LERU into Action – Raising awareness about Dual-Use Research

 

The role of universities in today’s society is becoming increasingly complex, and scientific research has become a major political and societal issue. Researchers now produce findings that can lead to beneficial applications (in medicine, energy, environment), but that can also, sometimes indirectly, result in potentially harmful uses—such as biological or chemical weapons, or cyberattacks. This is known as “Dual Use” research, with both civilian and military applications, and it raises a wide range of ethical and legal questions.

These concerns are actively discussed within the League of European Research Universities (LERU), helping to identify best practices. On May 9, experts from LERU—affiliated with the University of Edinburgh and ETH Zurich—visited the Faculty of Science to present the current landscape on this topic during a “LERU into Action” workshop.

The concept of TRL (Technology Readiness Level), which assesses how close a technology is to real-world application, was among the topics covered, along with Switzerland’s export control lists for regulated goods.

The discussion then took off: “Am I affected if I do fundamental research?”; “Is this not in contradiction with the push for open science?”; “Am I legally liable?”—these were some of the many questions raised during the lively and in-depth exchanges that afternoon.

The Rectorate, represented by Vice-Rector Sébastien Castelltort, was present to hear feedback and suggestions regarding current and future procedures for better managing risks and responsibilities from the researchers’ perspective. According to Sébastien Castelltort, “The Faculty of Science’s initiative is very timely. It is more necessary than ever to raise awareness and understanding of dual-use risks”.

At the close of the workshop, a series of measures were proposed, primarily aimed at helping researchers better navigate interactions with the University of Geneva’s Ethics Research Commission (CUREG).

Another key objective of the workshop was also achieved: raising awareness within the Faculty community of this sensitive issue, which is likely to grow in importance given the increasing complexity of international research relations.

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