Strengthening a Safe and Secure Nucleic Acid Synthesis Ecosystem

Publication Date: January 2025

This report presents findings, best practices, and recommendations for quality, measurable nucleic acid synthesis screening and was developed by the Engineering Biology Research Consortium (EBRC) in cooperation with the National Institute of Standards and Technology. During 2024, EBRC brought 200 stakeholders together across government, academia, industry, and civil society in a series of workshops to consider key aspects of nucleic acid synthesis screening, including Sequence of Concern database development and conformity assessment. This report provides best practices for a range of stakeholders and offers recommendations to support the adoption of screening practices and improve screening outcomes. Cross-sector collaboration will continue to be necessary to tackle screening challenges and effectively implement U.S. policy. Further, strong international partnerships will be necessary to advance quality screening around the globe (learn more).