Heather Ross talk with senior researcher and DIY Bio expert Dr. Todd Kuiken at the 2018 Governance of Emerging Technologies and Science conference, about the present and future of DIY bio communities in the U.S. and worldwide. | Todd Kuiken |
Wicked evolution: Can we address the sociobiological dilemma of pesticide resistance?Fred Gould, Zachary S. Brown, Jennifer Kuzma, Science | 5/18/2018Resistance to insecticides and herbicides has cost billions of U.S. dollars in the agricultural sector and could result in millions of lives lost to insect-vectored diseases. We mostly continue to use pesticides as if resistance is a temporary issue that will be addressed by commercialization of new pesticides with novel modes of action. However, current evidence suggests that insect and weed evolution may outstrip our ability to replace outmoded chemicals and other control mechanisms. To avoid this outcome, we must address the mix of ecological, genetic, economic, and sociopolitical factors that prevent implementation of sustainable pest management practices. We offer an ambitious proposition. • Read more » | 5/18/2018 | Fred Gould, Zachary S. Brown, Jennifer Kuzma | Science | Resistance to insecticides and herbicides has cost billions of U.S. dollars in the agricultural sector and could result in millions of lives lost to insect-vectored diseases. We mostly continue to use pesticides as if resistance is a temporary issue that will be addressed by commercialization of new pesticides with novel modes of action. However, current evidence suggests that insect and weed evolution may outstrip our ability to replace outmoded chemicals and other control mechanisms. To avoid this outcome, we must address the mix of ecological, genetic, economic, and sociopolitical factors that prevent implementation of sustainable pest management practices. We offer an ambitious proposition. | Fred Gould, Zack Brown, Jennifer Kuzma |
What Happens If We Run Out? Pesticide Resistance Needs Attention, Large-Scale StudyFred Gould, Mick Kulikowski, NC State News | 5/17/2018“What is the impact on people if these herbicides and pesticides run out?” said Fred Gould, William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture at NC State and the corresponding author of the paper. “Resistance to pesticides is rising in critical weed and insect species, threatening our ability to harness these pests. Weed species have evolved resistance to every class of herbicide in use, and more than 550 arthropods have resistance to at least one pesticide.” • Read more » | 5/17/2018 | Fred Gould, Mick Kulikowski | NC State News | “What is the impact on people if these herbicides and pesticides run out?” said Fred Gould, William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture at NC State and the corresponding author of the paper. “Resistance to pesticides is rising in critical weed and insect species, threatening our ability to harness these pests. Weed species have evolved resistance to every class of herbicide in use, and more than 550 arthropods have resistance to at least one pesticide.” | Fred Gould, Zack Brown, Jennifer Kuzma |
As lab-grown meat advances, U.S. lawmakers call for regulationKelly Servick, Science | 5/10/2018The regulatory conundrum facing lab-grown meat—like debates about oversight of genetic engineering—are signs of a regulatory system that hasn’t kept pace with technological advances, says Todd Kuiken, an environmental scientist who studies biotech regulation at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. “We’re in crazy land now. … There’s so much coming at us, that it’s really hard to keep track of all the new products and changing technologies,” he says. “And now we’re getting actual products ready to go and no one’s quite sure what to do with them.” • Read more » | 5/10/2018 | Kelly Servick | Science | The regulatory conundrum facing lab-grown meat—like debates about oversight of genetic engineering—are signs of a regulatory system that hasn’t kept pace with technological advances, says Todd Kuiken, an environmental scientist who studies biotech regulation at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. “We’re in crazy land now. … There’s so much coming at us, that it’s really hard to keep track of all the new products and changing technologies,” he says. “And now we’re getting actual products ready to go and no one’s quite sure what to do with them.” | Todd Kuiken |
NC State Recognizes Exceptional FacultyEmily Packard, NC State Provost News | 5/1/2018Jennifer Kuzma: Recognized by Provost for dedication to teaching, research and engagement • Read more » | 5/1/2018 | Emily Packard | NC State Provost News | Jennifer Kuzma: Recognized by Provost for dedication to teaching, research and engagement | Jennifer Kuzma |
AAAS Sciline Gene Drives media briefing for journalistsJoshua Colburn, SciLine | 4/25/2018Jennifer Kuzma: Gene drives and responsible innovation • Read more » | 4/25/2018 | Joshua Colburn | SciLine | Jennifer Kuzma: Gene drives and responsible innovation | Jennifer Kuzma |
Is This Tomato Engineered? Inside the Coming Battle Over Gene-Edited FoodJacob Bunge and Amy Dockser Marcus, Wall Street Journal | 4/15/2018Professor Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, says she understands why companies want to stay away from the GMO label, but says referring to the new gene-editing techniques as breeding “seems a little disingenuous.” “It is a biotech-improved crop,” she says. “Something along those lines would be more honest and is more likely not to come back and bite them in the future if consumers find out it is not really just breeding, it’s something more.” • Read more » | 4/15/2018 | Jacob Bunge and Amy Dockser Marcus | Wall Street Journal | Professor Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University, says she understands why companies want to stay away from the GMO label, but says referring to the new gene-editing techniques as breeding “seems a little disingenuous.” “It is a biotech-improved crop,” she says. “Something along those lines would be more honest and is more likely not to come back and bite them in the future if consumers find out it is not really just breeding, it’s something more.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Insect Gene Drives, Part 2 - with Jennifer KuzmaPaul Vincelli, Talking Biotech Podcast | 4/6/2018Dr. Kuzma speaks with Dr. Paul Vincelli (@Pvincell) about the social and political considerations of gene drives. She discusses ethics, policy and regulation, as well surprising imperatives where gene drives may be necessary for conservation or human health. • Read more » | 4/6/2018 | Paul Vincelli | Talking Biotech Podcast | Dr. Kuzma speaks with Dr. Paul Vincelli (@Pvincell) about the social and political considerations of gene drives. She discusses ethics, policy and regulation, as well surprising imperatives where gene drives may be necessary for conservation or human health. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Future Job: Freelance BiohackersMartin Hahn, Crisprcas12a | 4/5/2018Todd Kuiken, an environmentally friendly scientist, claims that leading bio scientists increasingly feel they do not need a PhD being a scientist. He claims that any strong, scientifically inclined mind is able to help the body of science. The greater minds that are devoted to solving the world’s medical problems, the more rapidly the human race will be able to solve them. • Read more » | 4/5/2018 | Martin Hahn | Crisprcas12a | Todd Kuiken, an environmentally friendly scientist, claims that leading bio scientists increasingly feel they do not need a PhD being a scientist. He claims that any strong, scientifically inclined mind is able to help the body of science. The greater minds that are devoted to solving the world’s medical problems, the more rapidly the human race will be able to solve them. | Todd Kuiken |
Insect Gene Drives, Part 1 - with Fred GouldPaul Vincelli, Talking Biotech Podcast | 3/31/2018Gene drives are a powerful technology that may be used to control pests. The concepts key off of exploiting genetic vulnerabilities that are rapidly inherited, and cause populations to crash over a short time. Such instances happen naturally, but now scientists are engineering the genetics of pests to induce steep population declines from gene drives. Dr. Fred Gould from North Carolina State University discusses the technology, its risks, regulation and some of the social aspects of application of the science. • Read more » | 3/31/2018 | Paul Vincelli | Talking Biotech Podcast | Gene drives are a powerful technology that may be used to control pests. The concepts key off of exploiting genetic vulnerabilities that are rapidly inherited, and cause populations to crash over a short time. Such instances happen naturally, but now scientists are engineering the genetics of pests to induce steep population declines from gene drives. Dr. Fred Gould from North Carolina State University discusses the technology, its risks, regulation and some of the social aspects of application of the science. | Fred Gould |
Would DNA Be Able To Altering Save Imperiled Species?Kathiann Kowalski, Science News for Students | 3/8/2018“Do we as humans really have the right to do this?” Kuiken asks. That’s a big question. What he means is that there’s a lot at stake with a version of a gene drive that is designed to spread a change in the environment forever. Even with the daisy chain, he wonders whether humans have the right “to remove one species from one area where we don’t want it, or that we don’t think is good for it.” • Read more » | 3/8/2018 | Kathiann Kowalski | Science News for Students | “Do we as humans really have the right to do this?” Kuiken asks. That’s a big question. What he means is that there’s a lot at stake with a version of a gene drive that is designed to spread a change in the environment forever. Even with the daisy chain, he wonders whether humans have the right “to remove one species from one area where we don’t want it, or that we don’t think is good for it.” | Todd Kuiken |
Could WA be the genetic testing ground for 'synthetic mice' to end mice?Katherine Wilson, The Sydney Morning Herald | 2/24/2018Last May, GBIRd's Todd Kuiken expressed concern about DARPA "bending the entire field of synthetic biology towards military applications." In July, Packard instructed the group to target Kuiken with "specific in-reach" and "remind him he's on the GBIRd team, despite his personal views about DARPA". He emailed Kuiken, telling him to "align your messaging" and "avoid criticising GBIRd and our pursuit of DARPA". • Read more » | 2/24/2018 | Katherine Wilson | The Sydney Morning Herald | Last May, GBIRd's Todd Kuiken expressed concern about DARPA "bending the entire field of synthetic biology towards military applications." In July, Packard instructed the group to target Kuiken with "specific in-reach" and "remind him he's on the GBIRd team, despite his personal views about DARPA". He emailed Kuiken, telling him to "align your messaging" and "avoid criticising GBIRd and our pursuit of DARPA". | Todd Kuiken |
AAAS Elections resultsJennifer Kuzma elected to the Societal Impacts of Science and Engineering committee of AAAS, Science | 1/26/2018Jennifer Kuzma elected to AAAS • Read more » | 1/26/2018 | Jennifer Kuzma elected to the Societal Impacts of Science and Engineering committee of AAAS | Science | Jennifer Kuzma elected to AAAS | Jennifer Kuzma |
Synthetic species made to shun sex with wild organismsEwan Callaway, Nature | 1/15/2018Dr. Fred Gould, in Nature, discusses a gene editing tool designed to prevent interbreeding between synthetic and wild organisms. The technology targets gene expression, and could be applied to mosquitoes to control infectious diseases, such as malaria, or to invasive species, like Asian carp. “This is an ingenious system and, if successful, could have many applications,” and that he is excited to see new approaches that could be used for genetic biocontrol of pests beyond what is currently available. “I would never want to put all my eggs in one basket.” • Read more » | 1/15/2018 | Ewan Callaway | Nature | Dr. Fred Gould, in Nature, discusses a gene editing tool designed to prevent interbreeding between synthetic and wild organisms. The technology targets gene expression, and could be applied to mosquitoes to control infectious diseases, such as malaria, or to invasive species, like Asian carp. “This is an ingenious system and, if successful, could have many applications,” and that he is excited to see new approaches that could be used for genetic biocontrol of pests beyond what is currently available. “I would never want to put all my eggs in one basket.” | Fred Gould |
First in Future podcast: Jennifer KuzmaLeslie Boney, Institute for Emerging Issues | 12/15/2017Dr. Jennifer Kuzma speaks with Leslie Boney, Director of the Institute for Emerging Issues (IEI) at NC State on the First in Future podcast. In this pod, Dr. Kuzma discusses gene edited mosquitoes, the ethics of Ancestry.com, DIYbio, and why Millennials give her hope. Plus, her book recommendations – Rise of the Robots by Martin Ford – and which Bob Dylan song best summarizes her view of the future. • Read more » | 12/15/2017 | Leslie Boney | Institute for Emerging Issues | Dr. Jennifer Kuzma speaks with Leslie Boney, Director of the Institute for Emerging Issues (IEI) at NC State on the First in Future podcast. In this pod, Dr. Kuzma discusses gene edited mosquitoes, the ethics of Ancestry.com, DIYbio, and why Millennials give her hope. Plus, her book recommendations – Rise of the Robots by Martin Ford – and which Bob Dylan song best summarizes her view of the future. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Is there really a covert manipulation of U.N. discussions about regulating gene drives?Jon Cohen, Science | 12/11/2017It had scandal written all over it. Disclosed emails revealed that a covert coalition lobbying for relaxed regulations around a genetic extinction technology, with help from a well-funded public relations firm, Emerging Ag, was attempting to game the system and manipulate the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). That was the spin in press releases issued last week by several watchdog groups that want a moratorium on research related to gene drives, which could enable bioengineers to increase the odds of passing down genes to offspring. The people in the supposed covert coalition say it’s nothing of the sort, they have no interest in gaming the system, and that their opponents are manipulating the truth. “It’s complete bullshit,” says Todd Kuiken, a synthetic biology researcher at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, who is a central target of the criticisms. “It’s asinine.” • Read more » | 12/11/2017 | Jon Cohen | Science | It had scandal written all over it. Disclosed emails revealed that a covert coalition lobbying for relaxed regulations around a genetic extinction technology, with help from a well-funded public relations firm, Emerging Ag, was attempting to game the system and manipulate the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). That was the spin in press releases issued last week by several watchdog groups that want a moratorium on research related to gene drives, which could enable bioengineers to increase the odds of passing down genes to offspring. The people in the supposed covert coalition say it’s nothing of the sort, they have no interest in gaming the system, and that their opponents are manipulating the truth. “It’s complete bullshit,” says Todd Kuiken, a synthetic biology researcher at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, who is a central target of the criticisms. “It’s asinine.” | Todd Kuiken |
Genetic tool that can doom a species under UN reviewEditorial staff, Phys.org | 12/5/2017"Imposing a moratorium on such promising, life-saving and life-improving innovations so early in their development would be unwarranted, damaging and irresponsible," the group said last December in response to the moratorium push. Todd Kuiken, a researcher at North Carolina State University and a member of AHTEG, agrees. "From a science perspective, putting a blanket moratorium on gene drive research just doesn't make sense to me," he told AFP. "You can't learn anything if you can't study it." • Read more » | 12/5/2017 | Editorial staff | Phys.org | "Imposing a moratorium on such promising, life-saving and life-improving innovations so early in their development would be unwarranted, damaging and irresponsible," the group said last December in response to the moratorium push. Todd Kuiken, a researcher at North Carolina State University and a member of AHTEG, agrees. "From a science perspective, putting a blanket moratorium on gene drive research just doesn't make sense to me," he told AFP. "You can't learn anything if you can't study it." | Todd Kuiken |
The Ability To Edit Genes Raises Big Questions On RegulationJennifer Brookland and Frank Stasio, WUNC's The State of Things | 11/28/2017But scientists are also calling for greater thought and reflection as we make changes that could have unforeseen consequences on organisms and ecosystems. Host Frank Stasio talks with Todd Kuiken, senior research scholar for the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University, about who should have access to gene editing tools and how the international community might continue to regulate them. • Read more » | 11/28/2017 | Jennifer Brookland and Frank Stasio | WUNC's The State of Things | But scientists are also calling for greater thought and reflection as we make changes that could have unforeseen consequences on organisms and ecosystems. Host Frank Stasio talks with Todd Kuiken, senior research scholar for the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University, about who should have access to gene editing tools and how the international community might continue to regulate them. | Todd Kuiken |
Scientist to the Senators: Ph.D. Student Johanna ElsensohnChelsea Kellner, NC State CALS News | 11/21/2017Ph.D. student Johanna Elsensohn understands the importance of intersecting science with policy: During the international Zika virus crisis, she worked with policymakers on one of her regular trips to Washington, D.C., as an entomology expert and advisor. Elsensohn studies genetic pest management, using genetic tools to modify pests themselves rather than plants. She was drawn to CALS for the chance to “not only focus on my discipline, but also on the social, economic, political implications of what my work implies.” • Read more » | 11/21/2017 | Chelsea Kellner | NC State CALS News | Ph.D. student Johanna Elsensohn understands the importance of intersecting science with policy: During the international Zika virus crisis, she worked with policymakers on one of her regular trips to Washington, D.C., as an entomology expert and advisor. Elsensohn studies genetic pest management, using genetic tools to modify pests themselves rather than plants. She was drawn to CALS for the chance to “not only focus on my discipline, but also on the social, economic, political implications of what my work implies.” | Johnanna Elsensohn |
Gene Drives’ Are Too Risky for Field Trials, Scientists SayCarl Zimmer, New York Times | 11/16/2017International negotiations might be required before such genetically modified mosquitoes were set loose. “That’s not a question for scientists to answer on their own,” said Jason A. Delborne, a social scientist at North Carolina State University and a member of the N.A.S. gene drive committee. • Read more » | 11/16/2017 | Carl Zimmer | New York Times | International negotiations might be required before such genetically modified mosquitoes were set loose. “That’s not a question for scientists to answer on their own,” said Jason A. Delborne, a social scientist at North Carolina State University and a member of the N.A.S. gene drive committee. | Jason Delborne |
New Model Warns About CRISPR Gene Drives in the WildBrooke Borel, Quanta | 11/16/2017Among those who disagree with their assessment is Jason Delborne, one of the authors of the 2016 report and a professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. While the 2016 report did suggest a stepwise approach to field tests, the authors “concluded that not enough was known to pursue an environmental release,” Delborne wrote by email. • Read more » | 11/16/2017 | Brooke Borel | Quanta | Among those who disagree with their assessment is Jason Delborne, one of the authors of the 2016 report and a professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. While the 2016 report did suggest a stepwise approach to field tests, the authors “concluded that not enough was known to pursue an environmental release,” Delborne wrote by email. | Jason Delborne |
Genetically Engineering the Natural World, it Turns Out, Could Be a DisasterKristen V. Brown, Gizmodo | 11/16/2017“This is part of an ongoing conversation about the balances of risk and benefits of gene drive technology,” said Jason Delborne, a scientist who works on gene drives at North Carolina State University who was not involved in the recent work. “These new papers signal that we should be even more cautious about gene drive technology.” • Read more » | 11/16/2017 | Kristen V. Brown | Gizmodo | “This is part of an ongoing conversation about the balances of risk and benefits of gene drive technology,” said Jason Delborne, a scientist who works on gene drives at North Carolina State University who was not involved in the recent work. “These new papers signal that we should be even more cautious about gene drive technology.” | Jason Delborne |
Student Spotlight: Mike Jones and the Economics of Cutting-Edge Ag TechnologyChelsea Kellner, NC State CALS News | 11/14/2017The academic journey of Florida native Mike Jones spans Peruvian potato fields and the irrigated deserts of Syria to arrive where Jones is today: on NC State’s campus, a Ph.D. student investigating the impacts and public perception of cutting-edge agricultural technology. • Read more » | 11/14/2017 | Chelsea Kellner | NC State CALS News | The academic journey of Florida native Mike Jones spans Peruvian potato fields and the irrigated deserts of Syria to arrive where Jones is today: on NC State’s campus, a Ph.D. student investigating the impacts and public perception of cutting-edge agricultural technology. | Mike Jones |
Politics “Trumps” Science in the Regulation of Genetically Engineered CropsJennifer Kuzma, GES Center | 11/7/2017OPINION | In recent years, the regulatory system for biotechnology products has not kept pace with newer ways of engineering organisms, such as through the use of gene editing like CRISPR-Cas9 systems. Under the Obama administration, progress had been made in clarifying U.S. biotechnology regulations. In January 2017, in the last few days of Obama’s term, several proposals were made for updating agency regulations and guidance documents. In particular, new US Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations were proposed for genetically engineered (GE) crops. • Read more » | 11/7/2017 | Jennifer Kuzma | GES Center | OPINION | In recent years, the regulatory system for biotechnology products has not kept pace with newer ways of engineering organisms, such as through the use of gene editing like CRISPR-Cas9 systems. Under the Obama administration, progress had been made in clarifying U.S. biotechnology regulations. In January 2017, in the last few days of Obama’s term, several proposals were made for updating agency regulations and guidance documents. In particular, new US Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations were proposed for genetically engineered (GE) crops. | Jennifer Kuzma |
USDA scraps overhaul of GMO and gene edited crop regulations that biotech advocates viewed as 'unscientific'"Paul McDivitt, Genetic Literacy Project | 11/7/2017“My thinking is that if a rule is criticized by both sides on the same points, it has probably struck a good balance,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor at North Carolina State University’s School of Public and International Affairs. She sees the Trump administration’s anti-regulation philosophy at work, and GE crop developers as the likely beneficiary of the withdrawal. • Read more » | 11/7/2017 | Paul McDivitt | Genetic Literacy Project | “My thinking is that if a rule is criticized by both sides on the same points, it has probably struck a good balance,” said Jennifer Kuzma, a professor at North Carolina State University’s School of Public and International Affairs. She sees the Trump administration’s anti-regulation philosophy at work, and GE crop developers as the likely beneficiary of the withdrawal. | Jennifer Kuzma |
Trump’s agriculture department reverses course on biotech rulesKelly Servick, Science | 11/6/2017It’s a predictable move by President Donald Trump’s White House to take another look at the policies of the previous administration, says Jennifer Kuzma, a social scientist who co-directs the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. “I expected them to eventually catch wind that this was something that USDA was doing, and reverse it.” • Read more » | 11/6/2017 | Kelly Servick | Science | It’s a predictable move by President Donald Trump’s White House to take another look at the policies of the previous administration, says Jennifer Kuzma, a social scientist who co-directs the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. “I expected them to eventually catch wind that this was something that USDA was doing, and reverse it.” | Jennifer Kuzma |
Could Genetic Engineering Save the Galápagos?Stephen S. Hall, Scientific American | 11/1/2017Two of his colleagues, Fred Gould and David Threadgill, were already discussing the possibility of tinkering with the mouse genome in an attempt to create mice incapable of producing female offspring. Two other colleagues, Jennifer Kuzma and Jason Delborne, became deeply involved in how to engage the larger world of stakeholders—government regulatory agencies, animal management officials, bioethicists and, of course, the general public—in considering the prospect of releasing genetically altered animals into the wild. Kuzma and Gould serve as co-directors of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State. • Read more » | 11/1/2017 | Stephen S. Hall | Scientific American | Two of his colleagues, Fred Gould and David Threadgill, were already discussing the possibility of tinkering with the mouse genome in an attempt to create mice incapable of producing female offspring. Two other colleagues, Jennifer Kuzma and Jason Delborne, became deeply involved in how to engage the larger world of stakeholders—government regulatory agencies, animal management officials, bioethicists and, of course, the general public—in considering the prospect of releasing genetically altered animals into the wild. Kuzma and Gould serve as co-directors of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State. | Jason Delborne, Fred Gould, Jennifer Kuzma |
Our (Possible) Genetic FuturesChelsea Kellner, NC State CALS News | 10/25/2017Titled “Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Future(s),” the exhibit was a partnership between NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES), the NC State Libraries and the museum, CAM Raleigh. It’s part of a broader effort to maintain public education and engagement that can help guide the cutting edge innovation. • Read more » | 10/25/2017 | Chelsea Kellner | NC State CALS News | Titled “Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Future(s),” the exhibit was a partnership between NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES), the NC State Libraries and the museum, CAM Raleigh. It’s part of a broader effort to maintain public education and engagement that can help guide the cutting edge innovation. | GES Center |
GM Mosquitoes Closer to Release in U.S.Abby Olena, The Scientist | 10/13/2017“Aedes aegypti transmit dengue, Zika, and other viral diseases,” explains North Carolina State University entomologist Fred Gould. Because vaccine development has thus far been challenging and the available dengue vaccine is only partially effective, the current strategy for combatting these diseases is insect control, which includes spraying millions of dollars worth of insecticides. As an alternative, biotech firms have been working on developing tools like the genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes and mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia, a bacterium that can disrupt virus transmission from mosquito to human. “You need to come at it from all directions responsibly,” Gould adds. • Read more » | 10/13/2017 | Abby Olena | The Scientist | “Aedes aegypti transmit dengue, Zika, and other viral diseases,” explains North Carolina State University entomologist Fred Gould. Because vaccine development has thus far been challenging and the available dengue vaccine is only partially effective, the current strategy for combatting these diseases is insect control, which includes spraying millions of dollars worth of insecticides. As an alternative, biotech firms have been working on developing tools like the genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes and mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia, a bacterium that can disrupt virus transmission from mosquito to human. “You need to come at it from all directions responsibly,” Gould adds. | Fred Gould |
Can Scientists Convince the Public to Accept CRISPR and Gene Drives?Brooke Borel, Scientific American | 10/1/2017“Without transparency, we might see a kind of hyperpolarization,” says Jason Delborne, a professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. Concerned groups will feel marginalized, and advocates won’t receive critical feedback needed to improve design and safety. “This puts the technology at risk of a knee-jerk moratorium at the first sign of difficulty,” he notes. • Read more » | 10/1/2017 | Brooke Borel | Scientific American | “Without transparency, we might see a kind of hyperpolarization,” says Jason Delborne, a professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. Concerned groups will feel marginalized, and advocates won’t receive critical feedback needed to improve design and safety. “This puts the technology at risk of a knee-jerk moratorium at the first sign of difficulty,” he notes. | Jason Delborne, Jennifer Kuzma |
The microbes in a mosquito's gut may help fight malariaKelly Servick, Science | 9/28/2017“I had been one of the people who was pretty skeptical that this could work,” says Fred Gould, an evolutionary biologist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. That’s in part because it’s hard to get a bacterium to thrive in the competitive environment of the gut, he says, and to stick with the mosquitoes as they grow from larvae to adults. “But it looks like they’re making some interesting progress here.” • Read more » | 9/28/2017 | Kelly Servick | Science | “I had been one of the people who was pretty skeptical that this could work,” says Fred Gould, an evolutionary biologist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. That’s in part because it’s hard to get a bacterium to thrive in the competitive environment of the gut, he says, and to stick with the mosquitoes as they grow from larvae to adults. “But it looks like they’re making some interesting progress here.” | Fred Gould |
Genetically Modified Moths Come to New YorkSarah Zhang, The Atlantic | 9/8/2017Scientists are watching the diamondback moth trial closely. “I’ll be very interested to see if this thing succeeds,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist at North Carolina State University. In addition to diamondback moths and mosquitoes, Oxitec has a handful of other genetically engineered insects that can be used to tackle common pests: the Mediterranean fruit fly, the Mexican fruit fly, and the olive fly. • Read more » | 9/8/2017 | Sarah Zhang | The Atlantic | Scientists are watching the diamondback moth trial closely. “I’ll be very interested to see if this thing succeeds,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist at North Carolina State University. In addition to diamondback moths and mosquitoes, Oxitec has a handful of other genetically engineered insects that can be used to tackle common pests: the Mediterranean fruit fly, the Mexican fruit fly, and the olive fly. | Fred Gould |
NC State Receives DARPA Funding to Develop, Test Gene Drive SystemJohn Godwin, NC State News | 8/3/2017In one approach, said project principal investigator John Godwin, an NC State professor of biological sciences, researchers would use genetic techniques to affect sex ratios by preventing the development of most female offspring. A few fertile males would continue to drive the sex-change construct through subsequent generations. The lack of females would quickly cause mouse populations to plummet. • Read more » | 8/3/2017 | John Godwin | NC State News | In one approach, said project principal investigator John Godwin, an NC State professor of biological sciences, researchers would use genetic techniques to affect sex ratios by preventing the development of most female offspring. A few fertile males would continue to drive the sex-change construct through subsequent generations. The lack of females would quickly cause mouse populations to plummet. | Todd Kuiken |
US defence agencies grapple with gene drivesEwan Callaway, Nature | 7/21/2017Todd Kuiken, who studies policy relating to synthetic biology at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, is glad to see gene-drive research receive more funding. But he has qualms about the US military’s interest in the field; with Safe Genes, DARPA has become the world’s largest government funder of gene-drive research. Kuiken worries that this could sow suspicions about gene drives in parts of the world that view the US military in a less-than-favourable light, including countries that stand to benefit from the elimination of disease carriers such as mosquitoes. • Read more » | 7/21/2017 | Ewan Callaway | Nature | Todd Kuiken, who studies policy relating to synthetic biology at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, is glad to see gene-drive research receive more funding. But he has qualms about the US military’s interest in the field; with Safe Genes, DARPA has become the world’s largest government funder of gene-drive research. Kuiken worries that this could sow suspicions about gene drives in parts of the world that view the US military in a less-than-favourable light, including countries that stand to benefit from the elimination of disease carriers such as mosquitoes. | Todd Kuiken |
Should Genetic Engineering Be Used as a Tool for Conservation?Richard Conniff, Yale Environment 360 | 7/20/2017“The success of this idea depends heavily,” according to gene drive researcher Megan Serr, “on the genetically modified male mice being ‘studs’ with the island lady mice … Will she want a hybrid male that is part wild, part lab?” Beyond that, the research program needs to figure out how many modified mice to introduce to eradicate an invasive population in a habitat of a particular size. • Read more » | 7/20/2017 | Richard Conniff | Yale Environment 360 | “The success of this idea depends heavily,” according to gene drive researcher Megan Serr, “on the genetically modified male mice being ‘studs’ with the island lady mice … Will she want a hybrid male that is part wild, part lab?” Beyond that, the research program needs to figure out how many modified mice to introduce to eradicate an invasive population in a habitat of a particular size. | Megan Serr |
How Genetically Modified Mice Could One Day Save Island BirdsBrooke Borel, Audubon Magazine | 7/11/2017CRISPR wouldn’t be unveiled for another year, but Godwin’s colleagues were already working on a natural gene drive in mosquitoes to curb dengue fever. Could a similar approach, he wondered, combat invasive mice? Given his expertise, Godwin was especially curious whether an engineered mouse would stand a chance wooing wild females. He convinced entomologist Fred Gould, co-director of NC State’s Center on Genetic Engineering and Society, and David Threadgill, a mouse geneticist with a focus on biomedicine, to take on Farallon mice as a test case. They arranged a conference call with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which manages the islands. • Read more » | 7/11/2017 | Brooke Borel | Audubon Magazine | CRISPR wouldn’t be unveiled for another year, but Godwin’s colleagues were already working on a natural gene drive in mosquitoes to curb dengue fever. Could a similar approach, he wondered, combat invasive mice? Given his expertise, Godwin was especially curious whether an engineered mouse would stand a chance wooing wild females. He convinced entomologist Fred Gould, co-director of NC State’s Center on Genetic Engineering and Society, and David Threadgill, a mouse geneticist with a focus on biomedicine, to take on Farallon mice as a test case. They arranged a conference call with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which manages the islands. | Fred Gould, Jennifer Kuzma, John Godwin |
DARPA’s Synthetic Biology Initiatives Could Militarize the EnvironmentTodd Kuiken, Slate | 5/15/2017In recent years, however, the military—mostly under the umbrella of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency—has created a new suite of programs that take a very different approach to harnessing the power of nature: synthetic biology. Among other initiatives, researchers at DARPA are attempting to engineer insects to deliver protective genes to plants; to transform bacteria and yeast into factories to produce on-demand chemicals and fuels; and to develop methods to reverse any threats posed by gene drives. • Read more » | 5/15/2017 | Todd Kuiken | Slate | In recent years, however, the military—mostly under the umbrella of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency—has created a new suite of programs that take a very different approach to harnessing the power of nature: synthetic biology. Among other initiatives, researchers at DARPA are attempting to engineer insects to deliver protective genes to plants; to transform bacteria and yeast into factories to produce on-demand chemicals and fuels; and to develop methods to reverse any threats posed by gene drives. | Todd Kuiken |
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| Recent News Posts | ||||
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| Blog: From Genes to Governance: Reflections on the ISBR Symposium in Ghent | Guest Author | Dec 3, 2025 | Nick Loschin | At ISBR 2025, scientists and regulators grappled with gene editing, governance, and the path toward responsible innovation. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/12/blog-genes-to-governance-isbr-symposium-ghent/ |
| New Tenure-Track Faculty Position in the GES Cluster | Patti Mulligan | Nov 19, 2025 | NC State University has launched a search for a new faculty member to join the Chancellor’s Faculty Excellence Program (CFEP) with the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Cluster. The Office of the Provost is recruiting for this tenure-track position, which represents a university-level investment in interdisciplinary scholarship at the intersection of genetic, genomic, and emerging biotechnologies and the societal contexts in which they develop. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/11/new-tenure-track-faculty-position-in-ges-cluster/ |
| Leading GES into the Future: A Conversation with Khara Grieger | Patti Mulligan | Nov 3, 2025 | For Khara Grieger, leadership is about teamwork, collaboration, and a shared vision. Now, as she steps into the role of Deputy Director and prepares to lead the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center in 2026, she is focused on guiding the Center into its next phase—strengthening partnerships, broadening impact, and embracing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/11/khara-grieger-leading-ges-into-the-future/ |
| Responsible Microbiome Engineering in Everyday Spaces | Patti Mulligan | Oct 8, 2025 | From household mold to hospital-acquired infections, NC State researchers are partnering with communities to ensure microbiome innovations serve society’s needs. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/10/responsible-microbiome-engineering-in-everyday-spaces/ |
| Blog: Governing Emerging Technologies: A Lesson from Burkina Faso | Guest Author | Sep 5, 2025 | Nourou Barry and Katie Barnhill | When Burkina Faso suspended Target Malaria in 2025, it was more than a scientific decision. This case reveals how sovereignty, legitimacy, and social science shape the governance of emerging technologies. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/09/blog-governing-emerging-technologies-a-lesson-from-burkina-faso/ |
| Study Develops Optimal Cover Crop Adoption Thresholds | Guest Author | Jun 11, 2025 | Researchers have developed a new model that can suggest the optimal conditions for farmers to plant cover crops, or crops grown in between cash-crop seasons, to help ensure long-term cash-crop success. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/06/study-develops-optimal-cover-crop-adoption-thresholds/ |
| Blog: Crossing Boundaries: Risk, Resilience, and Emerging Technologies in a Global Context | Guest Author | Jul 8, 2025 | GES Scholar Nick Loschin and Executive Committee member Dr. Khara Grieger traveled to Norway and Denmark this summer to share research on emerging technologies, highlighting how global collaboration, cross-boundary dialogue, and responsible innovation are essential for navigating risk and resilience in an increasingly complex world. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/07/blog-loschin-crossing-boundries-risk-resilience-and-emerging-technologies-in-a-global-context/ |
| Blog: Beyond Innovation: Putting Humanity at the Heart of Biotechnology | Guest Author | Apr 29, 2025 | Modesta Abugu | Attending the 2025 Spirit of Asilomar Conference shifted my scientific perspective profoundly—highlighting the urgent need to center ethics, equity, and human values in biotechnology. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/04/blog-beyond-innovation-putting-humanity-at-the-heart-of-biotechnology/ |
| Blog: The Spirit of Asilomar and the Future of Biotechnology | Guest Author | Apr 22, 2025 | Surabhi Metpally | A reflection on Dr. Katie Barnhill’s GES Colloquium talk about the 2025 Spirit of Asilomar and the Future of Biotechnology summit, and how it revisits the legacy of scientific self-regulation sparked by the original 1975 conference. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/04/blog-spirit-of-asilomar/ |
| Fred Gould: Lessons in Science and Humanity | Guest Author | Apr 3, 2025 | April 2, 2025 | Colleagues and former students credit renowned NC State University scientist Fred Gould for teaching them about life as well as science. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/04/fred-gould-lessons-in-science-and-humanity/ |
| Now Accepting Applications for the GES Minor Fellowship | Patti Mulligan | Mar 25, 2025 | Deadline extended to March 31st! Applications for the 2025-26 Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) minor fellowship are now open. Ever wonder how cutting-edge tech shapes our environment and communities—and how we balance innovation with real-world concerns? The Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Minor Fellowship at NC State invites students from every field to explore the science, ethics, and policy of genetic engineering. Here, you’ll gain the tools to tackle complex challenges, engage in meaningful dialogue, and learn how to bridge science and society in complex times. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2025/03/ges-minor-applications-open/ |
| Podcast: Should We Unleash GMO Mosquitoes? | Guest Author | Dec 16, 2024 | December 16, 2024 | On the Entanglements podcast, hosts Brooke Borel and Anna Rothschild talk to Omar Akbari, a molecular biologist, and Jennifer Kuzma, a social scientist, about altering insect genes. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/12/podcast-should-we-unleash-gmo-mosquitoes/ |
| Advancing Agriculture | Guest Author | Aug 14, 2024 | With a background in journalism and a passion for agricultural development, NC State doctoral student Joseph Gakpo hopes to leverage his education to make a difference in his native Ghana. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/08/ghana-agriculture-joseph-gakpo/ |
| Small-scale Science with Big Results: Using Nanotechnology to Improve Agricultural Sustainability | newswire | Jul 18, 2024 | Khara Grieger and her team at NC State are leveraging nanotechnology to enhance agricultural sustainability, aiming to boost crop resilience and minimize environmental impact. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/07/small-scale-science-with-big-results-using-nanotechnology-to-improve-agricultural-sustainability/ |
| Study Analyzes Potato-Pathogen ‘Arms Race’ After Irish Famine | newswire | Aug 5, 2024 | Researchers examine both the pathogen's effector genes and the plant's resistance genes simultaneously in a first-of-its-kind analysis. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/08/study-analyzes-potato-pathogen-arms-race-after-irish-famine/ |
| Blog: "To the USDA, and Beyond!": The Intersection of Governance and Biotechnology Innovation | Guest Author | May 30, 2024 | Christopher J. Gillespie | Recently, on National Agriculture Day, Dr. Jennifer Rowland, the Biotechnology Coordinator at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), gave a talk at the GES Colloquium that left a “big footprint”. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/05/blog-to-the-usda-and-beyond/ |
| Blog: Grappling with complexities of smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe | Guest Author | Apr 18, 2024 | Eric Butoto | Embarking on a three-month journey with CIMMYT in Zimbabwe, I delved into the heart of smallholder agriculture, witnessing firsthand the challenges, innovations, and unwavering resilience of farmers, offering a glimpse into their lives and the quest for food security in a changing climate. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/04/blog-grappling-with-complexities-of-smallholder-farmers-in-zimbabwe/ |
| Blog: Science Ideology and Policy: Eugenics in the South | Guest Author | Apr 16, 2024 | Ruthie Stokes | In the annals of history, the American South has been marked by a complex tapestry of culture, tradition, and struggle. Yet, amidst the backdrop of rural landscapes and Jim Crow laws, there lurked a shadowy chapter: the era of eugenics. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/04/blog-science-ideology-policy-eugenics-in-the-south/ |
| Blog: Saving Our Seeds, Changing Our Perspective | Guest Author | Apr 2, 2024 | Asa Budnick | The act of saving a seed holds varied meanings, from my perspective as a molecular biologist, refrigerating seeds for experiments, to the broader perspectives of farmers, breeders, and nations, reflecting the diverse value and conservation methods of seeds, as explored in Dr. Helen Anne Curry’s discussion on seed conservation history and its intersections with scientific, imperialistic, and agricultural narratives. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/04/blog-saving-our-seeds-changing-our-perspective/ |
| Blog: Bringing in Indigenous Perspectives on Synthetic Biology for Conservation | Guest Author | Feb 27, 2024 | Jill Furgurson | Dr. Kirsty Wissing's colloquium presentation highlighted the essential role of Indigenous participation in shaping conservation agendas, advocating for approaches that honor traditional ecological knowledge. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/blog-bringing-in-indigenous-perspectives-on-synbio-for-conservation/ |
| Blog: Key Ecological Perspectives: Tracing the Evolution of GMO Oversight with Dr. David Andow | Guest Author | Feb 21, 2024 | Nick Loschin | Dr. David Andow provided his insights and expertise on ecological and evolutionary perspectives related to genetic engineering through key events from the 1980s to the early 2000s | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/tracing-the-evolution-of-gmo-oversight-with-david-andow/ |
| Preventing the Next Plant Plague | Guest Author | Feb 19, 2024 | NC State's Jean Ristaino will write a book on her Irish Potato Famine research and work to prevent future plant disease outbreaks while in Dublin as a Fulbright scholar. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/preventing-the-next-plant-plague/ |
| NC State Named a Fulbright Top Producing Institution | Guest Author | Feb 16, 2024 | NC State has been recognized as one of the universities with the highest number of students, faculty and administrators selected for both the U.S. Fulbright Student and Scholar Programs, including three GES faculty members and an AgBioFEWS Fellow in 2023–24. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/nc-state-named-a-fulbright-top-producing-institution/ |
| Blog: Remembering 20th Century Eugenics in North Carolina | Guest Author | Feb 14, 2024 | Nolan Speicher | In a recent GES colloquium, PhD student Grace Wiedrich shared archival research that invites audiences to reflect on the eugenics movement and its intersections with our local history. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/blog-remembering-20th-century-eugenics-in-nc/ |
| Envisioning a More Equitable Food System | Guest Author | Feb 13, 2024 | Doctoral candidate and AgBioFEWS Fellow Christopher Gillespie seeks a stronger, more racially equitable food system, and at NC State, he’s taking steps to achieve that. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/equitable-food-systems/ |
| Starting Strong | Guest Author | Feb 7, 2024 | The first small companies to join the startup program are pursuing diverse products aimed at solving different agricultural problems. For example, Eli Hornstein, who holds a Ph.D. from NC State in plant metabolic engineering, has started Elysia Creative Biology to help slow climate change by producing bioengineered crops that can be turned into feed that reduces the emission of methane, a greenhouse gas, from cows. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/02/eli-hornstein-start-up-elysia-at-psi/ |
| Excited about biotech & ethics? Apply for the GES Minor Fellowship! | Patti Mulligan | Jan 26, 2024 | Exciting news for NC State graduate students! Applications for the 2024-2025 Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) minor fellowship are now open. Here's your chance to delve into the societal, technological, and ecological issues surrounding the development and potential use of genetically engineered organisms. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/01/ges-minor-announcement/ |
| Blog: Interdisciplinary Reflections on the U.S. Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and the Bioeconomy | Khara Grieger | Jan 24, 2024 | In December, GES-affiliated faculty and students participated in a roundtable discussion on the EO at the recent Society for Risk Analysis Annual Meeting, held in Washington, DC. The roundtable aimed to discuss the strengths and limitations of the recent EO on bio-innovation from interdisciplinary perspectives, highlighting aspects of biotechnology regulation and risk in particular. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2024/01/blog-reflections-biotech-eo/ |
| Delborne Awarded Prestigious AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowship | Patti Mulligan | Sep 20, 2023 | The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is pleased to announce that Dr. Jason Delborne, Professor of Science, Policy, and Society in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources and the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, and Dr. Morgan DiCarlo, Dr. William Casola, and Mr. William Murray MNE, North Carolina State University alumni, as members of the 51st class of the Science & Technology Policy Fellowships (STPF) program. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/09/delborne-awarded-prestigious-aaas-science-tech-policy-fellowship/ |
| NSF News: Is our phosphorus use sustainable? | Guest Author | Aug 23, 2023 | A U.S. National Science Foundation-supported study finds that most phosphorus stakeholders — representing a wide swath of industry, agriculture, environmental and policy interests — have significant doubts about the long-term sustainability of existing phosphorus management systems. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/08/nsf-news-is-our-phosphorus-use-sustainable/ |
| Is Our Phosphorus Use Sustainable? Most Stakeholders Doubt It | Khara Grieger | Jul 6, 2023 | Matt Shipman and Khara Grieger | A new study finds that most phosphorus stakeholders – representing a wide swath of industry, agriculture, environmental and policy interests – have significant doubts about the long-term sustainability of existing phosphorus management systems. The study underscores the complex challenges facing policymakers and other decision-makers as they attempt to ensure our continued access to a critical resource that is finite and largely non-renewable. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/07/is-our-phosphorus-use-sustainable-most-stakeholders-doubt-it/ |
| Blog: The Challenges of GMO Detection and Traceability in a Globalized Food System | Guest Author | Apr 7, 2023 | By Joseph Opoku Gakpo and Modesta Abugu | The traceability and detection of biotech foods in a globalized system remain crucial, and while detection methods have improved, many challenges remain, especially for products of new genomic methods like CRISPR. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/04/blog-the-challenges-of-gmo-detection-and-traceability-in-a-globalized-food-system/ |
| Blog: Impressions from the field: biotechnology, scale, and change | Guest Author | Apr 5, 2023 | By Asa Budnick and Jill Furgurson | Over the summer of 2022, the last cohort of AgBioFEWS graduate students conducted field research in eastern North Carolina, gaining insights into the intersection of biotechnology, farm size, and environmental shifts on farmers. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/04/blog-impressions-from-the-field-biotechnology-scale-and-change/ |
| Why do we love cats and hate rats? | Guest Author | Mar 6, 2023 | By NC State Libraries News | Why do we dote on parakeets but not pigeons? Why do we let cats curl up on our laps but catch rats in traps? Science writer Bethany Brookshire, author of the new book Pests: How Humans Create Animal Villians visits NC State on April 4th. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/03/why-do-we-love-cats-and-hate-rats/ |
| Blog: Reflections on COP15 | Khara Grieger | Jan 13, 2023 | GES members attended the recent UN biodiversity conference to better understand the impacts of biotechnology on biodiversity and conservation. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2023/01/blog-reflections-on-cop15/ |
| Experts from 14 Nations Discuss Global Gene Drive Project Registry | Guest Author | Dec 15, 2022 | By Yadira Galindo | UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science led 70 participants from 14 nations, including several GES Center faculty, in a discussion on the ways in which a gene drive project registry could both contribute to and detract from the fair development, testing and use of gene-drive modified organisms | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/12/experts-from-14-nations-discuss-global-gene-drive-project-registry/ |
| Tradition Meets Innovation | Guest Author | Nov 18, 2022 | By Kristen Sargent | Fueled by their father’s passion for agriculture, Ruthie and DJ Stokes are keeping a family promise: do what you love. The fourth-generation farmers have found common ground in supporting producers back home and feeding a growing population. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/11/tradition-meets-innovation/ |
| Modesta Abugu: Improving Sweetpotato Flavor for Nutrition Security | Guest Author | Oct 7, 2022 | By Brandon Hopper | Ph.D. student Modesta Abugu is researching flavor compounds in sweetpotatoes with a goal of increasing consumption and improving global nutrition security. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/10/modesta-abugu-improving-sweetpotato-flavor-for-nutrition-security/ |
| Blog: Archea, Microbial Superheroes? | Guest Author | Sep 27, 2022 | Jabeen Ahmad, September 27, 2022 | Food insecurity is a concern now and in the future. Globally, the United Nations estimates that about 690 million people are food insecure. By the year 2050, the world population is expected to reach nine billion people, requiring food supplies to double. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/09/blog-archea-microbial-superheroes/ |
| NC State part of $26 million grant to study microbiomes | Guest Author | Sep 7, 2022 | Heidi Reid, September 7, 2022 | NC State is taking part in the National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center for Precision Microbiome Engineering (PreMiEr) to research genetically engineered microbiomes. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/09/nc-state-part-of-26-million-grant-to-study-microbiomes/ |
| Exploring the Social, Ethical Sides of Microbiome Engineering | Guest Author | Sep 7, 2022 | Nash Dunn, September 7, 2022 | At NSF center, NC State to Lead Research on Societal and Ethical Implications of Emerging Technologies | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/09/exploring-the-social-ethical-sides-of-microbiome-engineering/ |
| Researchers Propose New Framework for Regulating Engineered Crops | Guest Author | Sep 1, 2022 | Mick Kulikoswki, September 1, 2022 | A Policy Forum article published today in Science calls for a new approach to regulating genetically engineered (GE) crops, arguing that current approaches for triggering safety testing vary dramatically among countries and generally lack scientific merit – particularly as advances in crop breeding have blurred the lines between conventional breeding and genetic engineering. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/09/researchers-propose-new-framework-for-regulating-ge-crops/ |
| NC State to Research Implications of Engineered Microbiomes with New NSF Center Grant | Guest Author | Aug 10, 2022 | Deborah Strange, August 10, 2022 | NC State University is part of a five-year, $26 million National Science Foundation center researching microbiome engineering. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/08/nsf-premier-erc/ |
| NC State Brings Expertise, Interdisciplinarity to Galapagos Consortium | Guest Author | Jul 29, 2022 | Deborah Strange, July 29, 2022 | In joining the International Galapagos Science Consortium, NC State bolsters its current research and service on the archipelago. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/07/international-galapagos-science-consortium/ |
| ¿Será la edición génica una alternativa de corto plazo para hacer frente a la subida de precios de alimentos? | Guest Author | Jul 26, 2022 | Gonzalo Muñoz y Mike Jones, March 29, 2022 | La edición génica es la metodología más reciente y por lo tanto es necesario crear nuevos marcos regulatorios, patentes y licenciamientos. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/07/blog-idb-sera-la-edicion-genica-una-alternativa-de-corto-plazo/ |
| Plant Science Pioneer Fights Late Blight of the Past and Future | Guest Author | Mar 29, 2022 | March 29, 2022 | Jean Ristaino has made history by tracking late blight’s origins, and she is making history again by fighting future late blight outbreaks as a scientist with the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/03/plant-science-pioneer-fights-late-blight-of-the-past-and-future/ |
| Seed Funding Speeds Growth for TreeCo — an NC State Startup | Guest Author | Mar 16, 2022 | March 16, 2022 | Just shy of three years ago, Jack Wang and Rodolphe Barrangou — two NC State professors — received support from the Chancellor’s Innovation Fund, a competitive internal seed funding program. Now, their startup TreeCo is thriving. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/03/treeco-seed-funding/ |
| NC State University Awarded BioMADE Funding to Advance U.S. Bioindustrial Manufacturing by Educating Future Workers | Guest Author | Mar 3, 2022 | With a new project funded by BioMADE — led by professor Gary Gilleskie — NC State will help train the workforce needed to advance bioindustrial manufacturing in the U.S. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/03/biomade-funding-to-educate-future-bioindustrial-manufacturing-workers/ |
| Tips for a Good Zoom Recording | Patti Mulligan | Feb 16, 2022 | Whether you are giving a big presentation, or responsible for making sure it goes well, here are some tips to make sure your next Zoom meeting recording looks great. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/02/tips-for-a-good-zoom-recording/ |
| 2021-22 University Faculty Scholars Named | newswire | Feb 8, 2022 | NC State recently announced its 2021-22 class of University Faculty Scholars. These 23 early- and mid-career faculty received this designation in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements and contributions to NC State through their teaching, scholarship and service to the university and beyond. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/02/2021-22-university-faculty-scholars-named/ |
| What to Know About GMOs | newswire | Nov 2, 2021 | Jennifer Kuzma, Goodnight-NCGSK Foundation Distinguished Professor in the School of Public and International Affairs and a biotech policy expert, answers some common questions about genetically modified organisms. Kuzma is the co-founder and co-director of NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/11/what-to-know-about-gmos-2/ |
| More Transparency Recommended for Gene-Edited Crops | newswire | Nov 19, 2020 | NC State researchers suggest mechanism to provide more information about biotech crops and products. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/11/more-transparency-recommended-for-gene-edited-crops/ |
| Fusing Disciplines, Transforming Graduate Education | newswire | Jan 2, 2020 | An interdisciplinary program prepares students to grapple with the growing role of genetic engineering and biotechnology in agriculture — and solve complex societal problems. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/01/fusing-disciplines-transforming-graduate-education/ |
| NC State receives USDA/NIFA grant to evaluate societal impacts and foster sustainability of GE and nanotech in agriculture | Patti Mulligan | Feb 11, 2022 | February 10, 2022 | Khara Grieger, together with GES Co-director Jennifer Kuzma, will lead a $650,000 project that will support the responsible development of novel agrifood technologies to contribute to more sustainable food and ag systems. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/02/nc-state-receives-usda-nifa-grant-on-societal-impacts-of-ge-and-nanotech/ |
| Two Professors Named 2021 AAAS Fellows | Guest Author | Jan 26, 2022 | Delborne and Watzin are recognized for their “scientifically and socially distinguished achievements.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2022/01/two-professors-named-2021-aaas-fellows/ |
| Blog: Considerations for developing GMO crops around the world | Guest Author | Nov 10, 2021 | Agriculture is changing and so are the technologies needed to improve it. Scientists should be allowed to develop genetically modified (GM) crops to provide options for smallholder farmers who depend on a successful harvest for their livelihood. That position was highlighted in a panel discussion featuring biotechnology leaders at the Genetics Engineering and Society colloquium organized by the third cohort of the AgBioFEWs fellowship. The question that informed this colloquium was, who makes the decision on which GM crops are developed around the world? | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/11/blog-considerations-for-developing-gmo-crops-around-the-world/ |
| Fred Gould named Executive Director of NC State Genetics and Genomics Academy | Guest Author | Nov 5, 2021 | Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Warwick Arden and Senior Vice Provost for Academic Strategy and Resource Management and Chief of Staff Duane Larick today officially announced the launch of NC State’s Genetics and Genomics Academy. The academy represents a universitywide, interdisciplinary effort to engage faculty, staff, undergraduate and graduate students in harnessing the power of science to serve society | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/11/fred-gould-named-executive-director-of-nc-state-genetics-and-genomics-academy/ |
| Khara Grieger to Co-lead Knowledge Transfer Efforts for New $25 million Phosphorus Research Center | Guest Author | Oct 8, 2021 | October 8, 2021 | Khara Grieger will co-lead Knowledge Transfer efforts between researchers and stakeholders for NC State’s new $25 million NSF STEPS Center. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/10/khara-grieger-to-co-lead-knowledge-transfer-efforts-for-new-25-million-phosphorus-research-center/ |
| What to Know About GMOs | Guest Author | Sep 29, 2021 | NC State biotech policy expert Jennifer Kuzma answers top questions about genetically modified organisms. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/09/what-to-know-about-gmos/ |
| A Sterile Solution: How Crispr Could Protect Wild Salmon | Guest Author | Jul 21, 2021 | Gene-editing technology may prevent escaped farmed salmon from interbreeding with their wild counterparts. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/07/a-sterile-solution-how-crispr-could-protect-wild-salmon/ |
| Cultural Beliefs and Stakeholder Affiliation Influence Attitudes Towards Responsible Research and Innovation | Frontiers in Political Science | Jennifer Kuzma | Jun 24, 2021 | Jennifer Kuzma, June 24, 2021 | Biotech developers are concerned about the future of gene editing having experienced the contentious history of first-generation GM foods. They have also expressed desires to do better with public engagement in gene-editing innovation. The framework of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) may provide a way forward to act on their desires for greater public legitimacy. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/06/cultural-beliefs-and-stakeholder-affiliation-influence-attitudes-towards-rri/ |
| A Focus on "Intended Consequences" to Drive Conservation Action | Conservation Science and Practice | Patti Mulligan | Apr 15, 2021 | Press Release, April 15, 2021 | A newly published special issue of Conservation Science and Practice makes the case for rebalancing the risk–benefit equation in conservation. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/04/intended-consequences-press-release/ |
| First GMO Mosquitoes to Be Released In the Florida Keys | Undark | Guest Author | Apr 12, 2021 | The EPA approved Oxitec's mosquitoes for release this spring. Some scientists and locals want to halt the deployment. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/04/first-gmo-mosquitoes-to-be-released-in-the-florida-keys-undark/ |
| PSI Profile: Ross Sozzani, Platform Director for Plant Improvement | Guest Author | Feb 9, 2021 | D'Lyn Ford, Feb. 9, 2021 | The plant improvement platform director for the North Carolina Plant Sciences Initiative shares her vision: collaboration, innovative crop technologies and students ready for the workforce. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/02/psi-profile-ross-sozzani-platform-director-for-plant-improvement/ |
| Invasive Flies Prefer Untouched Territory When Laying Eggs | Guest Author | Feb 15, 2021 | Hannah Burrack and Matt Shipman, Feb. 15, 2021 | The finding raises questions about how the flies can tell whether a piece of fruit is virgin territory – and what that might mean for pest control. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/02/d-suzukii-untouched-fruit/ |
| Biotech: An Environmentalist's Dilemma | Todd Kuiken | Jan 21, 2021 | Biodesigned, Jan. 21, 2021 | Environmental scientist Todd Kuiken weighs the pros and cons of deploying biotechnology to protect vulnerable ecosystems. Can altering the DNA of species save them from the impacts of human induced climate change, or will it wreak a new form of havoc?" | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2021/01/biotech-an-environmentalists-dilemma/ |
| Scientists Set a Path for Field Trials of Gene Drive Organisms | Science | Guest Author | Dec 17, 2020 | Press Release, December 17, 2020 | As genetically engineered organisms ramp up, a multidisciplinary coalition offers a framework for ethical, socially engaged and transparent field practices | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/12/scientists-set-path-for-field-trials-of-gene-drive-organisms/ |
| Researchers Recommend More Transparency for Gene-Edited Crops | Science | Guest Author | Nov 19, 2020 | Press Release, November 19, 2020 | New government regulations for biotechnology will create gaps in oversight of gene-edited crops and the provision of information to consumers. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/11/gene-editing-transparency/ |
| The ‘Public Good’ of Controlling Mobile Pests with Genetically Engineered Crops | Guest Author | Nov 12, 2020 | Margaret Huffman, Nov. 11 2020 | Choosing to plant genetically engineered seed that will grow insect-resistant corn (Bt corn) is more expensive at the time of planting but is common practice in places like the United States and the Philippines. This study takes a closer look at those who do not plant genetically engineered seed because their neighbors use of Bt corn eliminated the local pest pressure. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/11/the-public-good-of-controlling-mobile-pests-with-genetically-engineered-crops/ |
| Student Spotlight: Jabeen Ahmad, AgBioFEWS Fellow | Guest Author | Nov 2, 2020 | CALS Magazine, Fall 2020 | AgBioFEWS Fellow Jabeen Ahmad's interdisciplinary journey from public defender to plant biologist. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/11/student-spotlight-jabeen-ahmad/ |
| Responsible Innovation in Biotechnology: Stakeholder attitudes and implications for research policy | Elementa | Jennifer Kuzma | Sep 1, 2020 | Jennifer Kuzma, September 1, 2020 | This article explores attitudes of stakeholders involved in biotechnology towards the Responsible Innovation (RI) framework. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/09/stakeholder-attitudes-towards-responsible-innovation-elementa/ |
| Office of Research and Innovation Honors Three with Award for Excellence | Patti Mulligan | Aug 13, 2020 | Matt Simpson, August 10, 2020 | Three Office of Research and Innovation employees won this year’s Award for Excellence — SHRA employee Patti Mulligan and EHRA employees Daniel Findley and Nicholas Leblanc. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/08/office-of-research-and-innovation-honors-three-with-award-for-excellence/ |
| Returning to Farming’s Roots in the Battle Against the ‘Billion-Dollar Beetle’ | Agricultural and Resource Economics | Guest Author | Jul 21, 2020 | Rosemary Brandt, July 21, 2020 | Nicknamed the "billion-dollar beetle" for its enormous economic costs to growers in the United States each year, the western corn rootworm is one of the most devastating pests farmers face. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/07/returning-to-farmings-roots-in-the-battle-against-the-billion-dollar-beetle/ |
| CALS News - Using Leaf Fungi to Improve Crop Resilience | Patti Mulligan | Jun 29, 2020 | Mollie Rappe, June 29, 2020 | Jason Delborne, a researcher with the Genetic Engineering and Society Center and the College of Natural Resources, will lead the efforts to assess public opinion and analyze the potential regulatory pathway for techniques to introduce beneficial plant fungi to crops. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/06/cals-news-using-fungi-to-improve-crop-resilience/ |
| Blog: We must do better... | Todd Kuiken | Jun 11, 2020 | Todd Kuiken, June 11, 2020 | The following reflection was part of a special GES colloquium held on June 5, 2020, discussing the new USDA regulations on GM crops. Which was held in the midst of national protests against police brutality. They are my personal reflections in support of #blacklivesmatter and the systemic racism and inequalities seen throughout our institutions. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/06/we-must-do-better/ |
| Genetically modified mosquitoes could be released in Florida and Texas beginning this summer – silver bullet or jumping the gun? | Jennifer Kuzma | Jun 3, 2020 | Jennifer Kuzma, June 3, 2020 | Release of GM mosquitoes in Florida is imminent. But a multidisciplinary team of scientists believe that more studies are needed first. They encourage a publicly accessible registry for GM organisms. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/06/genetically-modified-mosquitoes-could-be-released-in-florida-and-texas-beginning-this-summer-silver-bullet-or-jumping-the-gun/ |
| Blog: COVID-19 Reveals the Personal Side of Globalization - GM Researchers Should Take Note | Nora Haenn | May 20, 2020 | Nora Haenn, 5/20/2020 | COVID-19 has shown us, there’s an important consequence for the way globalization is both local at all points and persistently invisible in its entirety. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/05/covid19-reveals-personal-side-of-globalization-gm-researchers-take-note/ |
| Jennifer Kuzma awarded Outstanding Research Award, inducted into Research Leadership Academy | Guest Author | May 11, 2020 | Matt Simpson, May 5, 2020 | The Office of Research and Innovation, in partnership with the Alumni Association, has selected six NC State faculty members as recipients of this year’s Outstanding Research Award. The six awardees will also be inducted to the Research Leadership Academy (RLA). | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/05/jennifer-kuzma-awarded-outstanding-research-award/ |
| Blog: Yes, and... | Guest Author | Apr 22, 2020 | Royden Saah and Eli Hornstein, 4/22/2020 | To counter the COVID-19 pandemic, YES we can be responsible AND take urgent, unfamiliar action. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/04/yes-and-covid/ |
| Decision-making about Emerging Technologies and Global Risks | Patti Mulligan | Apr 14, 2020 | GES Center receives NSF Grant to investigate geoengineering for global climate change | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/04/nsf-grant-decision-making-about-emerging-technologies-and-global-risks/ |
| Blog: Review of Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Futures | We Make Money Not Art | Guest Author | Apr 7, 2020 | Regine Debatty - April 6, 2020 | Artists offer new insights about genetic engineering by bringing it out of the lab and into public places to challenge viewers’ understandings about the human condition, the material of our bodies | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/04/blog-review-arts-work-genetic-futures/ |
| COVID-19—Biotechnology Is Never Enough | Jennifer Kuzma | Apr 3, 2020 | The currently-unfolding COVID-19 case boldly underscores the reality that science and technology are never enough to solve global health problems alone. Rather, we need a strategic and systematic integration of social sciences, risk sciences, and communication along with science, technology, and innovation to adequately meet the challenges of emerging global risks, such as COVID-19. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/04/covid-19-biotech-is-never-enough/ |
| Virtual Colloquium: Zoom Instructions | Patti Mulligan | Mar 19, 2020 | GES Colloquium Zoom registration information | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/03/virtual-colloquium-zoom-instructions/ |
| WUNC: An Ancient Greek Festival For Creating Female Sperm | Guest Author | Jan 10, 2020 | Grant Holub-Moorman & Anita Rao - January 10, 2020 | Semen is a potent substance, both literally and symbolically. It was described by Chinese proverb as “equal to ten drops of blood”; by Sumerians as “a divine substance... | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/01/wunc-ancient-greek-festival-creating-female-sperm/ |
| Indy Week: At the Crossroads of Art and Biotech, a Warning: Be Careful What You Wish For | Guest Author | Jan 13, 2020 | Brian Howe - January 13, 2020 | The Gregg Museum's "Art's Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Futures" is less concerned with answering big questions than in finding head-spinning new ways to ask them. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/01/indy-week-crossroads-of-art-and-biotech/ |
| Art the Science Blog: WORKS – Art's Work in the Age of Biotechnology | Guest Author | Jan 7, 2020 | Alice Fleerackers - January 7, 2020 | From "designer babies" to de-extinct woolly mammoths, recent developments in biotechnology have profoundly changed what we view as possible. But each of these possibilities brings... | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2020/01/art-the-science-blog-works-awab/ |
| Lessons Learned for Risk Governance of Synthetic Biology, Nanomaterials, and Other Emerging Technologies in a Post-2020 World | Todd Kuiken | Dec 13, 2019 | Khara Grieger and Todd Kuiken, Dec. 13, 2019 | On December 9th, a symposium was held at the 2019 Annual Meeting of the Society for Risk Analysis, entitled “Risk Analysis of Engineered Nanomaterials: Where Have We Been, Lessons Learned, and Transfer of Knowledge to Other Emerging Technologies,” as a part of the Advanced Materials and Technologies Specialty Group. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/12/lessons-learned-risk-governance-synbio-nano-post2020-world/ |
| CALS News - Fred Gould: My Journey to Interdisciplinary Research | Patti Mulligan | Dec 2, 2019 | Mollie Rappe, Dec 2, 2019 | NC State Distinguished Professor Fred Gould shares his journey to interdisciplinary research on genetically modified pests and beyond, as well as the challenges he overcame along the way. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/12/cals-news-fred-gould-journey-to-interdisciplinary-research/ |
| Margaret Atwood discusses her 'prophetic' novel, effects of new science developments on society | Guest Author | Nov 17, 2019 | On Friday, Nov. 15, Margaret Atwood, the critically acclaimed dystopian novelist of "The Handmaid's Tale" and "The Testaments" visited Talley Student Union's State Ballroom and discussed a plethora of issues | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/11/margaret-atwood-discusses-prophetic-novel/ |
| Margaret Atwood and the Biotechnology of Tomorrow | Guest Author | Nov 18, 2019 | Renowned author Margaret Atwood visited NC State to discuss fiction's role in the future of biotechnology and genetic engineering. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/11/margaret-atwood-and-the-biotechnology-of-tomorrow/ |
| CALS Spotlight on Fred Gould: How Do We Communicate Genetic Engineering? | Guest Author | Oct 15, 2019 | Dee Shore, Fall 2019 | NC State professor and genetic engineer Fred Gould is focused on clear communication and the public good. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/10/cals-fred-gould-the-biggest-battle-ahead-is-misinformation/ |
| Announcing: Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping Our Genetic Futures Exhibition | Patti Mulligan | Oct 1, 2019 | Raleigh, NC – NC State University Libraries and the Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center present the Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology, opening at the Gregg Museum of Art & Design on Thursday, October 17, 6 to 8 p.m. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/10/press-release-arts-work-genetic-futures-opening-oct-17/ |
| Student Spotlight: DeShae Dillard, AgBioFEWS Fellow | Guest Author | Sep 18, 2019 | Dee Shore, Sept. 17, 2019 | When he first set foot in Columbia, North Carolina, this summer, NC State Ph.D. student DeShae Dillard felt as though he’d arrived in another country. There, the AgBioFEWS Fellow learned more about rural life, especially the everyday challenges of farming. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/09/student-spotlight-deshae-dillard/ |
| Does the US public support using gene drives to control agricultural pests? | Guest Author | Sep 11, 2019 | Mike Jones, Sep. 11, 2019 | The development of gene drives is progressing more rapidly than our understanding of public values towards these technologies. Findings from this research can inform responsible innovation in gene drive development and risk assessment. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/09/does-the-us-support-gene-drives-to-control-ag-pests/ |
| Announcing: An Evening with Margaret Atwood - Friday, Nov. 15 | Patti Mulligan | Aug 21, 2019 | The GES Center is excited to announce: An Evening with Margaret Atwood, Internationally-renowned author of The Handmaid's Tale, Friday, Nov. 15 at Talley Student Union, NC State University. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/08/announcing-an-evening-with-margaret-atwood-friday-nov-15/ |
| NC State corn maze opens at NC Museum of Art through October | Patti Mulligan | Aug 13, 2019 | WTVD ABC 11, August 13, 2019 | A quarter-acre corn maze is now open at the NC Museum of Art's Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/08/wtvd-corn-maze-open-at-nc-museum-of-art-through-october/ |
| Field_Notes: Expanding the Possibilities of Bioart | Patti Mulligan | Apr 8, 2019 | Hannah Star Rogers, April 8, 2019 | In the first entry in a series of contributions, Hannah Star Rogers convenes reflections from Leena Valkeapää, Saara Hannula, and Erich Berger on the 2018 convening of the Helsinki-based Bioart Society. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/04/field_notes-expanding-the-possibilities-of-bioart/ |
| USDA to biotech: Call your own compliance | Patti Mulligan | Jul 30, 2019 | Steven Suppan, July 30, 2019 | The U.S. Department of Agriculture wants agribusiness to sell more genetically engineered (GE) seeds and food products all over the world, as soon as possible. This rule would go beyond already controversial genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to encompass hundreds of new products of new gene and genome editing techniques. The fastest way to do that? | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/07/usda-to-biotech-call-your-own-compliance/ |
| GES Center awarded half-million dollar grant to study responsible innovation of food nanotechnology | Patti Mulligan | Jul 25, 2019 | July 25, 2019 | Khara Grieger and Jennifer Kuzma will lead a two-year, USDA-funded study of responsible innovation of food nanotechnology. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/07/usda-grant-implications-of-nanotech-in-food-ag/ |
| Faculty Spotlight: Khara Grieger | Patti Mulligan | Jul 15, 2019 | Patti Mulligan, July 15, 2019 | INTERVIEW: We sat down with the GES Center's newest Senior Research Scholar, Khara Grieger. She joined our team in the spring of 2019, but has already given a colloquium and is working on several nanotechnology-related research projects. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/07/faculty-spotlight-khara-grieger/ |
| Biotechnology Oversight Gets an Early Make-Over by Trump’s White House and USDA: Part 2 - The USDA-APHIS Rule | Jennifer Kuzma | Jul 2, 2019 | Jennifer Kuzma, July 2, 2019 | USDA-APHIS has proposed an oversight process for GE crops that appears to be a significant departure from the current one. This article discusses the features of the proposed new rule, along with its strengths and weaknesses and my recommendations for how it should be amended. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/07/ag-biotech-oversight-makeover-part-2-usda-aphis-rule/ |
| Can Genetic Engineering Save Our Planet’s Biodiversity? | Guest Author | Jun 25, 2019 | Andrew Moore, June 24, 2019 | Researchers at NC State’s College of Natural Resources — and around the world — are considering ways to employ genetic engineering for conservation. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/06/can-genetic-engineering-save-our-planets-biodiversity/ |
| Workshop Report on Gene Drive Mice for Biodiversity Protection on Islands | Jason Delborne | Jun 24, 2019 | S. Kathleen Barnhill-Dilling, June 24, 2019 | Mice offer an ideal genetic model for exploring the possibility of developing a synthetic gene drive in mammals. As pests, they pose challenges to human health, agricultural yields and storage, and biodiversity, especially on islands where they are not native. If research on gene drives in mice were to progress to a field trial, an island ecosystem would offer an additional level of physical containment. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/06/workshop-report-gene-drive-mice/ |
| Biotechnology Oversight Gets an Early Make-Over by Trump’s White House and USDA: Part 1—The Executive Order | Jennifer Kuzma | Jun 18, 2019 | Jennifer Kuzma, June 18, 2019 | Last week, the Trump administration set the tone for its oversight of agricultural biotechnology (ag biotech) through two major actions: 1) Signing the Modernizing the Regulatory Framework for Agricultural Biotechnology Products Executive Order; and 2) Proposing a draft rule on the Movement of Certain Genetically Engineered Organisms (GEOs), changing how USDA reviews GE plants. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/06/ag-biotech-oversight-makeover-part-1-eo/ |
| IUCN Report: Genetic frontiers for conservation - An assessment of synthetic biology and biodiversity conservation | Todd Kuiken | May 9, 2019 | Todd Kuiken, May 9, 2019 | Synthetic biology – altering or redesigning genes to meet human objectives – is a fast-developing field with significant potential impacts on nature conservation, according to the Genetic frontiers for conservation assessment report. So far mostly applied in agriculture and medicine, synthetic biology could have substantial knock-on effects on conservation – including modified genes spreading to non-target species and affecting broader ecosystems, but also benefits such as saving threatened species, reduced fertiliser use or diminished demand for products derived from threatened species. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/05/genetic-frontiers-for-conservation-iucn/ |
| Curating Art and Science: Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology | Patti Mulligan | Mar 25, 2019 | Hannah Star Rogers, March 25, 2019 | Resurrecting the Sublime is a synthetic biology based artwork which presents the scents of extinct plants, produced through a combination of techniques, materials, and ideas from art and biotechnology. This work will be installed as part of the Art's Work/Genetic Futures exhibit in the fall of 2019. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/03/curating-art-and-science-arts-work-in-the-age-of-biotechnology/ |
| Governing evolution - A socioecological comparison of resistance management for Bt crops | Zachary Brown | Mar 25, 2019 | Zachary Brown, March 21, 2019 | Cooperative management of pest susceptibility to transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crops is pursued worldwide in a variety of forms and to varying degrees of success depending on context. We examine this context using a comparative socioecological analysis of resistance management in Australia, Brazil, India, and the United States. We find that a shared understanding of resistance risks among government regulators, growers, and other actors is critical for effective governance. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/03/brown-governing-evolution-socioeco-comparison-resistance-bt-crops/ |
| Procedurally Robust Risk Assessment Framework for Novel Genetically Engineered Organisms and Gene Drives | Jennifer Kuzma | Mar 12, 2019 | Jennifer Kuzma, March 8, 2019 | This article reviews the current state of gene-editing regulation for crops, illuminating the ways in which technology developers are repeating practices that may lead to the public and ethical failures of the first generation genetically engineered crops, and argues that the contentious socio-political history of genetic engineering will repeat itself for gene editing if these continue. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/03/kuzma_risk-assessment-novel-geos/ |
| Sustainability as a Framework for Considering Gene Drive Mice for Invasive Rodent Eradication | Patti Mulligan | Mar 6, 2019 | March 4, 2019 | Sustainability as a Framework for Considering Gene Drive Mice for Invasive Rodent Eradication, by S. Kathleen Barnhill-Dilling, Megan Serr, Dimitri V. Blondel and John Godwin. Abstract: Gene drives represent a dynamic and controversial set of technologies with applications that range from mosquito control to the conservation of biological diversity on islands. Currently, gene drives are being developed in mice that may one day serve as an important tool for reducing invasive rodent pests, a key threat to island biodiversity and economies. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/03/sustainability-framework-for-gene-drive-mice/ |
| 2018-19 University Faculty Scholars Named | Patti Mulligan | Feb 27, 2019 | NC State’s 2018-19 class of University Faculty Scholars was announced today. These 20 early- and mid-career faculty [including GES Center Executive Committee Member, Jason Delborne] receive this designation due to their significant academic achievements and contributions to NC State through their teaching, research and community engagement. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/02/2018-19-university-faculty-scholars-named/ |
| Report: Stakeholder Perspectives on Gene Drive Mice for Biodiversity Protection on Islands | Jason Delborne | Feb 20, 2019 | Jason Delborne, February 20, 2019 | This article reviews the current state of gene-editing regulation for crops, illuminating the ways in which technology developers are repeating practices that may lead to the public and ethical failures of the first generation genetically engineered crops, and argues that the contentious socio-political history of genetic engineering will repeat itself for gene editing if these continue. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/02/report-gene-drive-landscape/ |
| Can genetic engineering save disappearing forests? | Jason Delborne | Jan 18, 2019 | Jason Delborne, January 18, 2019 | Forests in the US face many threats: climate change, invasive species, pests and pathogens. Could genetically engineering trees make these plants more resilient?" | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/01/can-genetic-engineering-save-disappearing-forests/ |
| Kudos to Kuzma: Distinguished Professor Named AAAS Fellow | Patti Mulligan | Nov 28, 2018 | Jennifer Kuzma has been elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Kuzma is the college’s Goodnight-North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Distinguished Professor in Social Sciences and co-directs NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/11/kudos-to-kuzma-distinguished-professor-named-aaas-fellow/ |
| 4 NC State Faculty Named AAAS Fellows | newswire | Nov 27, 2018 | The American Association for the Advancement of Science elects 416 fellows, including four from NC State. Meet our newest members of the prestigious organization. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/11/4-nc-state-faculty-named-aaas-fellows/ |
| ‘Changing the Landscape of Graduate Education’ | newswire | Sep 6, 2018 | NC State’s AgBioFEWS program will blend natural and social sciences to train next-generation problem-solvers in agricultural biotechnology. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/09/changing-the-landscape-of-graduate-education-2/ |
| Changing the Landscape of Graduate Education | newswire | Sep 6, 2018 | Problems related to food, energy and water are becoming increasingly complex. NC State is taking a new approach to prepare the scientists who will solve them. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/09/changing-the-landscape-of-graduate-education/ |
| How to Limit Mosquito Exposure | newswire | Aug 8, 2016 | As we head into prime mosquito season in North Carolina, NC State University Ph.D. student Sophia Webster outlines ways you can limit your exposure by eliminating standing water or using insect sprays. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/08/how-to-limit-mosquito-exposure/ |
| Engineering a New Mosquito | newswire | Aug 15, 2016 | The field of genetic engineering offers an array of approaches to eliminating human diseases spread by mosquitoes. NC State Univeristy Ph.D. student Sophia Webster is conducting research on one viable solution to the problem. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/08/engineering-a-new-mosquito/ |
| Graduate Students Share Stories with Legislators | newswire | Jun 5, 2018 | More than 30 graduate students and their leaders from across the state were on hand for Graduate Education Day 2018 at the N.C. General Assembly recently to share their research and advocate for the value of graduate education. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/06/graduate-students-share-stories-with-legislators/ |
| 10 of the Most Diabolical Crop Pests in North Carolina | newswire | Jun 26, 2018 | Ten of the most vexing pests that prey on agriculture in North Carolina. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/06/10-of-the-most-diabolical-crop-pests-in-north-carolina-2/ |
| Issues: Regulating Gene-Edited Crops | Jennifer Kuzma | Dec 10, 2018 | This article reviews the current state of gene-editing regulation for crops, illuminating the ways in which technology developers are repeating practices that may lead to the public and ethical failures of the first generation genetically engineered crops, and argues that the contentious socio-political history of genetic engineering will repeat itself for gene editing if these continue. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/12/kuzma-issues-regulating-gene-edited-crops/ |
| GES Center Co-director Jennifer Kuzma Named AAAS Fellow | Patti Mulligan | Nov 27, 2018 | Jennifer Kuzma, Goodnight-North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Distinguished Professor in Social Sciences and co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State, elected for distinguished translational work in bridging the bench and society, advancing anticipatory governance of new technologies, and contributions to methods for oversight policy analysis. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/11/ges-center-co-director-jennifer-kuzma-named-aaas-fellow/ |
| WP: Gene-edited farm animals are coming. Will we eat them? | Patti Mulligan | Dec 18, 2018 | “We’re at this inflection point in society, where gene editing is really taking off, and now is the time we could have a more sustained public conversation about how we want it used in our world and how we don’t want it to be used,” said Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “All the polls indicate that people are less comfortable with animal biotechnology than plant biotechnology... A regulatory system cannot be based 100 percent on science or scientific risk, and values come into play when setting the standards.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/12/ap-kuzma-ge-farm-animals/ |
| AP: Kuzma discusses need for case-by-case scrutiny of gene-edited foods | Patti Mulligan | Nov 14, 2018 | Per Kuzma, companies will have to be up-front about how these new foods were made and the evidence that they’re healthy. She wants regulators to decide case-by-case which changes are no big deal and which might need more scrutiny.“Most gene-edited plants and animals are probably going to be just fine to eat. But you’re only going to do yourself a disservice in the long run if you hide behind the terminology,” Kuzma said. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/11/ap-kuzma-scrutiny-gene-edited-foods/ |
| Editing nature: Local roots of global governance | Patti Mulligan | Nov 1, 2018 | Dr. Jennifer Kuzma, Goodnight-NC GSK Foundation Distinguished Professor and Co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center, was one of the lead authors on an interdisciplinary team calling for global oversight of environmental gene editing in this Science Policy Forum, Editing Nature: Local roots of global governance. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/11/editing-nature-local-roots-of-global-governance/ |
| The Problems Driving Resistance to Bt Crops—and Some Proposed Solutions | Patti Mulligan | Oct 26, 2018 | By: DOMINIC REISIG, Entomology Today | Bt crops—those genetically engineered to produce an insecticidal toxin from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis—are special due to their benefits: reducing foliar insecticide applications, which increase populations of beneficial insects and minimize environmental harm; reducing pest populations throughout the landscape; and preserving yield, to name a few. Therefore, preventing resistance to Bt crops is important and is usually formalized in a set of Insecticide Resistance Management (IRM) practices. Because bollworm is now resistant to two Bt toxin families in cotton, IRM practices may have to change to slow resistance to other Bt toxins. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/10/problems-driving-resistance-to-bt-crops/ |
| Report: Biotechnology, the American Chestnut, and Public Engagement | Patti Mulligan | Oct 25, 2018 | In April 2018, a team of NC State faculty and students convened a stakeholder workshop to explore opportunities for public engagement surrounding the development, regulatory review, and potential deployment of a genetically engineered American chestnut tree. As perhaps the first GMO designed to spread and persist in the wild, the tree has the potential to restore a functionally extinct species, but also raises important ethical, political, ecological, and cultural questions. This report describes the workshop and its purpose, details the substance of the discussions, and offers the research team’s perspective on lessons learned and ways forward. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/10/chestnut-report/ |
| Podcast: Regulate This!: How Genetic Engineering is Regulated, with Jennifer Kuzma | Jennifer Kuzma | Oct 3, 2018 | Podcast - Regulate This!: How Genetic Engineering is Regulated Dr. Jennifer Kuzma from NC State walks us through the complicated world of regulations that control how genetically engineering plants and animals make into our world and onto our plates. Really interesting conversation with broad implications for how society regulates complex technologies. Length: 1 hour, 28 minutes | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/10/podcast-regulate-this-with-jennifer-kuzma/ |
| ‘Changing the Landscape of Graduate Education’ | Patti Mulligan | Sep 6, 2018 | GES Center to launch NSF-funded AgBioFEWS graduate program, blending natural and social sciences to train next-gen problem-solvers in agricultural biotechnology. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/09/agbiofews-nsf-graduate-training-grant-awarded/ |
| Gould quoted in C&EN: Building bioethics into the future of life sciences innovation | Patti Mulligan | Aug 27, 2018 | Scientists who refuse to engage with ethicists and the public will find themselves at a disadvantage. “Just because you are a scientist and have invented something doesn’t mean you have authority over it,” says Fred Gould, an entomologist and co-director of the Genetic Engineering & Society Center at North Carolina State University. He points to the National Academies report’s advocacy of participatory decision-making. Resistance from the science community based on ethicists and the public not fully understanding the science wears thin, he says. “You are a pretty poor scientist if you can’t explain what these things are about to an ethicist,” he says. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/08/gould-quoted-in-cen-building-bioethics-into-the-future-of-life-sciences-innovation/ |
| NBC News - Gould: Exposure levels determine toxicity of glyphosate | Patti Mulligan | Aug 17, 2018 | “With all things, it is the level of exposure that matters,” said Fred Gould, head of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “The poison is in the concentration.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/08/nbc-news-gould-exposure-levels-determine-toxicity-of-glyphosate/ |
| Washington Post: Kuzma calls for mandatory regulatory process for gene-edited foods | Patti Mulligan | Aug 13, 2018 | “We need a mandatory regulatory process: not just for scientific reasons, but for consumer and public confidence,” Kuzma said. “I think the vast majority of gene-edited foods are going to be as safe as their conventionally bred counterparts. But I don’t buy into the argument that’s true all the time for every crop.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/08/wapo-kuzma-calls-for-mandatory-regulatory-process-gene-edited-foods/ |
| Call for art for 2019 “genetic futures” exhibit | Patti Mulligan | Aug 9, 2018 | open call for art | 2019 Genetic Futures exhibit | Now accepting proposals from artists, scientists, designers, and makers. The NCSU Libraries, NC State’s Genetic Engineering and Society Center (GES), and the Gregg Museum of Art & Design have issued a public call for art for the upcoming exhibition Art’s Work in the Age of Biotechnology: Shaping our Genetic Futures. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/08/call-for-art-for-2019-genetic-futures-exhibit/ |
| EU ruling on gene-edited plants and GMOs is more status quo than disruptive | Todd Kuiken | Aug 6, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/08/eu-ruling-on-gene-edited-plants-and-gmos-is-more-status-quo-than-disruptive/ | |
| Kuzma Urges a Broader Conversation on Underlying Ethics of Gene Editing Technology | Jennifer Kuzma | Jul 19, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/07/kuzma-urges-a-broader-conversation-on-underlying-ethics-of-gene-editing-technology/ | |
| Publication: How social science should complement scientific discovery: lessons from nanoscience | Patti Mulligan | Jul 12, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/07/publication-berube-social-science-lessons-from-nanoscience/ | |
| Genome Editing in Agriculture - CAST Issue Paper | Patti Mulligan | Jul 9, 2018 | PRESS RELEASE: July 9, 2018. Twentieth-century advances in plant and animal breeding did much to help meet the increasing food, fiber, feed, and fuel needs of an expanding world. But continued population growth, resource shortages, climate change, and pest prevalence make sustainability a daunting yet essential task. Genome editing is a powerful new method that enables unprecedented control over genetic material and offers the opportunity to make rapid advances that influence agricultural practices. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/07/genome-editing-in-agriculture-cast-issue-paper/ |
| Pesticide Resistance Arms Race | Fred Gould | Jun 29, 2018 | In this episode we talk with Fred Gould, William Neal Reynolds Professor of Agriculture and Life Sciences, about the rising rates of herbicide and pesticide resistance, the current state of the resistance arms race and what we need to do in the future to protect our crops and human health from resistant pests. Length: 15 minutes | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/06/pesticide-resistance-arms-race/ |
| 10 of the Most Diabolical Crop Pests in North Carolina | newswire | Jun 26, 2018 | Ten of the most vexing pests that prey on agriculture in North Carolina. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/06/10-of-the-most-diabolical-crop-pests-in-north-carolina/ |
| Kuzma quoted on ecological impacts and regulation of GE products | Patti Mulligan | Jun 25, 2018 | To critics, the case laid bare glaring weaknesses in the country’s oversight of genetically engineered, or GE, crops. While biotechnology’s defenders say the process is already overly rigorous, others have long argued that regulations, which haven’t changed significantly since 1987, don’t do enough to protect agriculture and the environment. Neither the USDA nor any government agency must weigh the full social, economic and ecological impacts of GE products, says Jennifer Kuzma, co-director of the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University. “There’s really no place that’s looking at this broadly from a risk-benefit perspective.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/06/kuzma-regulations-and-eco-impacts-of-ge/ |
| Kuzma in Scientific American article: Weeds Are Winning in the War against Herbicide Resistance | Patti Mulligan | Jun 18, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/06/kuzma-in-sciam-weeds-are-winning/ | |
| Barrangou Wins NAS Prize in Food and Agriculture Sciences | newswire | Jan 17, 2018 | Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou adds another award to his long list of accolades: the 2018 NAS Prize in Food and Agriculture Sciences for his discovery of the genetic mechanisms and proteins driving CRISPR-Cas systems. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/01/barrangou-wins-nas-prize-in-food-and-agriculture-sciences/ |
| NC State’s Rodolphe Barrangou Elected to National Academy of Sciences | newswire | May 2, 2018 | CRISPR pioneer Rodolphe Barrangou has been elected to one of the world’s most prestigious and influential scientific societies. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/05/nc-states-rodolphe-barrangou-elected-to-national-academy-of-sciences/ |
| What Happens If We Run Out? Pesticide Resistance Needs Attention, Large-Scale Study | newswire | May 17, 2018 | How can we slow pest resistance to herbicides and pesticides? NC State researchers say large-scale studies are needed to test new strategies. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/05/what-happens-if-we-run-out-pesticide-resistance-needs-attention-large-scale-study/ |
| Think Chimpanzee Beds Are Dirtier Than Human Ones? Think Again | newswire | May 15, 2018 | Study finds that chimpanzees appear to keep tidier sleeping arrangements than humans do. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/05/think-chimpanzee-beds-are-dirtier-than-human-ones-think-again/ |
| Sciences Faculty Recognized at Celebration of Faculty Excellence | newswire | May 2, 2018 | Eight Sciences faculty were honored at the annual ceremony for winning prestigious state, national and international awards. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/05/sciences-faculty-recognized-at-celebration-of-faculty-excellence/ |
| Publication: Comparative, collaborative, and integrative risk governance for emerging technologies | Patti Mulligan | May 7, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/05/publication-comparative_collaborative_integrative_risk_governance_emerging_tech/ | |
| SciLine Briefing: Jennifer Kuzma on Gene Drives | Patti Mulligan | May 7, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/05/sciline-briefing-jennifer-kuzma-on-gene-drives/ | |
| Publication: Voluntary Programs To Encourage Refuges for Pesticide Resistance Management | Patti Mulligan | Apr 17, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/04/publication-voluntary-programs-to-encourage-refuges-for-pesticide-resistance-management/ | |
| Jennifer Kuzma in the WSJ: Referring to gene-editing as "breeding" seems disingenuous | Patti Mulligan | Apr 16, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/04/is-this-tomato-engineered-gene-edited-food/ | |
| IGERT in Peru – The Role of Rhetoric in Transgenetics | Patti Mulligan | Jul 14, 2012 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2012/07/igert-in-peru/ | |
| Student spotlight: Sophia Webster wins 1st place at Graduate Student Research Symposium | Patti Mulligan | Mar 22, 2018 | Kudos to Sophia Webster, a GES PhD candidate in Entomology and Plant Pathology, for winning first place at Graduate Student Research Symposium! Sophia is part of the 2012 IGERT cohort whose focus is mosquitoes and human health. The first IGERT course took place in Lima and Iquitos, Peru where the cohort attended tropical medicine symposiums, visited health clinics and several farms to speak with farmers. The cohort also shadowed NAMRU workers door to door in in Iquitos as the workers completed their household mosquito checks and surveys. Additionally, the cohort conducted household experiments on the density dependent effects of mosquito larvae in household containers. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/03/student-spotlight-sophia-webster/ |
| Space for the Social Sciences in Engineering Biology | Jennifer Kuzma | Mar 14, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/03/space-for-the-social-sciences-in-engineering-biology/ | |
| WIRED: Process of Elimination | Patti Mulligan | Feb 21, 2018 | A deep dive into the inception of the Genetic Biocontrol of Invasive Rodents (GBIRd) program, this article in WIRED details how Karl Campbell of Island Conservation came across GES Co-Director Fred Gould's research suggesting that the genetic engineering techniques being used to manage insect populations could also be applied to other species, like rodents. And then, what happened when CRISPR came along. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/02/wired-process-elimination/ |
| Journal of Responsible Innovation publishes 'Roadmap to Gene Drives' special issue | Patti Mulligan | Jan 26, 2018 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/01/jri-publishes-roadmap-gene-drives-special-issue/ | |
| Barrangou Wins NAS Prize in Food and Agriculture Sciences | Patti Mulligan | Jan 18, 2018 | Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou adds another award to his long list of accolades: the 2018 NAS Prize in Food and Agriculture Sciences for his discovery of the genetic mechanisms and proteins driving CRISPR-Cas systems. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/01/barrangou-wins-nas-prize-food-agriculture-sciences/ |
| Gould quoted in Nature on synthetic organisms unable to breed with wild counterparts | Patti Mulligan | Jan 16, 2018 | Fred Gould is quoted in Nature, discussing a gene editing technique designed to make interbreeding between synthetic and wild organisms impossible. The technology, which targets gene expression, could be applied to mosquitoes to control infectious diseases, such as malaria, or to invasive species, like Asian carp. "This is an ingenious system." | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2018/01/gould-quoted-nature-synthetic-organisms-unable-breed-wild-counterparts/ |
| Scientist to the Senators: Ph.D. Student Johanna Elsensohn | Patti Mulligan | Nov 21, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/scientist-senators-ph-d-student-johanna-elsensohn/ | |
| Scott Lab Research Featured During Visit from Central American Officials | Patti Mulligan | Dec 19, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/12/scott-lab-research-featured-visit-central-american-officials/ | |
| Variation at a Central Metabolic Gene Influences Male Fruit Fly Lifespan | newswire | Jun 29, 2017 | Why do females outlive males? For fruit flies, the answer can be found in the expression of an important metabolism gene. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/06/variation-at-a-central-metabolic-gene-influences-male-fruit-fly-lifespan/ |
| Mackay Wins Prestigious Wolf Prize | newswire | Jan 13, 2016 | Trudy Mackay receives one of the world’s most prestigious awards for academic achievement, a Wolf Prize. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/01/mackay-wins-prestigious-wolf-prize/ |
| The Fly Whisperer | newswire | Jun 16, 2016 | Pioneering geneticist Trudy Mackay’s work with fruit flies is influencing scientists around the world and leading to important discoveries. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/06/the-fly-whisperer/ |
| CALS, Premex Build Synergistic Relationship | newswire | Jul 28, 2017 | An NC State partnership with international animal nutrition company extends beyond workforce development to research sponsorship and philanthropy. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/07/cals-premex-build-synergistic-relationship/ |
| Student Spotlight: Mike Jones and the Economics of Cutting-Edge Ag Technology | newswire | Nov 14, 2017 | The academic journey of Ph.D. student Mike Jones spans Peruvian potato fields and the irrigated deserts of Syria to NC State’s campus, where he investigates the impacts and public perception of cutting-edge agricultural technology. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/student-spotlight-mike-jones-and-the-economics-of-cutting-edge-ag-technology/ |
| NC State’s Barrangou Wins Canada Gairdner Award | newswire | Mar 23, 2016 | Rodolphe Barrangou wins prestigious Gairdner Award for pioneering the gene-editing system known as CRISPR. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/03/nc-states-barrangou-wins-canada-gairdner-award/ |
| Barrangou Wins Warren Alpert Foundation Prize | newswire | Mar 9, 2016 | Rodolphe Barrangou shares prestigious award for his pioneering work on the revolutionary gene-editing system known as CRISPR. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/03/barrangou-wins-warren-alpert-foundation-prize/ |
| NC State’s Barrangou Receives Canada Gairdner International Award | newswire | Nov 4, 2016 | Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou received the prestigious Canada Gairdner International Award in an Oct. 27 ceremony in Toronto. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/11/nc-states-barrangou-receives-canada-gairdner-international-award/ |
| Resistance Remedies | newswire | Jun 7, 2016 | College of Agriculture and Life Sciences researchers John Cavanagh and Rodolphe Barrangou are among the NC State scientists working on different approaches to fighting antibiotic-resistant bacteria. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/06/resistance-remedies/ |
| 2015-16 Faculty Scholars Named | newswire | Nov 16, 2015 | Chancellor Randy Woodson announces this year’s University Faculty Scholars, high-performing faculty members recognized for their significant achievements in scholarship, teaching and service. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/11/2015-16-faculty-scholars-named/ |
| U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brings Listening Tour to NC State | newswire | Oct 6, 2017 | A multi-state listening tour brought Sonny Perdue to NC State University, where he heard repeatedly about the importance of communicating with and educating the public about the importance of agricultural innovation to rural prosperity. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/10/u-s-secretary-of-agriculture-brings-listening-tour-to-nc-state/ |
| Honoring Outstanding Faculty | newswire | May 5, 2016 | NC State recognized 33 outstanding faculty members at the 2016 Celebration of Faculty Excellence on May 3. The annual event honors faculty who have won prestigious state, national and international awards and accolades throughout the academic year. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/05/honoring-outstanding-faculty/ |
| Spellings Wowed by NC State Visit | newswire | Apr 21, 2016 | New UNC President Margaret Spellings spent Wednesday touring NC State’s campus with Chancellor Randy Woodson. While here, she met with students, faculty, staff and industry leaders with ties to Centennial Campus. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/04/spellings-wowed-by-nc-state-visit/ |
| New Tools Allow Rapid ID of CRISPR-Cas System PAMs | newswire | Mar 31, 2016 | CRISPR-Cas systems are widely heralded as a new generation of genetic tools. But development of these tools requires researchers to identify the protospacer-adjacent motifs (PAMs) that unlock each system’s functionality. A new set of techniques expedites PAM identification — and early testing finds that many CRISPR-Cas systems actually have multiple PAMs of varying strength. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/03/new-tools-allow-rapid-id-of-crispr-cas-system-pams/ |
| Personality Changes Can Affect Fish Body Shape, Locomotion | newswire | Jun 3, 2016 | A new NC State study shows that personality can be linked to other seemingly unrelated traits in animals like fish. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/06/personality-changes-can-affect-fish-body-shape-locomotion/ |
| Leadership in Public Science: Meet Jean Goodwin | newswire | Jun 7, 2017 | Leadership in Public Science cluster member Jean Goodwin studies how scientists and the public communicate with each other. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/06/leadership-in-public-science-meet-jean-goodwin/ |
| Jennifer Kuzma on Institute for Emerging Issues First in Future podcast | Patti Mulligan | Dec 12, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/12/jennifer-kuzma-institute-emerging-issues-first-future-podcast/ | |
| NASEM Sackler SciComm: The promise and perils of gene drives | Patti Mulligan | Jan 15, 2019 | In November of 2017, an interdisciplinary panel discussed the complexities of gene drive applications as part of the third Sackler Colloquium on “The Science of Science Communication.” This paper builds on the ideas and conversations from the session to provide a more nuanced discussion about the context surrounding responsible communication and decision-making for cases of post-normal science. Deciding to use gene drives to control and suppress pests will involve more than a technical assessment of the risks involved, and responsible decision-making regarding their use will require concerted efforts from multiple actors. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2019/01/video-fred-gould-gene-drives-nasem-sackler-scicomm/ |
| Gene Drives and Responsible Innovation | Patti Mulligan | Dec 8, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/12/gene-drives-responsible-innovation/ | |
| Funders respond to NASEM Gene Drive study | Patti Mulligan | Dec 1, 2017 | Funders of the National Academy of Sciences consensus study Gene Drives on the Horizon (2016) have published a response to the report in the December 2017 issue of Science. The study summarized "current understanding of the scientific discoveries related to gene drives and their accompanying ethical, legal, and social implications," and was co-authored by Dr. Jason Delborne, associate professor of science, policy and society in the College of Natural Resources and executive committee member of the GES Center. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/12/funders-respond-nasem-gene-drive-study/ |
| Jason Delborne appointed to National Academies Forest Biotech Study Committee | Patti Mulligan | Nov 30, 2017 | Dr. Jason Delborne has been appointed to the National Academies of Sciences provisional committee on The Potential for Biotechnology to Address Forest Health, or Forest Biotech Study. The study will be looking at the potential uses of biotechnology to mitigate threats to forest tree health, identify ecological, ethical, and societal implications of using this technology in forests, and develop an agenda to address knowledge gaps in its application. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/jason-delborne-appointed-national-academies-forest-biotech-study-committee/ |
| Genetic Engineering may not solve Africa's fall armyworm problems | Patti Mulligan | Nov 17, 2017 | The fall armyworm which is a major pest of corn in the western hemisphere has become an invasive pest in Africa in the past few years. Some groups are calling for use of Bt corn as a solution. In this video Dr. Gould describes why it would take great dedication and large resources in money and people to use this approach in an equitable and sustainable manner. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/genetic-engineering-may-not-solve-africas-fall-armyworm-problems/ |
| Jason Delborne addresses CRISPR gene drives controversy in NYTimes, Quanta, and Gizmodo | Patti Mulligan | Nov 17, 2017 | GES Faculty member Jason Delborne addresses two controversial new papers in several articles published this week on the safety of field testing CRISPR gene drives in the wild. With links to articles in New York Times, Quanta, Gizmodo and The Atlantic. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/jason-delborne-addresses-crispr-gene-drives-controversy-nytimes-quanta/ |
| IGERT Student Jennifer Baltzegar wins Entomology poster contest | Patti Mulligan | Nov 13, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/igert-jennifer-baltzegar-wins-entomology-poster-contest/ | |
| Politics "Trumps" Science in the Regulation of Genetically Engineered Crops | Jennifer Kuzma | Nov 7, 2017 | In recent years, the regulatory system for biotechnology products has not kept pace with newer ways of engineering organisms, such as through the use of gene editing like CRISPR-Cas9 systems. Under the Obama administration, progress had been made in clarifying U.S. biotechnology regulations. In January 2017, in the last few days of Obama’s term, several proposals were made for updating agency regulations and guidance documents. In particular, new US USDA regulations were proposed for GE crops. Fast forward ten months, and the Trump administration has pulled this proposed rule back to “start fresh” and reconsider the issue. This is no surprise, as it is not uncommon for new political administrations to recall regulatory policy for biotech. Many industry and academic scientists developing GE crops are pleased to hear about the Trump administration’s recall of USDA proposed regulations. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/politics-trumps-science-regulation-genetically-engineered-crops/ |
| Genetic Literacy Project: USDA scraps overhaul of GMO and gene edited crop regulations that biotech advocates viewed as 'unscientific' | Patti Mulligan | Nov 7, 2017 | “I think the real reason [for the withdrawal] is that the new proposed rule would have brought more gene-edited crops under its authority,” stated Kuzma. “And this new administration isn’t too fond of regulations in general.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/usda-scraps-overhaul-gmo-gene-edited-crop-regulations-biotech-advocates-viewed-unscientific/ |
| Scientific American: Could Genetic Engineering Save the Galápagos? | Patti Mulligan | Nov 7, 2017 | Campbell first became intrigued by the possibilities of gene drive in 2011, when he sat in on a conference call between biologists at NC State University and officials of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to discuss a possible genetic approach to control a runaway mouse problem on Southeast Farallon Island, about 20 miles west of the California coast, near San Francisco. John Godwin, a North Carolina State neurobiologist who studies animal behavior, had learned of the Farallon issue while skimming the Internet in 2011. He happened to be at a university with an established infrastructure dedicated to experimenting with—and considering the ethical implications of—genetic manipulation. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/scientific-american-genetic-engineering-save-galapagos/ |
| Science: Trump's agriculture department reverses course on biotech rules | Patti Mulligan | Nov 7, 2017 | It’s a predictable move by President Donald Trump’s White House to take another look at the policies of the previous administration, says Jennifer Kuzma, a social scientist who co-directs the Genetic Engineering and Society Center at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. “I expected them to eventually catch wind that this was something that USDA was doing, and reverse it.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/science-trumps-agriculture-department-reverses-course-biotech-rules/ |
| Our (Possible) Genetic Futures | Patti Mulligan | Nov 3, 2017 | As crowds poured into Raleigh’s contemporary art museum during the April 2017 art walk, one white wall began to fill with hand-written messages scribbled on neon Post-It notes. Above was a sign: Write down one word describing how you feel about your genetic future. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/11/possible-genetic-futures/ |
| IGERT Student Jessica Barnes wins poster contest at 2017 American Chestnut Foundation meeting | Patti Mulligan | Oct 23, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/10/igert-jessica-barnes-wins-2017-acf-poster-contest/ | |
| Godwin and Delborne discuss CRISPR and ethics at NC Museum of Science | Patti Mulligan | Oct 2, 2017 | GES faculty John Godwin and Jason Delborne were at the NC Museum of History on 9.28.17 discussing genetic biocontrol of pest populations, such as CRISPR gene drives to eliminate invasive rodents from islands to protect endangered seabirds. See PowerPoint presentation & livestream video (including slides). | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/10/godwin-delborne-discuss-crispr-ethics-nc-museum-science/ |
| Scientific American article on public acceptance of CRISPR features Delborne and Kuzma | Patti Mulligan | Oct 2, 2017 | “Without transparency, we might see a kind of hyperpolarization,” says Jason Delborne, a professor of science, policy and society at North Carolina State University. Concerned groups will feel marginalized, and advocates won't receive critical feedback needed to improve design and safety. “This puts the technology at risk of a knee-jerk moratorium at the first sign of difficulty,” he notes. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/10/scientific-american-article-public-acceptance-crispr-features-delborne-kuzma/ |
| Upgrading Biosafety and Biosecurity: Open Philanthropy awards $700K for DIYbio | Patti Mulligan | Sep 22, 2017 | “For the last six years, Todd and I have been exploring the best ways to ensure the healthy growth of community labs as safe and secure resources for public education and biotech innovation,” says Grushkin. “This grant will help us codify best practices in these often unconventional spaces.” | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/09/upgrading-biosafety-biosecurity-at-diybio-labs/ |
| Kuzma examines benefits, regulation of gene edited crops in EMBO | Patti Mulligan | Sep 21, 2017 | In this article, published by EMBOpress, researchers look at how new genetic-engineering (GE) technologies based on gene editing can help to generate crop varieties to address critical challenges in agricultural development. However, governance systems for these crops are poorly defined and currently uncertain. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/09/kuzma-research-gene-edited-crops-benefits-regulation/ |
| Barrangou Wins 2017 NAS Award in Molecular Biology | newswire | Jan 23, 2017 | Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou of the Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences adds a National Academy of Sciences award to his growing list of accolades. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/01/barrangou-wins-2017-nas-award-in-molecular-biology/ |
| Bacterial Genome Scalpel Can Identify Key Gene Regions | newswire | Jun 15, 2015 | Bacteria have a system for ridding genomes of unwanted DNA sequences. But how does the system work in bacteria? NC State researchers find out. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/06/bacterial-genome-scalpel-can-identify-key-gene-regions/ |
| NC State’s Sederoff Honored for Molecular Genetics Work With Forest Trees | Patti Mulligan | Mar 17, 2017 | An international prize goes to Ron Sederoff, a forestry professor whose research has given us a better understanding of forest trees’ biology and accelerated advances in plant breeding. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/03/nc-states-sederoff-honored-for-molecular-genetics-work-with-forest-trees/ |
| NC State Honors Outstanding Faculty | newswire | May 4, 2017 | NC State recognized 28 faculty members for their dedication to teaching, learning, research and service during the 2017 Celebration of Faculty Excellence on May 2. The annual event honors faculty who have won prestigious state, national and international awards and created new knowledge and advancements in their respective disciplines. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/05/nc-state-honors-outstanding-faculty/ |
| The Importance of Seeds: a Q&A with Rob Dunn | newswire | Mar 30, 2017 | There is little genetic diversity among the crops that are most important for feeding people around the world. Rob Dunn’s new book explores this issue and why it matters. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/03/the-importance-of-seeds-a-qa-with-rob-dunn/ |
| It’s a Boy: Modified Male Flies Could More Efficiently Control Screwworm Population | newswire | Sep 1, 2016 | Suppressing populations of devastating pests may be easier with the release of genetically modified males. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/09/its-a-boy-modified-male-flies-could-more-efficiently-control-screwworm-population/ |
| Study IDs Ways to Encourage ‘Refuge’ Planting, Slowing Resistance to Bt Crops | newswire | Apr 3, 2017 | A study finds a shortfall in the amount of “refuge” cropland being planted in NC – increasing the rate at which crop pests evolve the ability to devour genetically engineered Bt crops. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/04/study-ids-ways-to-encourage-refuge-planting-slowing-resistance-to-bt-crops/ |
| Biomedical Engineer Zhen Gu Named to Tech Review’s Top Innovators Under 35 | newswire | Aug 18, 2015 | Zhen Gu, an assistant professor in NC State and UNC-Chapel Hill’s joint biomedical engineering program, has been named one of MIT Technology Review’s “Innovators Under 35” for his work on developing novel drug-delivery systems for treating cancer and diabetes. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/08/biomedical-engineer-zhen-gu-named-to-tech-reviews-top-innovators-under-35/ |
| Public Response to New Technologies in Food Depends on the Type of Tech | newswire | Jul 14, 2015 | A recent study highlights the complexity of determining how the public will respond to incorporating nanotechnology or genetic modification into food products. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/07/public-response-to-new-technologies-in-food-depends-on-the-type-of-tech/ |
| New Tool Can Help Policymakers Prioritize Information Needs for Synthetic Biology Tech | newswire | Jan 17, 2017 | Researchers have developed a model that can be used to assess emerging synthetic biology products to determine what needs to be done to inform future policies. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/01/new-tool-can-help-policymakers-prioritize-information-needs-for-synthetic-biology-tech/ |
| Mosquitoes, Zika and Biotech Regulation | Patti Mulligan | Sep 16, 2016 | Biotech policy expert Jennifer Kuzma argues that authorities are missing an opportunity to revise outdated rules related to modern innovations in biotechnology. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/09/mosquitoes-zika-and-biotech-regulation/ |
| NAS Committee Responds to Critique of Gene Engineering Report | newswire | Apr 12, 2017 | NC State’s Fred Gould, who led a National Academies committee that issued a 2016 report on genetically engineered crops, pens a letter in Nature Biotechnology to respond to a report critique. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/04/nas-committee-responds-to-critique-of-gene-engineering-report/ |
| Gould discusses genetically engineered crops | newswire | May 17, 2016 | As the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine release the report “Genetically Engineered Crops: Experience and Prospects,” the chair of the authoring committee says that NC State University can become a model for conducting advanced, trusted research in GE crop development. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/05/gould-discusses-genetically-engineered-crops/ |
| Field Study Shows How a GM Crop Can Have Diminishing Success at Fighting Off Insect Pest | newswire | May 20, 2015 | Research finds the toxin in a widely used GM crop is having little impact on the crop pest called corn earworm – which is consistent with predictions made almost 20 years ago that were largely ignored. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/05/field-study-shows-how-a-gm-crop-can-have-diminishing-success-at-fighting-off-insect-pest/ |
| Sophia Webster | newswire | Jul 10, 2017 | Graduate student Sophia Webster is trying to fight Zika by engineering mosquitoes that won’t spread the disease. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/07/sophia-webster/ |
| Let’s Subtract Zika | newswire | Aug 18, 2016 | Math professor Alun Lloyd is combining math and biology to investigate the spread of infectious diseases like Zika and find ways to stamp them out. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/08/lets-subtract-zika/ |
| Assessing the Positive and Negative Claims About Genetically Engineered Crops | newswire | May 17, 2016 | Genetically engineered crops stir strong feelings from both critics and supporters. We talk to the researcher who chaired the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine committee that just released a report, “Genetically Engineered Crops: Experience and Prospects,” which examines the evidence behind positive and negative claims about GE crops, and the research challenges that lie ahead. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/05/assessing-the-positive-and-negative-claims-about-genetically-engineered-crops/ |
| Keeping Up With the Fast-Moving Science of Gene Drives | Patti Mulligan | Jun 8, 2016 | NC State’s Jason Delborne, an expert in science and technology policy and public engagement, answers questions about the emerging science of gene drives. Delborne helped develop a National Academies report on gene drives and unveil it in Washington, D.C. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/06/keeping-up-with-the-fast-moving-science-of-gene-drives/ |
| NC State Receives DARPA Funding to Develop, Test Gene Drive System | newswire | Aug 3, 2017 | Developing and testing a gene drive system to reduce invasive mouse populations is the focus of a DARPA-funded research project. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/08/nc-state-receives-darpa-funding-to-develop-test-gene-drive-system/ |
| USDA Grants $6.7M to Curb Fruit Pest | newswire | Oct 15, 2015 | NC State entomologist Hannah Burrack will lead a four-year effort to manage the spotted wing drosophila, a tiny fruit fly that causes hundreds of millions of dollars in annual agricultural losses. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/10/usda-grants-6-7m-to-curb-fruit-pest/ |
| New Class Covers Regulatory Affairs for Biotech, Crop Protection | newswire | Dec 19, 2016 | To introduce students to the complex world of state, national and international regulations governing agricultural biotechnology, pesticides and biological products, NC State offered a one-of-a-kind course this fall. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/12/new-class-covers-regulatory-affairs-for-biotech-crop-protection/ |
| NC State Receives DARPA Funding to Develop, Test Gene Drive System | Patti Mulligan | Aug 4, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/08/nc-state-receives-darpa-funding-gene-drive-system/ | |
| GES IGERT Students Research Deployment of Gene Drive Insects | Patti Mulligan | Aug 4, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/08/ges-igert-students-research-deployment-gene-drive-insects/ | |
| GES Co-Directors Gould and Kuzma Quoted in Audubon Story on Using Gene Drives to Save Island Birds | Patti Mulligan | Jul 11, 2017 | A new story in Audubon Magazine, How Genetically Modified Mice Could One Day Save Island Birds, features quotes from GES Co-Directors Dr. Fred Gould and Dr. Jennifer Kuzma. The article tells the story of how Dr. John Godwin, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences, and Ph.D. student Megan Serr became part of GBIRd (Genetic Biocontrol of Invasive Rodents), a global partnership working to save island birds from extinction by using the cutting-edge (and controversial) CRISPR and gene drive technologies to eradicate invasive species of mice. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/07/ges-directors-quoted-in-audubon-story-on-using-gene-drives-to-save-island-birds/ |
| Overcoming Challenges to Infusing Ethics into the Development of Engineers: Proceedings of a Workshop (2017) | Patti Mulligan | Jul 7, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/07/overcoming-challenges-to-infusing-ethics-into-the-development-of-engineers/ | |
| Synthetic Microorganisms for Agricultural Use | Patti Mulligan | Jul 6, 2017 | By 2050, the world’s population is estimated to exceed 9 billion people. A challenge to this rising food demand is that crops will have to be grown on the same or less land as today. Additionally, global climate change is causing considerable uncertainty in the ability of the current food production system to adapt to an unknown future. To address these issues sustainably, scientists from many disciplines have been investigating ways to increase crop yields and prepare for a changing climate. Considerable effort has focused on enhancing the traits of the crop plants themselves, to enhance their growth, make them resistant to disease, or tolerant to environmental stressors like drought or high salinity conditions. Conversely, a growing area of research is looking at how microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, influence these plant characteristics. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/07/synthetic-microorganisms-for-agricultural-use-2017-01/ |
| Todd Kuiken in BioCoder: Citizen Health Innovators | Patti Mulligan | May 5, 2017 | They say that necessity is the mother of invention. Many would argue that their greatest necessity is health. So what happens when treatments are ineffective or unavailable? Today, in the age of crowdfunding, some people are taking matters into their own hands and developing their own treatments, including surgical techniques, gene therapies and molecular therapies. GES Senior Research Scholar Dr. Todd Kuiken, together with international science policy expert Eleonore Pauwels, of The Wilson Center, explores the risks, regulatory issues, and implications of the emerging DIY, "patient-powered" health research movement in the Spring 2017 issue of BioCoder. | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/05/todd-kuiken-biocoder-article-on-citizen-health-innovators-now-available-in-print/ |
| Jennifer Kuzma quoted in Slate on biotech regulatory issues | Patti Mulligan | May 3, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/05/jennifer-kuzma-quoted-in-slate-on-biotech-regulatory-issues/ | |
| Zack Brown publishes article in Choices on the 'Economic, Regulatory and International Implications of Gene Drives in Agriculture" | Patti Mulligan | May 3, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/05/zack-brown-publishes-article-in-choices-on-the-economic-regulatory-and-international-implications-of-gene-drives-in-agriculture/ | |
| Todd Kuiken publishes Slate article discussing concerns with DARPA's SynBio Initiatives | Patti Mulligan | May 3, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/05/kuiken-in-slate-re-concerns-over-darpa-synbio-initiatives/ | |
| Todd Kuiken quoted in Atlantic article on failure of glowing plant kickstarter | Patti Mulligan | Apr 28, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/04/todd-kuiken-quoted-in-atlantic-article-on-failure-of-glowing-plant-kickstarter/ | |
| Jennifer Kuzma publishes Trails and Trials in Biotechnology Policy | Patti Mulligan | Apr 28, 2017 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2017/04/kuzma-publishes-trails-and-trials-in-biotechnology-policy/ | |
| GES faculty featured in Bay Nature Magazine | Patti Mulligan | Jul 1, 2016 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/07/ges-faculty-featured-in-bay-nature-magazine/ | |
| FDA approves genetically modified mosquitoes for release in Florida | Patti Mulligan | Aug 5, 2016 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/08/fda-approves-genetically-modified-mosquitoes-for-release-in-florida/ | |
| Jennifer Kuzma was appointed as a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Council on The Future of Technology, Values, and Policy. | Patti Mulligan | Sep 1, 2016 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2016/09/jennifer-kuzma-was-appointed-as-a-member-of-the-world-economic-forums-global-council-on-the-future-of-technology-values-and-policy/ | |
| Sign up for our mailing list! | Patti Mulligan | Jan 1, 2015 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/2015/01/testing-email/ |
See all Faculty Publications
| Full Citation | Article (Click +/- beside the title to show/hide full citation and additional details) | Affiliate(s) | Abstract | Significance | Keywords | Altmetric | |||||||
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| Grieger, K., Bourne, K., Deviney, A., & Barry, N. (2025, December 9). Six key steps for stakeholder engagement. i2Insights. https://i2insights.org/2025/12/09/six-steps-for-stakeholder-engagement | Six key steps for stakeholder engagement | Khara Grieger, Nourou Barry | 2025 | 12/9/2025 | How can you systematically plan stakeholder engagement? What are the key issues that need to be considered? What guiding questions can help? | In a piece for i2Insights, the authors outline a six-step framework developed at the STEPS Center for designing and carrying out stakeholder engagement—from clarifying goals and recruiting participants to synthesizing results and improving future practice. Their approach, grounded in research on phosphorus sustainability, highlights practical questions that teams can use to guide each stage of the process. It also raises an invitation to others working in different domains: Which steps resonate with your own experience? What additional issues or tools shape your engagement planning? | Stakeholder engagement, phosphorus, sustainability, wicked problems | https://i2insights.org/2025/12/09/six-steps-for-stakeholder-engagement | Integration and Implementation Insights | ||||
| Koivusaari, K., Aimutis, W.R., Sanders, K., Schroeder-Moreno, M., Hill, D., Consavage Stanley, K., Shirwaiker, R., Grieger, K. (2025). An Extension Guide to Alternative Proteins. NC State Extension. Retrieved from https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/an-extension-guide-to-alternative-proteins. PDF. Graphic | An Extension Guide to Alternative Proteins | Khara Grieger, Katie Sanders | 2025 | 10/8/2025 | Alternative proteins offer a promising way to meet rising global demand for protein as the population grows and natural resources become increasingly strained. Produced through plants, fermentation, or cell cultivation, these protein options may reduce environmental impacts such as land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. They also provide nutritious, cholesterol-free, and fiber-rich choices that appeal to a range of dietary preferences, from vegetarian to flexitarian. By diversifying food systems, alternative proteins can contribute to both food security and sustainable agriculture. | Alternative proteins, Sustainability, Food systems, Food manufacturing, Genetic engineering | https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/an-extension-guide-to-alternative-proteins | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/An-Extension-Guide-to-Alternative-Proteins_NCSU_2025.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Extension-Guide-to-Alt-Proteins_NCSU_2025_full.jpg | NC State University Extension Services | |||
| Loschin, N., Kuzma, J., Barrangou, R., & Grieger, K. (2025). Environmental assessment and regulatory oversight of genetically engineered crops in the United States. Environmental Science & Policy, 173, 104237. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104237. PDF. Graphic. Podcast | Environmental assessment and regulatory oversight of genetically engineered crops in the United States | Nick Loschin, Jennifer Kuzma, Rodolphe Barrangou, Khara Grieger | 2025 | 10/7/2025 | Biotechnology advancements are rapidly shaping the future of food and agriculture with genetic engineering tools utilizing both classical transgenic methods and cutting-edge genome editing techniques such as CRISPR. These advancements have expanded the development of crops with novel traits, with a wide range of applications. At the same time, the regulatory system and assessment processes have struggled to keep pace with these rapid innovations and techniques. Notably, this can be an issue when investigating the potential environmental impacts in the development and production of these crops due to the complexity and temporal nature of potential risks. This study explores how environmental assessments for genetically engineered crops have been and are currently being conducted in the United States. This was done by outlining the regulatory framework and environmental assessment processes across federal agencies and then examining five case studies that reflect both incumbent and rising genetic engineering techniques. The robustness of the environmental assessment was evaluated for each case based on the submitted information and the depth of analysis conducted. Conclusions from this study gleaned three major recommendations: (1) the need for governance systems keeping pace with novel innovations, (2) an overall strengthening of environmental oversight for genetically engineered crops, and (3) the need for transparency throughout the assessment processes. This research aims to foster improved environmental assessment and governance practices for novel applications of genetic engineering in food and agriculture systems. | This study aimed to clarify and evaluate the environmental oversight process for GE crops in the U.S. by analyzing publicly available information and literature on governance and regulatory responsibilities, particularly those of the EPA and USDA. We examined five case studies to assess the robustness of environmental evaluations as GE crops moved through the U.S. regulatory system. Our analysis revealed three key takeaways about the governance of GE crops that should be considered to strengthen environmental assessment and oversight practices. First, regulatory frameworks must keep pace with advances in biotechnology. Second, environmental oversight of GE crops should be strengthened by expanding assessment parameters beyond traditional evaluations and strengthening environmental monitoring. Third, transparency and engagement in the oversight process must be strengthened. As GE technologies and applications continue to evolve and expand (e.g., sprayable RNAi and spray-on genome editing), and regulators decide what is needed in their oversight, this study offers insights into improving environmental assessment procedures. By illustrating both strengths and limitations in the current system, this research aims to foster more effective and adaptive regulatory practices for GE crops in a globally integrated food and agriculture supply chain. It may also be applicable to a global geopolitical context as countries across the world continue to adapt their regulations and oversight with novel biotechnology innovations. | Biotechnology Regulation, Genetic Engineering, Genome Editing, Environmental Assessment, Regulatory Oversight, Biotechnology Governance, Emerging Technologies | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104237 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1462901125002539 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Loschin-et-al-Env-assess-reg-oversight-GE-crops_ESD_2025.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Loschin-et-al-Env-assess-reg-oversight-GE-crops_ESP_2025_full.jpg | 10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104237 | Environmental Science & Policy |
| Grieger, K., Barry, N., Bourne, K., Deviney, A., Elser, J. J., Scholz, M., & Jones, J. L. (2025). Engaging stakeholders in phosphorus sustainability: Challenges, lessons learned, and implications for addressing other wicked problems. Elementa, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1525/elementa.2024.00060. PDF. Graphic. Podcast | Engaging stakeholders in phosphorus sustainability: Challenges, lessons learned, and implications for addressing other wicked problems | Khara Grieger, Nourou Barry | 2025 | 9/16/2025 | To address wicked problems, particularly in sustainability, interdisciplinary solutions that bridge science and society are essential. These solutions inevitably require the involvement of diverse stakeholders. However, the field of stakeholder engagement includes a wide range of approaches, and there is no universally agreed-upon set of standard practices for engagement, particularly in wicked problem contexts. This article addresses this gap by connecting scientific knowledge on stakeholder engagement with an exploration of its challenges, drawing from both the broader literature and the authors’ own experiences in sustainability contexts. In particular, this article first identifies and briefly reviews 6 key steps and best practices for stakeholder engagement, and then discusses challenges and lessons learned from engaging stakeholders in the context of phosphorus sustainability largely within U.S. contexts. Phosphorus sustainability is a valuable case study due to its vital role in supporting global agriculture and societal functioning, while also contributing to environmental challenges caused by excess runoff, among other issues. Reflecting on both best practices and our own experiences, we identify 3 key challenges to engaging stakeholders in phosphorus sustainability: (i) managing the inherent tensions between breadth and depth of engagement, (ii) difficulties in evaluating the collective impact of engagement, and (iii) building sufficient capacity in carrying out engagement. To address these limitations, we highlight lessons we have learned in our own engagement efforts and provide recommendations for future research on stakeholder engagement, particularly in the context of wicked sustainability problems. | This article by Grieger et al. (2025) shows how structured stakeholder engagement can advance phosphorus sustainability and other complex environmental challenges. Drawing on the STEPS Center’s work, it highlights best practices across engagement stages and identifies persistent hurdles like balancing breadth and depth, measuring impact, and building institutional support. The piece offers a practical framework for aligning science, policy, and communities in tackling “wicked” sustainability problems. | Stakeholder engagement, phosphorus, sustainability, wicked problems | https://doi.org/10.1525/elementa.2024.00060 | https://online.ucpress.edu/elementa/article/13/1/00060/213265/Engaging-stakeholders-in-phosphorus-sustainability | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Grieger-et-al_Engaging-stakeholders-P-Sust_Elementa_2025.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/POD_S1E5_Grieger_Engaging-stakeholders-P-Sustainability.jpg | 10.1525/elementa.2024.00060 | Elementa |
| Horgan, M. D., Cummings, C. L., Kuzma, J., Dahlstrom, M., Cimadori, I., Cuchiara, M., Larter, C., Loschin, N., & Grieger, K. D. (2025). Beyond the Hype: Stakeholder Perceptions of Nanotechnology and Genetic Engineering for Sustainable Food Production. Sustainability, 17(15), 6795. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156795. PDF. Graphic. Podcast | Beyond the Hype: Stakeholder Perceptions of Nanotechnology and Genetic Engineering for Sustainable Food Production | Christopher L. Cummings, Jennifer Kuzma, Ilaria Cimadori, Nick Loschin, Khara Grieger | 2025 | 7/25/2025 | Ensuring sustainable food systems is an urgent global priority as populations grow and environmental pressures mount. Technological innovations such as genetic engineering (GE) and nanotechnology (nano) have been promoted as promising pathways for achieving greater sustainability in agriculture and food production. Yet, the sustainability of these technologies is not defined by technical performance alone; it hinges on how they are perceived by key stakeholders and how well they align with broader societal values. This study addresses the critical question of how expert stakeholders evaluate the sustainability of GE and nano-based food and agriculture (agrifood) products. Using a multi-method online platform, we engaged 42 experts across academia, government, industry, and NGOs in the United States to assess six real-world case studies—three using GE and three using nano—across ten different dimensions of sustainability. We show that nano-based products were consistently rated more favorably than their GE counterparts in terms of environmental, economic, and social sustainability, as well as across ethical and societal dimensions. Like prior studies, our results reveal that stakeholders see meaningful distinctions between nanotechnology and biotechnology, likely due to underlying value-based concerns about animal welfare, perceived naturalness, or corporate control of agrifood systems. The fruit coating and flu vaccine—both nano-enabled—received the most positive ratings, while GE mustard greens and salmon were the most polarizing. These results underscore the importance of incorporating stakeholder perspectives in technology assessment and innovation governance. These results also suggest that responsible innovation efforts in agrifood systems should prioritize communication, addressing meaningful societal needs, and the contextual understanding of societal values to build trust and legitimacy. | Technological innovations such as genetic engineering (GE) and nanotechnology (nano) have been promoted as promising pathways for achieving greater sustainability in agriculture and food production. Yet, the sustainability of these technologies is not defined by technical performance alone; it hinges on how they are perceived by key stakeholders and how well they align with broader societal values. This study addresses the critical question of how expert stakeholders evaluate the sustainability of GE and nano-based food and agriculture (agrifood) products. | Agrifood technologies; Genetic engineering; Nanotechnology; Perceptions of sustainability; Stakeholder engagement; Responsible innovation; Technology governance | https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156795 | https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/17/15/6795 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/sustainability-17-06795.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Horgan-et-al_Stakeholder-perceptions-of-nano-and-ge-in-food_Sustainability_2025_full.jpg | 10.3390/su17156795 | Sustainability |
| Oates, C. C., Grieger, K., Emanuel, R., & Nelson, N. G. (2025). Surface waters in socially vulnerable areas are disproportionately under-monitored for nutrients in the US South Atlantic-Gulf region. Nature Water, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1038/s44221-025-00460-5. | Surface waters in socially vulnerable areas are disproportionately under-monitored for nutrients in the US South Atlantic-Gulf region | Khara Grieger | 2025 | 7/15/2025 | This study investigates whether active water quality monitoring stations are proportionately distributed across communities of varying social vulnerability. We specifically focus on nutrient monitoring of surface waters in the South Atlantic-Gulf region, a water-rich area with wide-ranging land uses and communities that span the social vulnerability spectrum. We used 2018–2022 data from the US Water Quality Portal to compare station locations to metrics from the US Centers for Disease Control Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) and hydrography from the US Geological Survey. Statistical analyses revealed a substantial imbalance in the distribution of active monitoring station placements, with more monitoring stations in lower vulnerability areas and fewer in high vulnerability areas, and patterns that vary by state. Stations were clustered in areas of similar SVI values; areas were less likely to be monitored if they were near tracts with differing SVI values. | Water quality, Nutrient monitoring, Social vulnerability, Hydrography | https://doi.org/10.1038/s44221-025-00460-5 | https://www.nature.com/articles/s44221-025-00460-5 | 10.1038/s44221-025-00460-5 | Nature Water | |||
| Bacheva, V., Madison, I., Baldwin, M., Baker, J., Beilstein, M., Call, D. F., Deaver, J. A., Efimenko, K., Genzer, J., Grieger, K., . . . Stroock, A. D. (2025). Transdisciplinary Collaborations for Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Agricultural Systems. Global Change Biology, 31(4), e70142. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.70142. PDF | Transdisciplinary Collaborations for Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Agricultural Systems | Khara Grieger | 2025 | 4/8/2025 | Feeding the growing human population sustainably amidst climate change is one of the most important challenges in the 21st century. Current practices often lead to the overuse of agronomic inputs, such as synthetic fertilizers and water, resulting in environmental contamination and diminishing returns on crop productivity. The complexity of agricultural systems, involving plant-environment interactions and human management, presents significant scientific and technical challenges for developing sustainable practices. Addressing these challenges necessitates transdisciplinary research, involving intense collaboration among fields such as plant science, engineering, computer science, and social sciences. Five case studies are presented here demonstrating successful transdisciplinary approaches toward more sustainable water and fertilizer use. These case studies span multiple scales. By leveraging whole-plant signaling, reporter plants can transform our understanding of plant communication and enable efficient application of water and fertilizers. The use of new fertilizer technologies could increase the availability of phosphorus in the soil. To accelerate advancements in breeding new cultivars, robotic technologies for high-throughput plant screening in different environments at a population scale are discussed. At the ecosystem scale, phosphorus recovery from aquatic systems and methods to minimize phosphorus leaching are described. Finally, as agricultural outputs affect all people, integration of stakeholder perspectives and needs into research is outlined. These case studies highlight how transdisciplinary research and cross-training among biologists, engineers, and social scientists bring diverse expertise to tackling grand challenges in sustainable agriculture, driving discovery and innovation. | These case studies highlight how transdisciplinary research and cross-training among biologists, engineers, and social scientists bring diverse expertise to tackling grand challenges in sustainable agriculture, driving discovery and innovation. | Phosphorus, Sustainable food and agriculture | https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.70142 | https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.70142 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Bacheva.Grieger_et-al.-Global-Change-Biology_2025.pdf | 10.1111/gcb.70142 | Global Change Biology | |
| Grieger, K., Scholz, M., Cummings, C.L. et al. Exploring awareness, implementation, and future use of urine diversion systems in U.S. university buildings. Environ Syst Decis 45, 17 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-025-10011-8. PDF | Exploring awareness, implementation, and future use of urine diversion systems in U.S. university buildings | Khara Grieger, Christopher L. Cummings | 2025 | 4/5/2025 | Urine diversion systems, which include waterless urinals and urine-diverting flush toilets, offer opportunities to conserve water, recover nutrients, promote circular economies, and improve sustainability. While technical development of these systems is critical, understanding stakeholder perceptions is equally important for their successful innovation, implementation, and adoption. This study conducts an exploratory analysis of stakeholder perceptions at U.S. academic institutions regarding how urine diversion technologies fit within the broader array of water conservation technologies and factors that influence decision-making related to urine diversion in buildings. We surveyed 65 stakeholders, including executive leaders, administrators, facilities managers, building managers, and sustainability professionals—key groups responsible for the adoption and maintenance of such systems but underrepresented in prior research. Participants reported a high level of awareness of water conservation technologies and varying degrees of implementation. Across all technologies, low-flush fixtures had the highest rate of implementation and waterless urinals had the highest rate of implementation and subsequent removal due to maintenance and infrastructure challenges. Participants also indicated that compliance with plumbing codes was the most critical factor when considering the implementation of urine diversion systems, followed by efficacy and cost-savings, and water conservation and nutrient recovery were among the least important factors. Future studies should focus on aligning urine diversion systems with building codes and regulations, mitigating clogging and odors to improve acceptance and adoption, and estimating costs and benefits when deciding on their implementation. | Urine diversion systems, which include waterless urinals and urine-diverting flush toilets, offer opportunities to conserve water, recover nutrients, promote circular economies, and improve sustainability. While technical development of these systems is critical, understanding stakeholder perceptions is equally important for their successful innovation, implementation, and adoption. We surveyed 65 stakeholders, including executive leaders, administrators, facilities managers, building managers, and sustainability professionals—key groups responsible for the adoption and maintenance of such systems but underrepresented in prior research. | Urine diversion, Phosphorus sustainability, Stakeholder perceptions | https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-025-10011-8 | https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10669-025-10011-8 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Grieger-et-al.-ESD_2025.pdf | 10.1007/s10669-025-10011-8 | Environment Systems and Decisions | |
| Cimadori I, Di Concetto A, Grieger K. The Protection of Selectively Bred and Gene Edited Farm Animals under EU Law. European Journal of Risk Regulation. (2025) 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1017/err.2025.12. PDF. Graphic | The Protection of Selectively Bred and Gene Edited Farm Animals under EU Law | Khara Grieger | 2025 | 3/17/2025 | Since the eighteenth century, animal breeding has significantly evolved, culminating in the use of gene editing (GE) technologies like CRISPR-Cas9. These technologies offer unprecedented capabilities to modify animal genomes, potentially revolutionising breeding practices by achieving desired traits much faster compared to traditional selective breeding (SB). Because breeding programmes focussed on productivity traits have often compromised animal welfare, this article provides an analysis of the ethical issues underpinning the use of GE in animal breeding, and the current laws regulating such practices. In doing so, this article critically examines the European Union (EU)’s regulatory framework for SB and GE in farm animals, highlighting significant gaps and inconsistencies. Specifically, the use of GE animals is currently regulated under the EU’s GMO legislation, while SB is more loosely regulated, posing substantial risks to animal welfare. The authors advocate for a regulatory framework that prioritises animal welfare goals and proposes reforms to enhance animal protection objectives by ensuring a more consistent and humane approach to farm animal breeding. | This article provides an analysis of the ethical issues underpinning the use of gene editing in animal breeding, and the current laws regulating such practices. In doing so, this article critically examines the European Union (EU)’s regulatory framework for selective breeding and gene editing in farm animals, highlighting significant gaps and inconsistencies. | Animal welfare, Gene editing, Selective breeding | https://doi.org/10.1017/err.2025.12 | https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/european-journal-of-risk-regulation/article/protection-of-selectively-bred-and-gene-edited-farm-animals-under-eu-law/44FC16317466A65A655C352A0226544D | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Cimadori-et-al.-Gene-edited-animals-2025.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Cimadori-et-al.-Gene-edited-animals-2025_full.jpg | 10.1017/err.2025.12 | European Journal of Risk Regulation |
| Brannon A. and Grieger K. “Addressing PFAS Biosolid Contamination on Farmland.” Southern Ag Today 5(9.5). February 28, 2025. Permalink https://southernagtoday.org/2025/02/07/addressing-pfas-biosolid-contamination-on-farmland/. | Addressing PFAS Biosolid Contamination on Farmland | Khara Grieger | 2025 | 2/28/2025 | Johnson County, Texas, recently requested federal disaster relief over PFAS contamination from biosolid applications on farmland, adding perhaps another theory of redress for such contamination of soils and water. PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals applied in various consumer and industrial uses. PFAS do not easily degrade in the environment and are often referred to as “forever chemicals.” While scientists are early in understanding PFAS’ full range of health and environmental effects, studies indicate links to adverse health outcomes, including cancer and liver and thyroid functioning. PFAS have been released across the county in the air, into water, and onto land. The federal disaster request supplements Johnson County residents’ 2024 federal environmental lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state tort claim against a fertilizer manufacturer. | PFAS is an emerging risk that many North Carolinians face, including farmers. While there have been regulations set on levels of PFAS in public drinking water, there are no safety standards for PFAS in soil. A lawsuit in Texas brings to the forefront some of the litigation issues surrounding PFAS in agricultural lands, particularly if they arise from biosolid applications. | PFAS, biosolids | https://southernagtoday.org/2025/02/07/addressing-pfas-biosolid-contamination-on-farmland/ | |||||
| Oates C., Fajardo H., Grieger K., Obenour D., Muenich R. L., & Nelson N. G. (2024) Effective Nutrient Management of Surface Waters in the United States Requires Expanded Water Quality Monitoring in Agriculturally Intensive Areas. ACS Environ Au.5(1):1-11. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenvironau.4c00060. PDF. Graphic | Effective Nutrient Management of Surface Waters in the United States Requires Expanded Water Quality Monitoring in Agriculturally Intensive Areas | Khara Grieger | 2024 | 11/28/2024 | The U.S. Clean Water Act is believed to have driven widespread decreases in pollutants from point sources and developed areas, but has not substantially affected nutrient pollution from agriculture. Today, the highest nutrient concentrations in surface waters are often associated with agricultural production. In this Perspective, we explore whether challenges stemming from the Clean Water Act’s inability to mitigate agricultural nutrient pollution are also exacerbated by coarse nutrient monitoring. We evaluate the current state of nutrient monitoring in surface waters of the contiguous U.S. relative to agricultural nutrient inputs to assess how monitoring effort varies across agriculturally intensive areas. The locations of nutrient monitoring stations with approximately seasonal sampling frequency (4 samples per year, on average) from 2012 to 2021 were compiled from the U.S. Water Quality Portal. Monitoring station locations were then compared to watershed-scale (HUC-8) nutrient inventory estimates for agricultural fertilizer and livestock manure inputs. From this assessment, we found that many, but not all, of the nation’s most agriculturally intensive areas are under-monitored, and often unmonitored. While it is well-known that the Midwest is the epicenter of agricultural production in the U.S., our results reveal it is poorly monitored relative to its agricultural nutrient inputs. Other regions, like the California Central Valley and parts of the southeastern Coastal Plain were also coarsely monitored relative to nutrient inputs. Conversely, some agriculturally intensive watersheds were moderately-to-well monitored (e.g., western Lake Erie basin, eastern North Carolina, and the Delmarva Peninsula), with these basins largely having established Total Maximum Daily Loads and discharging to prominent waterways. In closing, we argue that sparse monitoring across many of the nation’s most agriculturally intensive areas motivate a need to re-envision nutrient monitoring networks, and that increased resources and advanced technologies are likely required to enable effective nutrient source identification throughout the nation. | We argue that sparse monitoring across many of the nation’s most agriculturally intensive areas motivate a need to re-envision nutrient monitoring networks, and that increased resources and advanced technologies are likely required to enable effective nutrient source identification throughout the nation. | Phosphorus, Nitrogen, Clean Water Act, Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Nutrient Inventory | https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenvironau.4c00060 | https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsenvironau.4c00060 | https://pubs.acs.org/doi/epdf/10.1021/acsenvironau.4c00060?ref=article_openPDF | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Oates-Grieger-et-al-Nutrient-Mgmt-Surface-Waters-ACS-Env-2024.jpg | 10.1021/acsenvironau.4c00060 | ACS Environmental Au |
| Jones, J.L., Berube, D., Cuchiara, M., Grieger, K. et al. (2024) Positioning nanotechnology to address climate change. Environment Systems and Decisions. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-024-09991-w. PDF. Graphic. | Positioning nanotechnology to address climate change | Khara Grieger, David Berube | 2024 | 10/9/2024 | One of society’s most pressing challenges in the twenty-first century is that of climate change. In fact, climate change is seen as the most defining issue of our time as we are witness to an anthropogenic perturbation in geology and earth sciences of global scale. To move forward in this new era, solutions will be sought to both mitigate the effects of climate change (e.g., reduce greenhouse gasses) as well as adapt and build resilience (e.g., improve infrastructure and agriculture to resist damage from extreme weather or floods). The immediacy of the needed solutions dictates that the response must use the full force of society’s current knowledge base, science, technology, and innovation. Nanotechnology, an enabling technology that has matured over the past few decades and now considered for general-purpose and mass use, is ideal for addressing climate change and its impacts. To position nanotechnology to address such complex challenges, this Perspective integrates collective insights from a broad range of viewpoints and presents recommendations for how research can be motivated and scoped, organized, and implemented to achieve beneficial outcomes and innovations in the most efficient ways. While this Perspective was created with a focus on the research landscape within the United States, the findings are also relevant in other international contexts. Research that can effectively advance nanotechnology solutions will be use-inspired basic research, incorporate systems-level thinking, apply a convergence research approach, engage stakeholders, and require advanced nanotechnology infrastructure. By illuminating this compelling and complex research topic, this Perspective aims to direct, inform, and accelerate needed actions in the research community to advance nanotechnology solutions for addressing climate change. | This article examines how the advancement of nanotechnology can be harnessed to address the urgent challenge of climate change. It outlines strategies for integrating use-inspired basic research, systems-level thinking, and convergence research approaches to accelerate innovations in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening infrastructure resilience, and adapting agriculture to extreme weather events. By offering a comprehensive roadmap, the authors aim to guide research efforts and highlight the global potential of nanotechnology in developing impactful climate solutions. | Nanotechnology, Convergence research, Climate change, Infrastructure | https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10669-024-09991-w | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Jones_Nano-for-climate-change-Grieger-2024-s10669-024-09991-w.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Grieger-et-al_Nano-for-climate_Env-Sys-Des_2024_1920x1080.jpg | 10.1007/s10669-024-09991-w | Environmental Systems and Decisions | |
| Grieger, K.D., Loschin, N., Barnhill, K., Gould, F. (2024). Let’s Talk about Genetic Engineering: A Guide to Understanding Genetic Engineering and Its Applications in Food, Agriculture, and the Environment. NC State Extension. Retrieved from https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/lets-talk-about-genetic-engineering. PDF. Graphic | Let’s Talk about Genetic Engineering: A Guide to Understanding Genetic Engineering and Its Applications in Food, Agriculture, and the Environment | Khara Grieger, Nick Loschin, Katie Barnhill, Fred Gould | 2024 | 8/6/2024 | Biotechnology refers to the field of science where genetic material, living organisms, cells, and biological systems can be studied or used to create products and technologies. For instance, genetic engineering refers to a powerful set of tools within the field of biotechnology. By using genetic engineering in food, agricultural, and environmental contexts, scientists have been able to develop new food products, crop varieties, and approaches to potentially restore ecosystems, among other examples. Many of these applications aim to improve or enhance food production, quality, and environmental conditions. At the same time, there have been significant discussions and public debates over the past few decades about the role of genetic engineering and its use in different fields. Today, scientists and regulatory officials continue to work together with other stakeholders from industry, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and members of the public to understand and address these concerns. This work also aims to refine approaches to evaluate safety and ensure sufficient regulatory oversight of genetic engineering and its use in various products and within different contexts. This publication outlines and describes core concepts related to genetic engineering and its use in food, agriculture, and the environment. This information may be particularly helpful for Extension agents, researchers, community members, government officials, and others who wish to better understand genetic engineering and the role it plays in our society. | This publication outlines and describes core concepts related to genetic engineering and its use in food, agriculture, and the environment. This information may be particularly helpful for Extension agents, researchers, community members, government officials, and others who wish to better understand genetic engineering and the role it plays in our society. | Genetic Engineering, Food, Agriculture, Environment | https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/lets-talk-about-genetic-engineering | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Grieger-et-al-About-GE-2024.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Grieger-et-al-About-GE_2024_full.jpg | NC State Extension | ||
| Merck, A., Grieger, K., Crane, L., Boyer, T. 2024. Researchers must address regulatory regimes to scale up adoption of urine diversion systems in the U.S. Environ. Res.: Infrastruct. Sustain. 4 023001. https://doi.org/10.1088/2634-4505/ad59c3. PDF | Researchers must address regulatory regimes to scale up adoption of urine diversion systems in the U.S. | Khara Grieger, Ashton Merck | 2024 | 7/1/2024 | Urine diversion (UD) is a system-of-systems that involves source separation of waste to maximize recovery of valuable nutrients, including phosphorus. Recent research shows how UD systems offer valuable ecological benefits and can aid in water conservation efforts, and public perception studies suggest that UD systems are generally viewed positively by end-users and the general public. Nevertheless, adoption and implementation of this promising sustainability solution remains limited in many countries, including the United States (U.S.). In this perspective, we argue that in order to scale up adoption in the U.S., UD researchers and innovators must do more to address regulatory barriers. We draw on insights from political science research on 'regulatory regimes' to introduce the array of regulations that apply to UD systems, with a focus on commercial and institutional buildings. We examine regulatory regimes all along the UD system-of-systems, beginning at the point of collection and ending at the point of beneficial reuse. We then propose next steps to address current regulatory challenges that impact adoption, with an emphasis on the importance of stakeholder coordination. Throughout, we argue that law and regulation plays a critical role in shaping adoption of UD technologies because: (1) different regulatory regimes will be important at different points in the system-of-systems, (2) there may be multiple regulatory regimes that apply to a single subsystem, and (3) it is important to consider that legal and regulatory definitions of a technology may not match scientific understanding. | Urine diversion (UD) is a system-of-systems that involves source separation of waste to maximize recovery of valuable nutrients, including phosphorus. Recent research shows how UD systems offer valuable ecological benefits and can aid in water conservation efforts, and public perception studies suggest that UD systems are generally viewed positively by end-users and the general public. Nevertheless, adoption and implementation of this promising sustainability solution remains limited in many countries, including the United States (U.S.). In this perspective, we argue that in order to scale up adoption in the U.S., UD researchers and innovators must do more to address regulatory barriers. | Urine diversion, Phosphorus, Regulation | https://doi.org/10.1088/2634-4505/ad59c3 | https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/2634-4505/ad59c3 | https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/2634-4505/ad59c3/pdf | 10.1088/2634-4505/ad59c3 | Environ. Res.: Infrastruct. Sustain. | |
| Lowry, G.V., Giraldo, J.P., Steinmetz, N.F.,... Grieger, K., et al. Towards realizing nano-enabled precision delivery in plants. Nat. Nanotechnol. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41565-024-01667-5. PDF. Graphic | Towards realizing nano-enabled precision delivery in plants | Khara Grieger | 2024 | 6/6/2024 | Nanocarriers (NCs) that can precisely deliver active agents, nutrients and genetic materials into plants will make crop agriculture more resilient to climate change and sustainable. As a research field, nano-agriculture is still developing, with significant scientific and societal barriers to overcome. In this Review, we argue that lessons can be learned from mammalian nanomedicine. In particular, it may be possible to enhance efficiency and efficacy by improving our understanding of how NC properties affect their interactions with plant surfaces and biomolecules, and their ability to carry and deliver cargo to specific locations. New tools are required to rapidly assess NC–plant interactions and to explore and verify the range of viable targeting approaches in plants. Elucidating these interactions can lead to the creation of computer-generated in silico models (digital twins) to predict the impact of different NC and plant properties, biological responses, and environmental conditions on the efficiency and efficacy of nanotechnology approaches. Finally, we highlight the need for nano-agriculture researchers and social scientists to converge in order to develop sustainable, safe and socially acceptable NCs. | This Review discussed the development of digital plants from the scale of molecules to organisms. A digital plant model at this level of organization could potentially be incorporated into already existing crop or ecosystem models205 to simulate NC and environmental interactions at a larger scale. Overcoming these scientific challenges to develop globally sustainable nano-enabled precision delivery approaches will require convergence across both scientific and societal boundaries. | Nanotechnology, Nano-carriers, Sustainability | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41565-024-01667-5 | https://link.springer.com/article/10.1038/s41565-024-01667-5 | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lowry-et-al.-NN-2024_In-print.pdf | 10.1038/s41565-024-01667-5 | Nat. Nanotechnol. | |
| Grieger, K. , Wiener, J., Kuzma, J. Improving risk governance strategies via learning: a comparative analysis of solar radiation modification and gene drives. Environment Systems and Decisions. (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-024-09979-6. PDF. Graphic. | Improving risk governance strategies via learning: a comparative analysis of solar radiation modification and gene drives | Khara Grieger, Jennifer Kuzma | 2024 | 6/4/2024 | Stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) and gene drive organisms (GDOs) have been proposed as technological responses to complex entrenched environmental challenges. They also share several characteristics of emerging risks, including extensive uncertainties, systemic interdependencies, and risk profiles intertwined with societal contexts. This Perspective conducts a comparative analysis of the two technologies, and identifies ways in which their research and policy communities may learn from each other to inform future risk governance strategies. We find that SAI and GDOs share common features of aiming to improve or restore a public good, are characterized by numerous potential ecological, societal, and ethical risks associated with deep uncertainty, and are challenged by how best to coordinate behavior of different actors. Meanwhile, SAI and GDOs differ in their temporal and spatial mode of deployment, spread, degree and type of reversibility, and potential for environmental monitoring. Based on this analysis, we find the field of SAI may learn from GDOs by enhancing its international collaborations for governance and oversight, while the field of GDOs may learn from SAI by investing in research focused on economics and decision-modeling. Additionally, given the relatively early development stages of SAI and GDOs, there may be ample opportunities to learn from risk governance efforts of other emerging technologies, including the need for improved monitoring and incorporating aspects of responsible innovation in research and any deployment. | By comparing and contrasting the technical and risk governance features of SAI and GDOs, this Perspective identifies ways in which research and policy communities may learn from each other to inform future risk governance strategies. Key findings include similarities and differences between the two emerging technologies, as well as opportunities for learning across these two domains and from other emerging technologies. We further suggest challenges and opportunities for SAI and GDOs on issues including international cooperative governance, economics and decision research, reversibility, adaptive learning, and monitoring. Overall, these suggestions may be useful for researchers, scholars, and decision-makers involved in the risk governance of SAI, GDOs, and other emerging technologies that are being investigated or considered as technological responses to complex environmental challenges. | Gene drives, Risk governance, Stratospheric aerosol injection | https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-024-09979-6 | https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10669-024-09979-6 | https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10669-024-09979-6.pdf | https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Grieger-SGI-and-GDOs-RRI_2024_1500x844.jpg | 10.1007/s10669-024-09979-6 | Environment Systems and Decisions. |
| Grieger, K. & May, K. (2024). Guide to Understanding and Addressing PFAS in our Communities. NC State Extension. Retrieved from https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/Guide-to-Understanding-and-Addressing-PFAS-in-our-communities. PDF | Guide to Understanding and Addressing PFAS in our Communities | Khara Grieger | 2024 | 1/18/2024 | This publication addresses the following questions:
| While this does not relate to genetic engineering, PFAS continues to be a major risk to the state of North Carolina and our inhabitants. Stakeholders, citizens, and the public are increasingly requesting more information about PFAS and ways to reduce potential risks. This is the first NC State Extension publication (peer-reviewed) published on PFAS. | PFAS, Water, Agriculture, Risk | https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/Guide-to-Understanding-and-Addressing-PFAS-in-our-communities | 0 | NC State Extension | |||
| Grieger, K. and Kuzma, J. (2023) Ensuring Sustainable Novel Plant Biotechnologies Requires Formalized Research and Assessment Programs. ACS Agric. Sci. Technol. Article ASAP. doi: 10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00380. PDF. Graphical abstract. Supplementary cover art | Ensuring Sustainable Novel Plant Biotechnologies Requires Formalized Research and Assessment Programs | Khara Grieger, Jennifer Kuzma | 2023 | 10/19/2023 | To ensure sustainable food systems that rely on novel plant biotechnologies, sustainability must be assessed through formalized research programs with fit-for-purpose tools and approaches. This Viewpoint puts forward one approach for establishing such research programs for evaluating the sustainability of novel plant biotechnologies befitting the 21st century. | Published as part of the ACS Agricultural Science & Technology virtual special issue “Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Breeding, and Food Security," this article highlights the pressing need for formalized research and assessment tools to evaluate the sustainability of new plant biotechnologies. Current oversight processes fall short by primarily focusing on safety and environmental concerns. To address this gap, the authors propose a federal office that coordinates research and standardizes assessment parameters. This approach ensures that emerging biotechnologies align with sustainability goals, provide broader benefits, and gain public trust, ultimately promoting sustainable food systems. | Plant biotechnologies, Sustainability assessment, Genetic engineering, Federal oversight, Sustainable food systems | 10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00380 | https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00380# | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2023/10/grieger-kuzma-2023-ensuring-sustainable-novel-plant-biotechnologies-requires-formalized-research-and-assessment-programs.pdf | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2023/10/grieger-and-kuzma-sustainbility-assess.-of-novel-plant-biotech_acsagscitech_2023.jpeg | 10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00380 | ACS Agric. Sci. Technol. |
| Kuzma, J., Grieger, K., Cimadori, I., Cummings, C. L., Loschin, N., & Wei, W. (2023). Parameters, practices, and preferences for regulatory review of emerging biotechnology products in food and agriculture. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 11, 1256388. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1256388. PDF | Parameters, practices, and preferences for regulatory review of emerging biotechnology products in food and agriculture | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger, Ilaria Cimadori, Christopher L. Cummings, Nick Loschin, Wei Wei | 2023 | 9/28/2023 | This paper evaluates the U.S. regulatory review of three emerging biotechnology products according to parameters, practices, and endpoints of assessments that are important to stakeholders and publics. First, we present a summary of the literature on variables that are important to non-expert publics in governing biotech products, including ethical, social, policy process, and risk and benefit parameters. Second, we draw from our USDA-funded project results that surveyed stakeholders with subject matter expertise about their attitudes towards important risk, benefit, sustainability, and societal impact parameters for assessing novel agrifood technologies, including biotech. Third, we evaluate the regulatory assessments of three food and agricultural biotechnology case studies that have been reviewed under U.S. regulatory agencies and laws of the Coordinated Framework for the Regulation of Biotechnology, including gene-edited soybeans, beef cattle, and mustard greens. Evaluation of the regulatory review process was based on parameters identified in steps 1 and 2 which were deemed important to both publics and stakeholders. Based on this review, we then propose several policy options for U.S. federal agencies to strengthen their oversight processes to better align with a broader range of parameters to support sustainable agrifood products that rely on novel technologies. These policy options include 1) those that would not require new institutions or legal foundations (such as conducting Environmental Impact Statements and/or requiring a minimal level of safety data), 2) those that would require a novel institutional or cross-institutional framework (such as developing a publicly-available website and/or performing holistic sustainability assessments), and 3) those that would require the agencies to have additional legal authorities (such as requiring agencies to review biotech products according to a minimal set of health, environmental, and socio-economic parameters). Overall, the results of this analysis will be important for guiding policy practice and formulation in the regulatory assessment of emerging biotechnology products that challenge existing legal and institutional frameworks. | This article reviews the U.S. regulatory process for gene-edited foods and finds that it does not adequately consider public concerns about transparency, trust, choice, equity, animal welfare, and longer-term ecosystem consequences. The authors propose policy changes to make the review process more holistic and transparent, and to give consumers more choice. These findings highlight the need for a more robust regulatory framework for gene-edited foods that reflects the concerns of the public. | Regulation, Risk assessment, Governance, Biotechnology, Gene editing | 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1256388 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2023.1256388 | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2023/09/Kuzma-et-al_PPP-reg-review-of-emerging-biotech-in-food-and-ag_2023_fbioe-11-1256388.pdf | 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1256388 | Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology | |
| Nelson, N., Harris, A., Anarde, K., Hino, M., Grieger, K. 2023. Exercise Caution: Tidal Floods May Contain Pollutants. North Carolina Sea Grant. Available: https://ncseagrant.ncsu.edu/quick-links/tidalfloods/ | Exercise Caution: Tidal Floods May Contain Pollutants | Khara Grieger | 2023 | 8/25/2023 | Coastal communities in North Carolina and other states are increasingly dealing with tidal floods. “Tidal floods” refers to the overflowing of saltwater from the ocean and other marine water bodies (sounds, estuaries) onto land. During these events, tidal floodwaters can become contaminated with various biological and chemical substances. For these reasons, it is recommended to minimize or avoid contact with floodwater to protect our health and the health of our communities.A multidisciplinary team is trying to better understand the water quality of tidal floodwaters, and ways in which we can protect our health. While the research is ongoing, this fact sheet may be helpful for government officials, researchers, advisory boards, local extension agents, and community outreach teams to better understand the potential health impacts of tidal floodwaters on coastal communities. Specific topics covered in this fact sheet include:● What is tidal flooding?● What do we know about the water quality of tidal floods?● What should I do if I encounter tidal floodwaters?● Can we predict when tidal flooding may occur?● How can I learn more about tidal flooding? | Currently, we know very little about the water quality of tidal floods. Water quality refers to a range of chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water (USGS 2019). Floodwaters may have poor water quality, as various biological and chemical contaminants may be introduced into the floodwaters from different sources, including yards, urban areas, or wastewater systems (e.g., sewage or septic). Biological contaminants can include bacterial, viral, or protozoan pathogens (e.g., E. coli, Vibrio), and chemical contaminants may include heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury), pesticides, and industrial chemicals.While there have been very few published studies that have measured the water quality of tidal floods, it is important to consider the potential impact of water quality on public health in flooded areas. This is because people may walk or bicycle through tidal floodwaters and therefore come into contact with the floodwaters. If the water has poor quality, it may pose a health risk. Even after tidal floodwaters recede, contaminants can remain in the soil of yards, green areas (e.g., playgrounds), or in surrounding wetlands for months (CDC 2021a). More research is needed to better understand the water quality and public health impacts of tidal floods. | Tidal floods, safety, risk, public health | https://ncseagrant.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Tidal-Floods-Fact-Sheet-NC-Sea-Grant-1-1.pdf | https://ncseagrant.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Tidal-Floods-Fact-Sheet-NC-Sea-Grant-1-1.pdf | 0 | North Carolina Sea Grant | ||
| Merck, A.W., Grieger, K.D., Deviney, A., Marshall, A.-M. Using a Phosphorus Flow Diagram as a Boundary Object to Inform Stakeholder Engagement. Sustainability 2023, 15, 11496. doi: 10.3390/su151511496 | Using a Phosphorus Flow Diagram as a Boundary Object to Inform Stakeholder Engagement | Ashton Merck, Khara Grieger | 2023 | 7/25/2023 | Phosphorus (P) is essential for life on Earth, yet its current management is unsustainable. Stakeholder engagement is urgently needed to help ensure that scientific and technical solutions to improve P sustainability meet the needs of diverse groups, yet there are comparatively few studies that provide insights into stakeholder views, perceptions, or concerns. In this opinion, we use a mass flow diagram of P as a boundary object to understand the complex challenges of sustainable P management. In particular, we map US stakeholder groups onto the mass flow diagram to incorporate human factors into mass flows at a national scale. Our approach is grounded in well-established social–scientific methodologies, such as stakeholder mapping and social network analysis, but is applied in a novel way that can be generalized to other mass flows and geographic areas. We then suggest ways that researchers can use the annotated flow diagram to identify both knowledge gaps and research gaps in stakeholder engagement, especially in interdisciplinary or convergence research contexts. | In this opinion, we used the P flow diagram as a boundary object to identify and organize potential US stakeholders in P sustainability, grounded in existing knowledge from literature on stakeholder engagement in P sustainability. The process outlined here reflects existing best practices in stakeholder research to define stakeholders as those who can influence, as well as those who are influenced by, decisions about the environment, subject to pragmatic constraints on participation. Furthermore, the approach proposed here responds to calls by other researchers to employ inclusive practices to involve previously overlooked stakeholders rather than relying on the “usual suspects” already known to decision makers and researchers. | Stakeholder engagement, Phosphorus, Sustainability,Bboundary object | 10.3390/su151511496 | https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511496 | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2023/07/Greiger_P-flow-as-boundry-object-rt-engagement_Sustainability-15-11496-with-cover.pdf | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2023/07/Greiger_P-as-boundary-object-Sustainability-graphic.jpg | 10.3390/su151511496 | Sustainability |
| Wei, W., Grieger, K., Cummings, C. L., Loschin, N., & Kuzma, J. (2023) Identifying sustainability assessment parameters for genetically engineered agrifoods. Plants, People, Planet. https://doi.org/10.1002/ppp3.10411PDF | Identifying sustainability assessment parameters for genetically engineered agrifoods | Wei Wei, Khara Grieger, Christopher L. Cummings, Nick Loschin, Jennifer Kuzma | 2023 | 7/22/2023 | To achieve international sustainable development goals, food and agricultural production need to rely on sustainable and resilient practices. Traditional breeding as well as the use of new agricultural technologies, including genetic engineering and gene editing, have the potential to help achieve sustainable agrifood production. Although numerous oversight mechanisms exist to guarantee the secure and sustainable advancement and utilization of genetically engineered agrifoods, the majority of these mechanisms heavily depend on a narrow set of parameters to assess risks and safety concerning human health and nontarget organisms. However, a more comprehensive range of parameters should be considered to promote environmental and social sustainability in a more holistic manner. This Opinion article argues that to achieve a more sustainable agrifood production that relies on genetic engineering, governance systems related to new agrifood biotechnologies should incorporate a broader array of environmental, health, ethical, and societal factors to ensure their sustainability in the long-term. To facilitate this process, we propose a set of parameters to help evaluate the sustainability of agrifoods that rely on genetic engineering. We then discuss major challenges and opportunities for formalizing sustainability parameters in US governance policy and decision-making systems. Overall, this work contributes to further developing a more comprehensive assessment framework that aims to minimize potential risks and maximize potential benefits of agrifood biotechnology while also fostering sustainability. | This Opinion article argues that to achieve a more sustainable agrifood production that relies on genetic engineering, governance systems related to new agrifood biotechnologies should incorporate a broader array of environmental, health, ethical, and societal factors to ensure their sustainability in the long-term. To facilitate this process, we propose a set of parameters to help evaluate the sustainability of agrifoods that rely on genetic engineering. We then discuss major challenges and opportunities for formalizing sustainability parameters in US governance policy and decision-making systems. Overall, this work contributes to further developing a more comprehensive assessment framework that aims to minimize potential risks and maximize potential benefits of agrifood biotechnology while also fostering sustainability. | Agriculture, Benefits, Genetic engineering, Risks, Sustainability | 10.1002/ppp3.10411 | https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.10411 | 10.1002/ppp3.10411 | Plants, People, Planet | ||
| Ethridge, S., Grieger, K., Locke, A., Everman, W., Jordan, D., & Leon, R. (2023). Views of RNAi approaches for weed management in turfgrass systems. Weed Science, 1-33. doi: 10.1017/wsc.2023.37 | Views of RNAi approaches for weed management in turfgrass systems | Sandy Ethridge, Khara Grieger, Ramon Leon | 2023 | 7/10/2023 | Public concern regarding the use of herbicides in urban areas (e.g., golf courses, parks, lawns) is increasing. Thus, there is a need for alternative methods for weed control that are safe for the public, effective against weeds, and yet selective to turfgrass and other desirable species. New molecular tools such as RNAi have a potential to meet all those requirements, but before these technologies can be implemented, it is critical to understand the perceptions of key stakeholders to facilitate adoption as well as regulatory processes. With this in mind, turfgrass system managers, such as golf course superintendents and lawn care providers, were surveyed to gain insight to the perception and potential adoption of RNAi technology for weed management. Based on survey results, turfgrass managers believe that cost of weed management and time spent managing weeds are the main challenges faced in their fields. When considering new weed management tools, survey respondents were most concerned about cost, efficacy, and efficiency of a new product. Survey respondents were also optimistic toward RNAi for weed management and would either use this technology in their own fields or be willing to conduct research to develop RNAi herbicides. Although respondents believed that the general public would have some concerns about this technology, they did not believe this to be the most important factor for them when choosing new weed management tools. The need for new herbicides to balance weed control challenges and public demands is a central factor for turfgrass managers’ willingness to use RNAi-based weed control in turfgrass systems. They believe their clientele will be accepting of RNAi tools, although further research is needed to investigate how a wider range of stakeholders perceive RNAi tools for turfgrass management more broadly. | The need for new herbicides to balance weed control challenges and public demands is a central factor for turfgrass managers’ willingness to use RNAi-based weed control in turfgrass systems. They believe their clientele will be accepting of RNAi tools, although further research is needed to investigate how a wider range of stakeholders perceive RNAi tools for turfgrass management more broadly. | Biotechnology, Perceptions, Acceptance, Turfgrass | 10.1017/wsc.2023.37 | https://doi.org/10.1017/wsc.2023.37 | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2023/07/Ethridge-et-al.-RNAi-turfgrass-2023.pdf | 10.1017/wsc.2023.37 | Weed Science | |
| Grieger, K., Merck, A., Deviney, A. et al. What are stakeholder views and needs for achieving phosphorus sustainability?. Environ Syst Decis (2023). DOI: 10.1007/s10669-023-09917-y. PDF | What are Stakeholder Views and Needs for Achieving Phosphorus Sustainability? | Khara Grieger, Ashton Merck | 2023 | 5/23/2023 | Our society depends on the effective management of phosphorus (P). Phosphorus is a key component of agricultural fertilizers to improve crop yields, and also plays a critical role in many industrial processes and consumer products. In the past decade, there have been numerous calls for innovative approaches to manage P more sustainably, as it is a nonrenewable resource that can adversely impact aquatic ecosystems from runoff and inefficiencies in P use. To develop more sustainable solutions that will ultimately be adopted, diverse stakeholder perspectives must be recognized, including those in industry, government, academia, non-governmental organizations, and other civil groups. This study responds to this need by identifying stakeholder views, needs, concerns, and challenges regarding P sustainability. An online survey was developed and deployed to individuals identified as P sustainability experts and professionals in the U.S. and abroad. Based on responses from 96 stakeholder participants from a range of sectors, areas of expertise, and geographies, we found that the vast majority of stakeholders considered current P use to be unsustainable and were very concerned about the ability to manage P sustainably. Stakeholder participants did not distinguish between urgent and long-term challenges, and perceived financial and regulatory issues to be of greatest importance. Stakeholder participants expressed a range of needs to improve P management systems, including improved management practices, new technologies, enhanced regulations, and better approaches for engagement. Outcomes from this work can help inform future research, engagement, and policy priorities to ensure sustainable P management solutions based on stakeholder-identified perspectives and needs. | Overall, results from this study may help inform future research, engagement, and policy priorities to ensure sustainable P management solutions based on stakeholder-identified perspectives and needs. | Sustainability, Stakeholders, Phosphorus | 10.1007/s10669-023-09917-y | https://rdcu.be/ddlwg | 10.1007/s10669-023-09917-y | Environ Syst Decis | ||
| He, Q.,... Grieger, K. et al. (2023). Phytoextraction of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) by Weeds: Effect of Pfas Physicochemical Properties and Plant Physiological Traits. Journal of Hazardous Materials, vol. 454, 28 Apr. 2023, doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131492. PDF | Phytoextraction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by weeds: Effect of PFAS physicochemical properties and plant physiological traits. | Khara Grieger | 2023 | 4/28/2023 | Phytoextraction is a promising technology that uses plants to remediate contaminated soil. However, its feasibility for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and the impact of PFAS properties and plant traits on phytoextraction efficacy remains unknown. In this study, we conducted greenhouse experiment and evaluated the potential of weeds for phytoextraction of PFAS from soil and assessed the effects of PFAS properties and plant traits on PFAS uptake via systematic correlation analyses and electron probe microanalyzer with energy dispersive spectroscopy (FE-EPMA-EDS) imaging. The results showed that 1) phytoextraction can remove 0.04%− 41.4%wt of PFAS from soil, with extracted PFAS primarily stored in plant shoots; 2) Weeds preferentially extracted short-chain PFAS over long-chain homologues from soil. 3) PFAS molecular size and hydrophilicity determined plant uptake behavior, while plant morphological traits, particularly root protein and lipid content, influenced PFAS accumulation and translocation. Although plants with thin roots and small leaf areas exhibited greater PFAS uptake and storage ability, the impact of PFAS physicochemical properties was more significant. 4) Finally, short-chain PFAS were transported quickly upwards in the plant, while uptake of long-chain PFOS was restricted. | Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is an emerging issue of concern. PFAS are a large group of chemicals that have been manufactured by people for several decades, and are now considered among the most important contaminants to address in our society. This study investigates the role of plants, specifically weeds, to uptake PFAS as a way to remove PFAS in contaminated soils. Our study explored the rates of PFAS uptake by weeds and also investigated the rate of uptake based on different types of PFAS. It sheds light on the use of phytoremediation to remove PFAS in contaminated soils. | PFAS, Phytoextraction, Environmental Remediation, Emerging Contaminants | 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131492 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131492 | 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131492 | Journal of Hazardous Materials | ||
Assessing the Impacts of Urbanization on Stream Ecosystem Functioning: Litter Decomposition and Nutrient Uptake in Forest and Hyper-Eutrophic StreamGao, J., …, Grieger, K. 2022. Assessing the Impacts of Urbanization on Stream Ecosystem Functioning: Litter Decomposition and Nutrient Uptake in Forest and Hyper-Eutrophic Stream. Ecological Indicators, 138: 108859. doi: 10.1016/j.ecolind.2022.108859. PDF | Assessing the Impacts of Urbanization on Stream Ecosystem Functioning: Litter Decomposition and Nutrient Uptake in Forest and Hyper-Eutrophic Stream | Khara Grieger | 2023 | 4/12/2023 | Rapid urbanization significantly affects freshwater systems by interfering with important ecological functions. The responses of different ecosystem functions in urban streams and their potential ecological effects remain largely unknown, impeding their management and restoration in many cases. In this study, we simultaneously assessed two important ecosystem functions, litter decomposition and nutrient uptake, and investigated the associated microbial and benthic macroinvertebrate communities in two subtropical streams (i.e., a forest headwater stream as a reference and an urban stream that was hyper-eutrophic). Litter decomposition was estimated using litter bags with two mesh sizes (i.e., 50 μm and 2 mm) and two leaf species with different qualities (i.e., Alangium chinense and Machilus leptophylla), with a total of 96 litter bags. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) uptake rates were measured in situ based on the spiraling model. We found that the decomposition rate of A.chinense was approximately seven times that of M. leptophylla in both streams. Moreover, in the urban stream, the litter decomposition rate (0.004 day−1) was one-third that of the forest stream (0.013 day−1), regardless of the litter species. Macroinvertebrates strongly contributed to litter decomposition in the forest stream, where decomposition rates were 1.8-fold higher in the coarse mesh compared to the fine mesh bags, while they had a negligible role in the urban stream (no significant difference between the two mesh bags). P uptake was higher (85-fold) and N uptake was lower (0.13-fold) in the urban compared to forest stream. Litter decomposition and nutrient uptake exhibit decoupled response. These findings show that litter decomposition by kcoarse/kfine metrics and the uptake of N and P are complementary and should be considered in the management and restoration of urban stream ecosystems. | This study examines the effects of urbanization on the functioning of stream ecosystems, specifically focusing on litter decomposition and nutrient uptake. The researchers find that urbanization significantly reduces litter decomposition rates, macroinvertebrate diversity, and nitrogen uptake, while increasing phosphorus uptake in streams. These findings provide valuable insights for the management and restoration of urban streams, highlighting the need to consider both litter decomposition and nutrient uptake in these efforts. | Urbanization, Ecosystem function, Litter decomposition, Nutrient uptake, Macroinvertebrates, Microbes | 10.1016/j.ecolind.2022.108859 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X22003302?via%3Dihub | 10.1016/j.ecolind.2022.108859 | Ecological Indicators | ||
| Deviney A., Grieger K., Merck A., Classen J., Marshall A.M. (2023), Phosphorus sustainability through coordinated stakeholder engagement: a perspective. Environment Systems and Decisions. doi: 10.1007/s10669-023-09896-0. PDF | Phosphorus sustainability through coordinated stakeholder engagement: a perspective | Khara Grieger, Ashton Merck, John Classen | 2023 | 2/13/2023 | In this Perspective we take an in-depth look at what coordinated stakeholder engagement could entail for phosphorus sustainability. The element phosphorus is critical to life on Earth and to the continued functioning of society as we know it. Yet, how society uses phosphorus is currently unsustainable, both as a resource in support of global food production where inequitable distribution creates food security challenges, but also from an environmental aspect, where mismanagement has led to negative impacts on the quality of agricultural soils, human health, and freshwater and marine ecosystems. A number of initiatives and cross-sector consortia have come together to address sustainable phosphorus management at either global or regional scales. However, these efforts could benefit from a more coordinated approach to stakeholder engagement to identify the diversity of needs and perspectives involved in this complex challenge. Herein we examine some examples of different approaches to developing such coordinated stakeholder engagement in other areas of environmental sustainability. We consider how to apply the lessons learned from those efforts toward stakeholder coordination in the realm of phosphorus sustainability. Particularly, we discuss the value of a coordinating body to manage the communications and knowledge sharing necessary to develop trust and cooperation among diverse stakeholder groups and to transition society to more sustainable phosphorus use. | Stakeholder, Phosphorus, Sustainability | 10.1007/s10669-023-09896-0 | https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10669-023-09896-0 | 10.1007/s10669-023-09896-0 | Environment Systems and Decisions | |||
| Ahmad J, Baltzegar J, Brown ZS, Delborne JA, Dhole S, Elsensohn J, Gould F, Grieger K, Hardwick A, Kuzma J, Lorenzen M, Loschin N, Medina R, Mostert B, Mulligan P, Pepin K, Spangle D, Stauffer S, Stokes R, Wei W, and Barnhill SK. (2022) Gene Drives in Agriculture: Risk Assessment and Research Prioritization. Genetic Engineering and Society Center, NC State University Online at: go.ncsu.edu/ges-gene-drive-workshop-white-paper | Gene Drives in Agriculture: Risk Assessment and Research Prioritization | Jabeen Ahmad, Jennifer Baltzegar, Zack Brown, Jason Delborne, Sumit Dhole, Fred Gould, Khara Grieger, Andrew Hardwick, Jennifer Kuzma, Marce Lorenzen, Nick Loschin, Bethany Mosert, Patti Mulligan, Sharon Stauffer, Dylan Spangle, Willy Wei, Katie Barnhill | 2022 | 12/16/2022 | The Genetic Engineering and Society (GES) Center at North Carolina State University (NC State) hosted an online workshop entitled “Gene Drives in Agriculture: Workshop on Risk Assessment and Research Prioritization” on June 2, 3, and 17, 2022. The workshop was funded by the USDA-NIFA Biotechnology Risk Assessment Grant program (grant number 2020-33522-32269; PI = Barnhill), with additional support from and partnership with the NC State Center for Excellence in Regulatory Science for Agriculture (CERSA). The workshop included an interdisciplinary lineup of speakers brought together in an effort to review and develop risk assessment methodology associated with gene drives for agriculture pest control. This report was generated to inform and summarize foreseen risks associated with gene drive technology for agriculture pest control to identify data needs for gene drive technology. The workshop featured panelist experts in multiple disciplines specializing in gene drives, risk assessment, policy, and agricultural pests. By use of presentations and breakout sessions, many ideas were presented regarding the risk assessment and risk governance of gene drives in agriculture. This workshop report does not represent the opinion of all the participants in the workshop but serves as a bridge to cover multiple perspectives from interdisciplinary efforts. | A comprehensive examination of the application, risks, and regulatory aspects of gene drives for agricultural pest control. Written by attendees of our June 2022 workshop, it underscores the potential of gene drives while acknowledging significant gaps in governance systems and risk assessment data. Key concerns include effectiveness, ecological impacts, and human health effects, and calls for ongoing stakeholder dialogues and integration of social science data into gene drive models. | Gene Drive, Agricultural Biotechnology, Risk Assessment, USDA, NIFA, Workshop Report | https://research.ncsu.edu/ges/files/2022/11/Gene-Drives-in-Agriculture-Workshop-on-Risk-Assessment-and-Research-Prioritization-2022.pdf | 0 | Genetic Engineering and Society Center, NC State University | |||
| Horgan, M.D., Hsain, H.A., Jones, J.L. Grieger, K.D. (2023) Development and application of screening-level risk analysis for emerging materials, Sustainable Materials and Technologies, 35. Graphical abstract (Figure 4) | Development and application of screening-level risk analysis for emerging materials | Khara Grieger | 2022 | 11/25/2022 | Analysis of a material's impact on society is increasingly recognized as a necessary step in materials development, especially in the area of lead-free piezoelectrics. Evaluations of the environmental, health, and societal impacts that occur throughout the material's life cycle are critical for determining the viability of lead-free alternatives. Risk screening approaches, such as the screening-level Emerging Materials Risk Analysis (EMRA) proposed in this work, may help researchers compare materials or material production routes to determine more sustainable solutions. As a first demonstration of its utility in the development of lead-free piezoelectrics, the approach introduced in this paper is applied to piezoelectric HfO2 (hafnia) to compare mining and processing routes and to elucidate the more sustainable route for HfO2 production. This paper aims to exemplify how the EMRA risk screening approach incorporates perspectives on environmental, health, and societal impacts into the materials research process by providing a relative risk screening evaluation of different material processing routes and/or different materials. Results from applying EMRA to hafnia show that the major known environmental impacts of hafnia mining and processing involve ecosystem destruction and heavy use of fossil fuels and electricity; health impacts related to potentially unsafe working conditions and potential exposure to radioactive elements; and societal impacts including land disputes and supply concerns. Results also demonstrate that the more sustainable production route currently available includes commercial wet mining with land rehabilitation followed by beneficiation via wet processes with consistent personal protective equipment use and water recycling. Almost all of the previously-mentioned impacts are avoided in this life cycle route. Outcomes from this analysis identify hafnia as a potentially sustainable replacement for certain applications of PZT and therefore encourage continued development of the material. Future efforts will test EMRA on a wide variety of other materials and revise the approach accordingly. | Risk Screening, Life Cycle, Material Development, Hafnia, Piezoelectrics | 10.1016/j.susmat.2022.e00524 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214993722001385 | 10.1016/j.susmat.2022.e00524 | Sustainable Materials and Technologies | |||
| Merck, A. W., Grieger, K. D., and Kuzma, J.. How can we promote the responsible innovation of nano-agrifood research? Environmental Science & Policy 137, 2022. 10.1016/j.envsci.2022.08.027 PDF. Graphical Abstract | How can we promote the responsible innovation of nano-agrifood research? | Ashton Merck, Khara Grieger, Jennifer Kuzma | 2022 | 9/12/2022 | The use of nanotechnology and engineered nanomaterials in food and agriculture (nano-agrifoods) may provide numerous benefits to society. At the same time, there is also a chance that nano-agrifood innovations may pose new or unknown risks to human or environmental health and safety. To understand these issues and be more responsive to public concerns, researchers are beginning to discuss and adopt an emerging best practice in science and technology communities known as “responsible innovation� (RI). Originally developed by researchers over ten years ago, RI is now a well-established framework that is already a part of science policymaking in the European Union (as “responsible research and innovation�). In the United States, however, there are numerous structural and institutional barriers for scientists to align their research with RI principles and goals. This perspective briefly reviews RI, why it is needed for nano-agrifoods, and how it could be institutionalized more effectively in the U.S. to ensure that future nano-agrifood research is better aligned with societal needs, expectations, and concerns. This work also identifies several pathways to institutionalize RI in nano-agrifoods, ranging from a public legal mandate to privately enforced organizational norms. Further, a set of strategies and/or best practices for implementing RI in the U.S. context is presented that are applicable to both public and private organizations. While key findings from this work are focused on the need for RI of nano-agrifoods in the U.S., implementation of these best practices could have positive benefits for other emerging technologies and in other national contexts as well. | Nanotechnology, Nano-Agrifoods, Responsible Innovation, Policy | 10.1016/j.envsci.2022.08.027 | https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1fknS5Ce0rj~zN | 10.1016/j.envsci.2022.08.027 | Environmental Science & Policy | |||
| Grieger, K. (2022). STEPS to Tackle Our Phosphorus Paradox. Wicked Problems, Wolfpack Solutions. DOI: 10.52750/331886 | STEPS to Tackle Our Phosphorus Paradox | Khara Grieger | 2022 | 8/22/2022 | Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for animals, plants and microbes. The current system to manage phosphorus is extremely inefficient. One major reason relates to the loss of phosphorus from the food chain, where it can bind to soils and transfer to animal wastes and run-off, which can lead to water pollution, algal blooms, eutrophication and even fish kills. Khara Grieger, Ph.D., argues that overall, our society needs more sustainable solutions to solve our global phosphorus paradox. The Science and Technologies for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) Center, led by researchers at NC State and in partnership with several other institutions, aims to facilitate these solutions through combining science, technology and innovation together with social sciences, communication and stakeholder engagement. | The current system to manage phosphorus is extremely inefficient. One major reason relates to the loss of phosphorus from the food chain, where it can transfer to animal wastes and run-off, which can lead to water pollution, algal blooms, eutrophication and fish kills. | STEPS, Phosphorus, Food Supply, Agriculture, Wolpack Solutions | 10.52750/331886 | https://doi.org/10.52750/331886 | 10.52750/331886 | Wicked Problems, Wolfpack Solutions | ||
| Grieger, K., Cummings, C.L. 2022. Informing Environmental Health and Risk Priorities through Local Outreach and Extension. Environment Systems and Decisions doi: 10.1007/s10669-022-09864-0 PDF | Informing Environmental Health and Risk Priorities through Local Outreach and Extension | Khara Grieger, Christopher L. Cummings | 2022 | 6/2/2022 | Our society is currently facing an unprecedented number of environmental and societal challenges. Stakeholder and community engagement can help identify priority issues and needs at local levels. One approach to engage stakeholders and communities in the contexts of environmental, health, and societal challenges is to leverage outreach and extension programs. Within this context, and to help identify priority issues to focus subsequent research and extension programs in North Carolina (NC), a survey was conducted with extension agents to identify priority issues as they relate to environmental health and risks and related needs. Based on responses from 66 study participants that represented half of the 100 NC counties, we found that Water pollution, Flooding, Natural resources management, and Engaging stakeholders were top priority issues across all environmental health and risk topics. Participants also identified that practices of Engaging stakeholders as well as Assessing, Managing, and Communicating risks were increasingly important. Participants indicated they needed a moderate-to-significant amount of guidance across a range of areas related to assessing, managing, communicating, andmaking decisions regarding environmental health and risk topics, as well as engaging with local communities. Outcomes from this work can not only help inform subsequent research and outreach efforts at local scales, but this work demonstrates a simple, low-cost approach to elicit perspectives and priorities can be leveraged in other states and regions with established stakeholder and community outreach programs more broadly | Environmental Health, Risks, Priorities, North Carolina, Extension | 10.1007/s10669-022-09864-0 | https://doi.org/10.1007/s10669-022-09864-0 | 10.1007/s10669-022-09864-0 | Environment Systems and Decisions | |||
| Merck, A. W., Grieger, K. D., Cuchiara, M., & Kuzma, J. (2022). What Role Does Regulation Play in Responsible Innovation of Nanotechnology in Food and Agriculture? Insights and Framings from U.S. Stakeholders. Bulletin of Science, Technology & Society. doi: 10.1177/02704676221102066. PDF | What Role Does Regulation Play in Responsible Innovation of Nanotechnology in Food and Agriculture? Insights and Framings from U.S. Stakeholders | Ashton Merck, Khara Grieger, Jennifer Kuzma | 2022 | 6/2/2022 | Historically, market regulation has played an important role in shaping the trajectory of scientific and technological innovation in food and agriculture. However, regulators’ traditional focus on safety and efficacy may be insufficient to address more complex ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of novel products, such as the use of nanotechnology and nanomaterials in food and agriculture (nano-agrifoods). One solution might be to implement the principles of responsible innovation (RI) to challenge innovators and policymakers to better anticipate risks further upstream and be responsive to societal desires and concerns, although substantial barriers to implementation persist. This paper presents stakeholder views on the relationship between regulation and RI in nano-agrifoods based on a broader U.S. stakeholder engagement study conducted in the fall of 2020. We found that participants raised key issues that incorporated all 4 pillars of RI (anticipation, inclusion, reflexivity, responsiveness). We also found that participants’ attitudes about the relationship between regulation and innovation informed their recommendations about the relationship between regulation and RI. These attitudes are represented in a spectrum of views, ranging from “regulation as barrier� to “regulation as driver� of innovation. We further identified implications for how each attitude might be used to operationalize RI in regulatory systems. Overall, these results suggest that just as regulation drove key innovations in the twentieth century, regulation may still have a role to play in helping to promote RI of nano-agrifoods in the twenty-first. | Responsible Innovation, Stakeholder Engagement, Nanotechnology, Food & Agriculture, Regulation | 10.1177/02704676221102066 | https://doi.org/10.1177/02704676221102066 | 10.1177/02704676221102066 | Bulletin of Science, Technology & Society | |||
| Zhi Y., Lu H., Grieger K.D., et al. Bioaccumulation and Translocation of 6:2 Fluorotelomer Sulfonate, GenX, and Perfluoroalkyl Acids by Urban Spontaneous Plants. ACS ES&T Engineering Article. April 18, 2022. DOI: 10.1021/acsestengg.1c00423. PDF | Bioaccumulation and Translocation of 6:2 Fluorotelomer Sulfonate, GenX, and Perfluoroalkyl Acids by Urban Spontaneous Plants | Khara Grieger | 2022 | 4/18/2022 | There is limited information available regarding the bioaccumulation potential of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in urban vegetation. Using a controlled greenhouse exposure setting, we investigated the bioaccumulation and translocation of select PFAS in four common urban spontaneous plants. Target compounds included legacy PFAS (perfluoroalkyl carboxylic and sulfonic acids, PFCA/PFSA), a fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS), and an emerging fluorinated ether (i.e., hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA), or GenX). Results from this study showed that bioaccumulation factors in root and shoot (BCFroot and BCFshoot) ranged from 0.7 to 83.6 and 0.95 to 26.9, respectively. Phyllanthus urinaria harbored the highest PFAS bioaccumulation capacity among the four urban weed species. The log BCFroot of PFCA homologues showed a concave shape as a function of chain length, while log BCFroot of PFSA increased with chain length. The BCFroot of GenX was lower than that of PFOA; likewise, 6:2 FTS bioaccumulated to a less extent than PFOS. Root uptake seemed to be the dominant accumulation mechanism for the shorter-chain compounds, whereas adsorption was the dominant mechanism for longer-chain compounds such as PFOA. BCFroot and BCFshoot showed consistent trends in response to foliar and root characteristics. Leaf area and average root diameter were the most correlated traits with PFAS bioaccumulation factors, with higher BCF values for plants with smaller leaves and finer roots. This study also provides an important basis for the role and selection of urban weeds in future PFAS bioaccumulation and translocation studies within urban settings. | GenX (HFPO-DA), 6:2 FTS, Urban Spontaneous Plants, Bioaccumulation, Phytoremediation | 10.1021/acsestengg.1c00423 | https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsestengg.1c00423 | 10.1021/acsestengg.1c00423 | ACS ES&T Engineering Article | |||
| Grieger K., Merck A., Kuzma K. (2022) Formulating best practices for responsible innovation of nano-agrifoods through stakeholder insights and reflection. Journal of Responsible Technology 10. doi: 10.1016/j.jrt.2022.100030. PDF Graphical abstract | Formulating best practices for responsible innovation of nano-agrifoods through stakeholder insights and reflection | Khara Grieger, Ashton Merck, Jennifer Kuzma | 2022 | 4/5/2022 | Nanotechnology in food and agriculture (nano-agrifoods) may provide numerous benefits to society. At the same time, previous experiences have demonstrated the importance of innovating responsibly. This study reports on stakeholder-identified actions to address concerns about nano-agrifoods and actions to ensure their responsible innovation (RI). We find stakeholders largely supported actions to address risk and safety, followed by governance actions, the examination of ‘need,’ and identification of clear benefits. Participants also indicated no actions would address their concerns in several cases, largely for nano-in food products without a clear ‘need’ and risk/benefit comparisons. We conclude by highlighting four best practices to foster RI of nano-agrifoods, with relevancy for other novel agrifood technologies, including the institutionalization of RI, education and training next generation of researchers and innovators, use of tiered approaches to implement RI principles at different levels and degrees, and incorporation of monitoring and learning systems to improve RI practices | Discusses stakeholder-identified actions for responsible innovation (RI) in nano-agrifoods, a field with potential benefits and risks. The research highlights four best practices: institutionalizing RI, training future researchers and innovators, implementing RI principles at different levels using a tiered approach, and introducing monitoring and learning systems to improve RI practices. These insights are relevant not just for nano-agrifoods, but for other novel agrifood technologies as well. | Nanotechnology, Food, Agriculture, Stakeholders, Responsible Innovation | 10.1016/j.jrt.2022.100030 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666659622000075 | 10.1016/j.jrt.2022.100030 | Journal of Responsible Technology | ||
| Baun A., Grieger K. (2022) Environmental Risk Assessment of Emerging Contaminants—The Case of Nanomaterials. In: Guo LH., Mortimer M. (eds) Advances in Toxicology and Risk Assessment of Nanomaterials and Emerging Contaminants. Springer, Singapore. doi: 10.1007/978-981-16-9116-4_15. PDF | Environmental Risk Assessment of Emerging Contaminants—The Case of Nanomaterials | Khara Grieger | 2022 | 3/12/2022 | Risk assessment is a powerful tool to help evaluate potential environmental and health risks of novel materials. However, traditional risk assessment frameworks and methods often face significant challenges when evaluating novel materials due to uncertainties and data gaps. Engineered nanomaterials is one prominent example of new, advanced materials whereby scientists, researchers and decision-makers are still discussing best practices to modify and update risk assessment frameworks after nearly two decades of research. This chapter focuses on how early warning signs within the environmental risk assessment development process for nanomaterials were addressed with a focus on characterizing uncertainty. We shed light on how environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials transitioned from a state of “known unknowns� to data-driven inputs to conducting risk assessments. We also discuss ecotoxicological testing considerations, and in particular how methodological and technical challenges were addressed. Finally, we provide recommendations on how best to transfer identified best practices and knowledge to other emerging technologies and advanced materials. | Risk Assessment, Nanomaterials, Uncertainty, Hazard, Exposure | 10.1007/978-981-16-9116-4_15 | https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-16-9116-4_15 "_blank">Environmental Risk Assessment of Emerging Contaminants—The Case of Nanomaterials | 10.1007/978-981-16-9116-4_15 | Advances in Toxicology and Risk Assessment of Nanomaterials and Emerging Contaminants | |||
| Grieger, K., Zarate, S., Barnhill, S.K., Hunt, S., Jones, D., Kuzma, J. 2022. Fostering Responsible Innovation through Stakeholder Engagement: Case Study of North Carolina Sweetpotato Stakeholders. Sustainability, 14, 2274. doi: 10.3390/su14042274 PDF | Fostering Responsible Innovation through Stakeholder Engagement: Case Study of North Carolina Sweetpotato Stakeholders | Khara Grieger, Sebastian Zarate, Katie Barnhill, Daniela Jones, Jennifer Kuzma | 2022 | 2/17/2022 | Stakeholder and community engagement are critical for the successful development of new technologies that aim to be integrated into sustainable agriculture systems. This study reports on an approach used to engage stakeholders within the sweetpotato community in North Carolina to understand their preferences, needs, and concerns as they relate to a new sensing and diagnostic platform. This work also demonstrates an example of real-time technology assessment that also fosters responsible innovation through inclusivity and responsiveness. Through the conduction of 29 interviews with sweetpotato stakeholders in North Carolina, we found that participants found the most value in detecting external sweetpotato characteristics, as well as the ability to use or connect to a smartphone that can be used in field. They also found value in including environmental parameters and having a Spanish language module. Most participants indicated that they were comfortable with sharing data as long as it benefited the greater North Carolina sweetpotato industry, and were concerned with sharing these data with “outside� competitors. We also observed differences and variations between stakeholder groups. Overall, this work demonstrates a relatively simple, low-cost approach to eliciting stakeholder needs within a local agricultural context to improve sustainability, an approach that could be leveraged and transferred to other local agrifood systems. | Responsible Innovation, Stakeholder Engagement, Sustainability, Sweetpotatoes | 10.3390/su14042274 | https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/4/2274 | 10.3390/su14042274 | Sustainability | |||
| Ruzante, J. M., Shumaker, E. T., Holt, S., Mayer, S., Kokotovich, A., Cuchiara, M., Binder, A. R., Kuzma, J., & Grieger, K. (2022). Eliciting stakeholder perceptions using a novel online engagement platform: A case study on nano-agrifoods. RTI Press. RTI Press Occasional Paper No. OP-0071-2201. doi: 10.3768/rtipress.2022.op.0071.2201 PDF | Eliciting stakeholder perceptions using a novel online engagement platform: A case study on nano-agrifoods | Adam Kokotovich, Andrew Binder, Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger | 2022 | 1/31/2022 | Stakeholder engagement is an important component in developing policies on critical issues such as the use and development of novel methods and technologies, including biotechnologies and nanotechnologies. Understanding the perspectives, needs, and concerns of stakeholder groups can facilitate the development of transparent and trusted policy recommendations. Innovative online research platforms have been developed as alternatives to typical stakeholder engagement methods such as in-person focus groups, interviews, and online and paper surveys. These platforms facilitate the engagement of geographically and linguistically (i.e., individuals who speak different languages) diverse stakeholders using a wide range of methods, from virtual focus groups to surveys. Stakeholders can participate at their own leisure and anonymously, which can facilitate more open interactions on issues where viewpoints may differ. In this work, we used an online stakeholder engagement platform (OSEP) to engage stakeholders and capture their perceptions and views about the application of nanotechnology in food and agriculture (nano-agrifood) and the role of responsible innovation in the development of nano-agrifood products. The OSEP provided a reliable and interactive environment for stakeholders to share their views and exchange ideas. Such OSEPs should be further explored as novel tools for engaging stakeholders on a range of issues from emerging technologies to public health. | Stakeholder Engagement, Nanotechnology, Governance, Responsible Innovation, Food, Agriculture | 10.3768/rtipress.2022.op.0071.2201 | https://www.rti.org/rti-press-publication/nanotechnology-in-food | 10.3768/rtipress.2022.op.0071.2201 | RTI Press | |||
| Kokotovich, A.E., Kuzma, J., Cummings, C.L., Grieger, K.. Responsible Innovation Definitions, Practices, and Motivations from Nanotechnology Researchers in Food and Agriculture. Nanoethics (2021). doi: 10.1007/s11569-021-00404-9 PDF | Responsible Innovation Definitions, Practices, and Motivations from Nanotechnology Researchers in Food and Agriculture | Adam Kokotovich, Jennifer Kuzma, Christopher L. Cummings, Khara Grieger | 2021 | 12/18/2021 | The growth of responsible innovation (RI) scholarship has been mirrored by a proliferation of RI definitions and practices, as well as a recognition of the importance of context for RI. This study investigates how researchers in the field of nanotechnology for food and agriculture (nano-agrifoods) define and practice RI, as well as what motivations they see for pursuing RI. We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews with nano-agrifood researchers from industry and academia in the USA, where we asked them to describe their RI definitions, practices, and motivations. We analyzed the emergent themes from these interviews, including how the themes aligned with four prominent RI principles (anticipation, inclusion, reflexivity, responsiveness). We found that nano-agrifood researchers largely focused their descriptions of RI definitions, practices, and motivations around a narrow envisioning of the RI principle of anticipation — emphasizing product safety, efficacy, and efficiency. We also found noteworthy tensions surrounding the less frequently mentioned RI principles. For example, some researchers envisioned inclusion as a way to align products with industry interests while others saw it as a way to align products with the public good. Concerning motivations for RI, some researchers viewed RI as a way to protect one’s reputation and avoid lawsuits while others viewed it as a way to improve human well-being and solve societal problems. Given these findings, future efforts to foster RI within nano-agrifoods should promote discussions among researchers concerning what it means to responsibly innovate and what practices this could entail, particularly beyond ensuring product safety, efficacy, and efficiency. | Responsible Innovation, Nanotechnology, Food, Agriculture, Governance, Qualitative Research | 10.1007/s11569-021-00404-9 | https://rdcu.be/cEHOW | 10.1007/s11569-021-00404-9 | Nanoethics | |||
| Grieger, K.D, Merck, A.W., Cuchiara, M., Binder, A.R., Kokotovich, A., Cummings, C.L., Kuzma, J. Responsible innovation of nano-agrifoods: Insights and views from U.S. stakeholders. NanoImpact, Volume 24, 2021, doi: 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100365. PDF | Responsible innovation of nano-agrifoods: Insights and views from U.S. stakeholders | Khara Grieger, Ashton Merck, Andrew Binder, Adam Kokotovich, Christopher L. Cummings, Jennifer Kuzma | 2021 | 11/17/2021 | To date, there has been little published work that has elicited diverse stakeholder views of nano-agrifoods and of how nano-agrifoods align with the goals of responsible innovation. This paper aims to fill this research gap by investigating views of nano-agrifoods, how well their development adheres to principles of responsible innovation, and potential challenges for achieving responsible nano-agrifood innovation. Using an online engagement platform, we find that U.S. stakeholder views of responsible innovation were dominated by environmental, health, and safety (EHS) contexts, considerations of societal impacts, opportunities for stakeholder engagement, and responding to societal needs. These views overlap with scholarly definitions of responsible innovation, albeit stakeholders were more focused on impacts of products, while the field of responsible innovation strives for more “upstream� considerations of the process of innovation. We also find that views of nano-agrifoods differed across applications with dietary supplements and improved whitening of infant formula viewed least favorably, and environmental health or food safety applications viewed most favorably. These findings align with the larger body of literature, whereby stakeholders are expected to be more supportive of nanotechnology used in agricultural applications compared to directly within food and food supplements. Overall, participants indicated they held relatively neutral views on research and innovation for nano-agrifoods being conducted responsibly, and they identified key challenges to ensuring their responsible innovation that were related to uncertainties in EHS studies, the need for public understanding and acceptance, and adequate regulation. In light of these results, we recommend future research efforts on EHS impacts and risk-benefit frameworks for nano-agrifoods, better understanding stakeholder views on what constitutes effective regulation, and addressing challenges with effective regulation and responsible innovation practices. Graphical abstract | Food And Agriculture, Nanotechnology, Responsible Innovation, Stakeholder Engagement | 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100365 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2452074821000744?via=ihub | 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100365 | ||||
| Grieger, K., Isigonis, P., Franken, R., Wigger, H., Bossa, N., Janer, G., Rycroft, T., Kennedy, A., Hansen, S.F. 2021. Chapter 5: Risk Screening Tools for Engineering Nanomaterials. IN: Ethics in Nanotechnology: Social Sciences and Philosophical Aspects, edited by Marcel Van de Voorde and Gunjan Jeswani, Berlin, Boston: De Gruyter, 2021, pp. 89-108. doi: 10.1515/9783110719932-005 | Risk Screening Tools for Engineering Nanomaterials | Khara Grieger | 2021 | 8/27/2021 | It has now been more than 15 years since scientists, researchers, risk analyzers, policymakers, and other decision-makers initiated comprehensive investigations into the potential environmental, health, and safety risks of engineered nanomaterials. During this time, various tools have been proposed and/or developed to screen potential environmental, health, and safety risks of engineered nanomaterials. Risk screening tools provide a first-tiered, screening-level evaluation to better understand risks without significant time and resource investments. Stakeholders interested in obtaining an initial screen of potential environmental, health, and safety risks of a nanomaterial or product may find risk screening tools particularly useful to formulate decisions, and/or communicate potential risks to stakeholders. This chapter overviews five leading risk screening tools developed specifically for nanomaterials: NanoRiskCat, Swiss Precautionary Matrix, LICARA nanoSCAN, NanoGRID, and GUIDEnano. The selected tools differ in scope, aims, underlying methodologies, and generated output. These tools were selected for further exploration due to the maturity of their development, application in multiple case studies, projects, and initiatives. After highlighting the main features of each of the risk screening tools, we provide brief guidance on their use and formulate broad recommendations for the field of nanomaterial risk screening tool development. | Environmental Health And Safety, Nanotechnology, Nanomaterials, Risk Screening | 10.1515/9783110719932-005 | https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/9783110719932-005/html | 10.1515/9783110719932-005 | ||||
| Zhi, Y., Call, D., Grieger, K., Duckworth, O., Jones, J.L., Knappe, D. 2021. Influence of Natural Organic Matter and pH on Phosphate Removal by and Lanthanum Release from Lanthanum-Modified Bentonite. Water Research; doi: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117399. PDF | Influence of Natural Organic Matter and pH on Phosphate Removal by and Lanthanum Release from Lanthanum-Modified Bentonite | Khara Grieger | 2021 | 6/28/2021 | Lanthanum modified bentonite (LMB) has been applied to eutrophic lakes to reduce phosphorus (P) concentrations in the water column and mitigate P release from sediments. Previous experiments suggest that natural organic matter (NOM) can interfere with phosphate (PO4)-binding to LMB and exacerbate lanthanum (La)-release from bentonite. This evidence served as motivation for this study to systematically determine the effects of NOM, solution pH, and bentonite as a La carrier on P removal. We conducted both geochemical modeling and controlled-laboratory batch kinetic experiments to understand the pH-dependent impacts of humic and fulvic acids on PO4-binding to LMB and La release from LMB. The role of bentonite was studied by comparing PO4 removal obtained by LMB and La3+ (added as LaCl3 salt to represent the La-containing component of LMB). Our results from both geochemical modeling and batch experiments indicate that the PO4-binding ability of LMB is decreased in the presence of NOM, and the decrease is more pronounced at pH 8.5 than at 6. At the highest evaluated NOM concentration (28 mg C L−1), PO4-removal by La3+ was substantially lower than that by LMB, implying that bentonite clay in LMB shielded La from interactions with NOM, while still allowing PO4capture by La. Finally, the presence of NOM promoted La-release from LMB, and the amount of La released depended on solution pH and both the type (i.e., fulvic/humic acid ratio) and concentration of NOM. Overall, these results provide an important basis for management of P in lakes and eutrophication control that relies on LMB applications. | Eutrophication, Lake Restoration, Lanthanum Release, Humic And Fulvic Acid, Phosphate Management | 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117399 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2021.117399 | 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117399 | ||||
| Cummings Christopher L., Kuzma Jennifer, Kokotovich Adam, Glas David, Grieger Khara (2021). Barriers to responsible innovation of nanotechnology applications in food and agriculture: A study of US experts and developers. NanoImpact, 100326, ISSN 2452-0748. doi:10.1016/j.impact.2021.100326. PDF | Barriers to responsible innovation of nanotechnology applications in food and agriculture: A study of US experts and developers | Christopher L. Cummings, Jennifer Kuzma, Adam Kokotovich, Khara Grieger | 2021 | 5/23/2021 | The use of nanotechnology and engineered nanomaterials in food and agriculture (nano-agrifood) sectors is intended to provide several potential benefits to consumers and society, such as the provision of more nutritious processed foods, edible food coatings to extend shelf lives of fresh cut produce, and more sustainable alternatives to traditional agrochemicals. The responsible innovation of nano-agrifoods may be particularly important to pursue given previous case studies involving other agrifood technologies that experienced significant public consternation. Here, we define responsible innovation following Stilgoej et al. (2013) that establishes processes to iteratively review and reflect upon one's innovation, engage stakeholders in dialogue, and to be open and transparent throughout innovation stages – processes that go beyond primary focuses of understanding environmental, health, and safety impacts of nano-enabled products and implementing safe-by-design principles. Despite calls for responsible nano-innovation across diverse sectors, it has not yet been clear what types of barriers are faced by nano-agrifood researchers and innovators in particular. This study therefore identifies and builds the first typology of barriers to responsible innovation as perceived by researchers and product developers working in nano-agrifood sectors in the United States. Our findings report 5 key barriers to responsible innovation of nano-agrifoods: Lack of Data (reported by 70% of all interview participants, and represented 34.6% of all barrier-related excerpts), Lack of Product Oversight (reported by 60% of participants, and represented 28.7% of excerpts), Need for Ensuring Marketability & Use (reported by 70% of participants, and represented 21.3% of all barrier-related excerpts), Need for Increased Collaboration (reported by 40% of participants, and represented 10.3% of excerpts), and finally Lack of Adequate Training & Workforce (reported by 30% of participants, and represented by 5.1% of excerpts). We also relate these key barriers across three main nano-innovation phases, including 1) Scientific and Technical R&D, 2) Product Oversight, and 3) Post-commercialization Marketability & Use, and discuss how these barriers may impact stakeholders as well as present opportunities to align with principles of responsible innovation. Overall, these findings may help illuminate challenges that researchers and innovators face in the pursuit of responsible innovation relevant for the field of nanotechnology with relevancy for other emerging food and agricultural technologies more broadly. | Responsible Innovation, Nanotechnology, Nano-Agrifood | 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100326 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2452074821000355 | 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100326 | ||||
| Kuiken T, Barrangou R, Grieger K. (Broken) Promises of Sustainable Food and Agriculture through New Biotechnologies: The CRISPR Case. CRISPR J. 2021 Feb 10:1-7. doi: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0098.PDF | (Broken) Promises of Sustainable Food and Agriculture through New Biotechnologies: The CRISPR Case | Todd Kuiken, Rodolphe Barrangou, Khara Grieger | 2021 | 2/10/2021 | In recent years, the development of diverse CRISPR-based technologies has revolutionized genome manipulation and enabled a broad scientific community in industry, academia, and beyond to redefine research and development for biotechnology products encompassing food, agriculture, and medicine. CRISPR-based genome editing affords tremendous opportunities in agriculture for the breeding of crops and livestock across the food supply chain that could benefit larger portions of the population compared to CRISPR applications in medicine, for example by helping to feed a growing global population, reach sustainability goals, and possibly mitigate the effects of climate change. These promises come alongside concerns of risks and adverse impacts associated with CRISPR-based genome editing and concerns that governance systems that are ill equipped or not well suited to evaluate these risks. The international community will continue to gather, in multiple venues, in the coming years to discuss these concerns. At the same time, responsible research and innovation paradigms also promise to evaluate the risks and benefits better while incorporating broad stakeholder engagement across the research and development process. The CRISPR community therefore must actively engage with these international deliberations, society, and national governance systems that have promised to build better agricultural systems and provide better food products to achieve equitable outcomes while protecting the environment. Without this active engagement, the promises discussed in this paper are sure to be broken. | CRISPR, Stakeholder Engagement, Responsible Research And Innovation | 10.1089/crispr.2020.0098 | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33570455/ | 10.1089/crispr.2020.0098 | ||||
| Kuzma, J. and Grieger, K. 2020. Community-led governance for gene-edited crops. Science, Vol. 370, Issue 6519. doi: 10.1126/science.abd1512 | Community-led governance for gene-edited crops | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger | 2020 | 11/20/2020 | New government regulations for biotechnology will create gaps in oversight of gene-edited crops and the provision of information to consumers. With this lack of transparency, gene-edited crop developers may be reconstituting the same conditions that led to public rejection and mistrust of the 1st generation of GM foods. Based on our decades of experience and the literature on risk governance and GM crops, we propose a “Community-Led Responsible Governance� (CLEAR-GOV) coalition and certification process for biotech crops based on information-sharing about the host plants, traits, environment, and current and anticipated market uses of gene-edited and other GM crops. CLEAR-GOV would be led by an independent non-profit coalition, a stakeholder advisory group, and a public advisory group that is diverse in representation of viewpoints and interests. Commitment to CLEAR-GOV will enable the agricultural biotechnology community to earn greater public trust through the open, inclusive, and transparent monitoring of biotech crop use. | Responsible Innovation, Biotechnology, Governance, CRISPR, Gene-Editing | 10.1126/science.abd1512 | https://science.sciencemag.org/content/370/6519/916 | 10.1126/science.abd1512 | ||||
| Doydora, S., Gatiboni, L., Grieger, K., Hesterberg, D., Jones, J., McLamore, E., Peters, R., Sozzani, R., Van den Broeck, L., Duckworth O. Accessing Legacy Phosphorus in Soil. Soil Systems, 4(74): doi:10.3390/soilsystems4040074 PDF | Accessing Legacy Phosphorus in Soil | Khara Grieger | 2020 | 12/18/2020 | Repeated applications of phosphorus (P) fertilizers result in the buildup of P in soil (commonly known as legacy P), a large fraction of which is not immediately available for plant use. Long-term applications and accumulations of soil P is an inefficient use of dwindling P supplies and can result in nutrient runoff, often leading to eutrophication of water bodies. Although soil legacy P is problematic in some regards, it conversely may serve as a source of P for crop use and could potentially decrease dependence on external P fertilizer inputs. This paper reviews the (1) current knowledge on the occurrence and bioaccessibility of different chemical forms of P in soil, (2) legacy P transformations with mineral and organic fertilizer applications in relation to their potential bioaccessibility, and (3) approaches and associated challenges for accessing native soil P that could be used to harness soil legacy P for crop production. We highlight how the occurrence and potential bioaccessibility of different forms of soil inorganic and organic P vary depending on soil properties, such as soil pH and organic matter content. We also found that accumulation of inorganic legacy P forms changes more than organic P species with fertilizer applications and cessations. We also discuss progress and challenges with current approaches for accessing native soil P that could be used for accessing legacy P, including natural and genetically modified plant-based strategies, the use of P-solubilizing microorganisms, and immobilized organic P-hydrolyzing enzymes. It is foreseeable that accessing legacy P will require multidisciplinary approaches to address these limitations. | Legacy Phosphorus, Speciation, Transformation, Accessibility | 10.3390/soilsystems4040074 | https://www.mdpi.com/2571-8789/4/4/74/htm | 10.3390/soilsystems4040074 | ||||
| Zhi, Y., Zhang, C., Hjorth, R., Baun, A., Duckworth, O.W., Call, D.F., Knappe, D.R.U., Jones, J.L., Grieger, K. (2020) Emerging lanthanum (III)-containing materials for phosphate removal from water: A review towards future developments. Environment International, 435: 109257. DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106115 PDF | Emerging lanthanum (III)-containing materials for phosphate removal from water: A review towards future developments | Khara Grieger | 2020 | 9/21/2020 | The last two decades have seen a rise in the development of lanthanum (III)-containing materials (LM) for controlling phosphate in the aquatic environment. >70 papers have been published on this topic in the peer-reviewed literature, but mechanisms of phosphate removal by LM as well as potential environmental impacts of LM remain unclear. In this review, we summarize peer-reviewed scientific articles on the development and use of 80 different types of LM in terms of prospective benefits, potential ecological impacts, and research needs. We find that the main benefits of LM for phosphate removal are their ability to strongly bind phosphate under diverse environmental conditions (e.g., over a wide pH range, in the presence of diverse aqueous constituents). The maximum phosphate uptake capacity of LM correlates primarily with the La content of LM, whereas reaction kinetics are influenced by LM formulation and ambient environmental conditions (e.g., pH, presence of co-existing ions, ligands, organic matter). Increased La solubilization can occur under some environmental conditions, including at moderately acidic pH values (i.e., 7 and moderate-to-high bicarbonate alkalinity, although caution should be applied when considering LM use in aquatic systems with acidic pH values and low bicarbonate alkalinity. Moving forward, we recommend additional research dedicated to understanding La release from LM under diverse environmental conditions as well as long-term exposures on ecological organisms, particularly primary producers and benthic organisms. Further, site-specific monitoring could be useful for evaluating potential impacts of LM on both biotic and abiotic systems post-application. | Lanthanum, Phosphate, Surface Water Restoration, Eutrophication Control, Phosphorus Inactivation | 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106115 | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2020.106115 | 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106115 | ||||
| Huang, Y., Li, W., Gao, J., Wang, F., Yang, W., Han, L., Lin, D., Min, B., Zhi, Y., Grieger, K., Yao, J. Effect of microplastics on ecosystem function: Microbial nitrogen removal mediated by benthic macroinvertebrates. Science of the Total Environment, doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142133. | Effect of microplastics on ecosystem function: Microbial nitrogen removal mediated by benthic macroinvertebrates | Khara Grieger | 2020 | 9/7/2020 | While ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics on aquatic organisms have started to be investigated recently, impacts on ecosystem functions mediated by benthic biota remain largely unknown. We investigated the effect of microplastics on nitrogen removal in freshwater sediments where microorganisms and benthic invertebrates (i.e., chironomid larvae) co-existed. Using microcosm experiments, sediments with and without invertebrate chironomid larvae were exposed to microplastics (polyethylene) at concentrations of 0, 0.1, and 1 wt%. After 28 days of exposure, the addition of microplastics or chironomid larvae promoted the growth of denitrifying and anammox bacteria, leading to increased total nitrogen removal, in both cases. However, in microcosms with chironomid larvae and microplastics co-existing, nitrogen removal was less than the sum of their individual effects, especially at microplastics concentration of 1 wt%, indicating an adverse effect on microbial nitrogen removal mediated by macroinvertebrates. This study reveals that the increasing concentration of microplastics entangled the nitrogen cycling mediated by benthic invertebrates in freshwater ecosystems. These findings highlight the pursuit of a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of microplastics on the functioning in freshwater ecosystems. | Microplastics, Nitrogen Removal Function, Denitrification, Anammox, Chironomids, Microorganisms | 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142133 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S004896972035662X | 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142133 | ||||
| Saia, S., Nelson, N., Huseth, A., Grieger, K., Reich, B., Transitioning Machine Learning from Theory to Practice in Natural Resource Management. Ecological Modelling, 435: 109257. DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2020.109257 PDF | Transitioning Machine Learning from Theory to Practice in Natural Resource Management | Khara Grieger | 2020 | 9/2/2020 | Advances in sensing and computation have accelerated at unprecedented rates and scales, in turn creating new opportunities for natural resources managers to improve adaptive and predictive management practices by coupling large environmental datasets with machine learning (ML). Yet, to date, ML models often remain inaccessible to managers working outside of academic research. To identify challenges preventing natural resources managers from putting ML into practice more broadly, we convened a group of 23 stakeholders (i.e., applied researchers and practitioners) who model and analyze data collected from environmental and agricultural systems. Workshop participants shared many barriers regarding their perceptions of, and experiences with, ML modeling. These barriers emphasized three main areas of concern: ML model transparency, availability of educational resources, and the role of process-based understanding in ML model development. Informed by workshop participant input, we offer recommendations on how the ecological modelling community canovercome key barriers preventing ML model use in natural resources management and advance the profession towards data-driven decision-making. | Machine Learning, Natural Resources Management, Stakeholders, Decision-Support Tools, Decision-Making, Process-Based Modeling | 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2020.109257 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304380020303276?via=ihub | 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2020.109257 | ||||
| Kuzma, Jennifer, Khara D. Grieger, Zachary S. Brown, and Christopher L. Cummings. “Pandemics Call for Systems Approaches to Research and Funding.� Issues in Science and Technology (May 4, 2020) Download PDF | Pandemics Call for Systems Approaches to Research and Funding | Jennifer Kuzma, Khara Grieger, Christopher L. Cummings, Zack Brown | 2020 | 5/4/2020 | National strategies must incorporate social as well as natural sciences. | Coronavirus, COVID-19, Governance, Social Sciences | https://issues.org/pandemics-call-for-systems-approaches/ | 0 | |||||
| Porcari, A., Borsella, E., Benighaus, C., Grieger, K. et al. From risk perception to risk governance in nanotechnology: a multi-stakeholder study. Journal of Nanoparticle Research (2019) 21: 245. doi: 10.1007/s11051-019-4689-9. Published: 21 November 2019. Download PDF | From risk perception to risk governance in nanotechnology: a multi-stakeholder study. | Khara Grieger | 2019 | 11/21/2019 | Nanotechnology is widely used in several industrial and consumer sectors and has the potential to grow further and expand globally. An exploration of stakeholder (SH)’s perceptions is essential to ensuring that robust risk governance processes are in place for nanotechnology and nano-related products. In response, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate SH’s perceptions of nanotechnology and nano-related products over the past 15 years. To build on this work and to capture current perceptions across a wide panel of SHs, we conducted a multi-national and cross-sectoral SH study of awareness, perceptions and opinions regarding the use and potential impact on society and the environment of nanomaterials (NMs) and nano-related products, and SH’s expectations about risk governance. The study was conducted using both quantitative and qualitative inquiries and targeted more than 3000 SHs across different sectors in a total of 15 countries. Results showed a tendency towards more convergence of opinions amongst all the relevant SHs and the public respondents than in past studies. There was consensus on the crucial importance of having unbiased, scientific and trustable information regarding the potential impacts of NMs and nano-related products on the environment, health and safety. SHs were interested in having more internationally harmonised and robust regulation for NMs and nano-related products; improved scientific evidence on nanomaterial hazards, exposures and effects; as well as specific guidance on the safe use of NMs. Overall, this work provides an updated scenario of SHs’ perceptions regarding nanotechnology and nano-related products, underscoring the importance of including SH needs in effective risk governance strategies. | Nanomaterials, Nano-Related Products, Risk Assessment, Risk Management, Risk Communication, Decision Analysis, Risk-Benefit Of Nanomaterials, Societal Implications | 10.1007/s11051-019-4689-9 | https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11051-019-4689-9 | 10.1007/s11051-019-4689-9 | ||||
| Khara Grieger, Jacob L. Jones, Steffen Foss Hansen, Christine Ogilvie Hendren, Keld Alstrup Jensen, Jennifer Kuzma & Anders Baun . Best practices from nano-risk analysis relevant for other emerging technologies. Nature Nanotechnology, 14, pages 998–1001(2019) doi: 10.1038/s41565-019-0572-1. Published: 06 November 2019. Download PDF | Best practices from nano-risk analysis relevant for other emerging technologies | Khara Grieger | 2019 | 11/6/2019 | The experiences gained from the past 15 years of nanomaterial risk analysis may be useful for the risk analysis efforts of other emerging technologies. | Environmental Health And Safety Issues, Research Management | 10.1038/s41565-019-0572-1 | https://rdcu.be/bWvQE | 10.1038/s41565-019-0572-1 | ||||
| Ninell P. Mortensen, Leah M. Johnson, Khara D. Grieger, Jeffrey L. Ambroso, Timothy R. Fennell. Biological Interactions between Nanomaterials and Placental Development and Function Following Oral Exposure. Reproductive Toxicology - Published Online August 2019. ISSN 0890-6238, doi: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.08.016. | Biological Interactions between Nanomaterials and Placental Development and Function Following Oral Exposure | Khara Grieger | 2019 | 8/30/2019 | We summarize the literature involving the deposition of nanomaterials within the placenta following oral exposure and the biological interactions between nanomaterials and placental development and function. The review focuses on the oral exposure of metal and metal oxide engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), carbon-based ENMs, and nanoplastics in animal models, with a minor discussion of intravenous injections. Although the literature suggests that the placenta is an efficient barrier in preventing nanomaterials from reaching the fetus, nanomaterials that accumulate in the placenta may interfere with its development and function. Furthermore, some studies have demonstrated a decrease in placental weight and association with adverse fetal health outcomes following oral exposure to nanomaterials. Since nanomaterials are increasingly used in food, food packaging, and have been discovered in drinking water, the risk for adverse impacts on placental development and functions, with secondary effects on embryo-fetal development, following unintentional maternal ingestion of nanomaterials requires further investigation. | Nanoparticles, Nano-Toxicology, Placental Function | 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.08.016 | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0890623818306701 | 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.08.016 | ||||
| Isigonis P, Hristozov D, Benighaus C, Giubilato E, Grieger K, Pizzol L, Semenzin E, Linkov I, Zabeo A, Marcomini A. Risk Governance of Nanomaterials: Review of Criteria and Tools for Risk Communication, Evaluation, and Mitigation. Nanomaterials. 2019; 9(5):696. doi: 10.3390/nano9050696 Download PDF | Risk Governance of Nanomaterials: Review of Criteria and Tools for Risk Communication, Evaluation, and Mitigation | Khara Grieger | 2019 | 5/4/2019 | Nanotechnologies have been increasingly used in industrial applications and consumer products across several sectors, including construction, transportation, energy, and healthcare. The widespread application of these technologies has raised concerns regarding their environmental, health, societal, and economic impacts. This has led to the investment of enormous resources in Europe and beyond into the development of tools to facilitate the risk assessment and management of nanomaterials, and to inform more robust risk governance process. In this context, several risk governance frameworks have been developed. In our study, we present and review those, and identify a set of criteria and tools for risk evaluation, mitigation, and communication, the implementation of which can inform better risk management decision-making by various stakeholders from e.g., industry, regulators, and the civil society. Based on our analysis, we recommend specific methods from decision science and information technologies that can improve the existing risk governance tools so that they can communicate, evaluate, and mitigate risks more transparently, taking stakeholder perspectives and expert opinion into account, and considering all relevant criteria in establishing the risk-benefit balance of these emerging technologies to enable more robust decisions about the governance of their risks. | Nanomaterials, Nanotechnology, Risk Analysis, Tools, Communication, Stakeholders | 10.3390/nano9050696 | https://www.mdpi.com/2079-4991/9/5/696 | 10.3390/nano9050696 | ||||
| Khara D. Grieger, Tyler Felgenhauer, Ortwin Renn, Jonathan Wiener, Mark Borsuk (2019). Emerging risk governance for stratospheric aerosol injection as a climate management technology. Environment Systems and Decisions. doi: 10.1007/s10669-019-09730-6. Download | Emerging risk governance for stratospheric aerosol injection as a climate management technology | Khara Grieger | 2019 | 5/1/2019 | Stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) as a solar radiation management (SRM) technology may provide a cost-effective means of avoiding some of the worst impacts of climate change, being perhaps orders of magnitude less expensive than greenhouse gas emissions mitigation. At the same time, SAI technologies have deeply uncertain economic and environmental impacts and complex ethical, legal, political, and international relations ramifications. Robust governance strategies are needed to manage the many potential benefits, risks, and uncertainties related to SAI. This perspective reviews the International Risk Governance Council (IRGC)’s guidelines for emerging risk governance (ERG) as an approach for responsible consideration of SAI, given the IRGC’s experience in governing other more conventional risks. We examine how the five steps of the IRGC’s ERG guidelines would address the complex, uncertain, and ambiguous risks presented by SAI. Diverse risks are identified in Step 1, scenarios to amplify or dissipate the risks are identified in Step 2, and applicable risk management options identified in Step 3. Steps 4 and 5 involve implementation and review by risk managers within an established organization. For full adoption and promulgation of the IRGC’s ERG guidelines, an international consortium or governing body (or set of bodies) should be tasked with governance and oversight. This Perspective provides a first step at reviewing the risk governance tasks that such a body would undertake and contributes to the growing literature on best practices for SRM governance. | Risk Governance, Climate Engineering, Stratospheric Aerosols | 10.1007/s10669-019-09730-6. | https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23299460.2019.1591145 | 10.1007/s10669-019-09730-6. |
