Knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of biosecurity

Islamabad : Dr. Muhammad Asif Shaheen, Assistant Professor MLT at the National Skills University, Islamabad, recently participated in a three-day training program organized by Health Security Partners (HSP) USA in collaboration with the Pakistan Biological Safety Association (PBSA). The training was conducted at the Responsible Research Conduct Fellowship Training Institute in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.The comprehensive training covered a range of critical topics, including dual-use research of concern, bioethics, biosecurity, cyber-security, technology transfer and intellectual property security, international frameworks for biosecurity, biorisk assessment and mitigation, academic vetting, and “Know Your Collaborator” (KYC) practices.Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, The Vice-Chancellor of the National Skills University, Islamabad, emphasized the critical importance of such training initiatives in equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of biosecurity. He underscored that such programs play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and responsible conduct of research, particularly when dealing with potential dual-use concerns (DURC). He expressed his strong support for these training programs, recognizing their significance in bolstering the university’s faculty to effectively address contemporary challenges. He congratulated the HSP and PBSA for successful event.Furthermore, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed extended his congratulations to Dr. Muhammad Asif Shaheen for his selection as a Responsible Research Fellow through a highly competitive process. He expressed his hope that Dr. Asif would effectively transfer the acquired skills and knowledge to his fellow colleagues and students, thereby enhancing the overall expertise within the institution.

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