The sixth Quarterly Newsletter by the International Biosecurity Education Network (IBSEN) continues our exploration of the implementation of biosecurity education initiatives, focusing on how active, participatory, values-driven approaches can embed a culture of responsibility at the earliest stages of scientific careers.
This issue’s Special Topic examines the multifaceted approach of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Foundation in embedding robust biosafety, biosecurity, and ethical values within its global community, in particular through its annual Competition. By pairing mandatory safeguards with incentives that reward best practices—and making it fun—iGEM fosters a global culture of responsibility that reaches well beyond the competition itself.
This Newsletter also details our contributions at the Sixth Meeting of the Working Group on Strengthening the BTWC in August 2025 including our side event, Biosecurity education: from concept to implementation. It provides a brief report on discussions in Geneva regarding the establishment of an IBSEN within the BTWC Implementation Support Unit, and looks ahead at our planned efforts to continue building momentum—including through our upcoming October workshop, which explores the implications of emerging science and technology for biosecurity education.
Please let us know if anyone in your organisation would also like to receive our updates!
You can now access the Sixth Quarterly Newsletter on our ISBEN website.