BioNext

This session from DARPA’s 60th anniversary symposium, D60, highlights the role of DARPA’s Biological Technologies Office in defending the homeland. BTO Director Dr. Justin Sanchez presents a new biosecurity framework to address the nation’s need for novel capabilities to counter bioterrorism, to deploy innovative biological countermeasures for warfighter protection, and to accelerate force readiness. In addition, Dr. Sanchez provides examples of BTO efforts within the framework, including restoration of nervous system function and achieving cognitive overmatch. Former Secretary of the Navy Dr. Richard Danzig draws some lessons from history to inform potential solutions for future biological security concerns. Providing a law enforcement perspective, FBI Supervisory Special Agent Ed You describes the current bio-threat landscape. Frontline Ebola physician Dr. Nahid Bhadelia presents her firsthand experience responding to the recent major outbreak in West Africa. Navy Seal Neil Hermansen delivers insights into the challenges facing the nation’s special operation forces. Moderator & Keynote Dr. Justin Sanchez – DARPA, BTO Panelists Dr. Nahid Bhadelia – National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University School of Medicine Dr. Richard Danzig – Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory CWO Neil Hermansen, USN – DARPA, DIRO Mr. Edward You – Federal Bureau of Investigation D60 took place Sept. 5-7, 2018, at Gaylord National Harbor, Oxon Hill, Maryland.