As in previous years, the Biosecurity Knowledge Day attracted many enthusiastic participants this year. The Knowledge Day focused a lot on Artificial Intelligence. In addition, themes such as E-learning, diagnostics and the WHO self-evaluation were discussed and there was ample opportunity for networking. We look back on a successful day.
After a welcome from our chairman and an update on current affairs surrounding biosecurity, it was the turn of our international guest speaker, Piers Millet. With his presentation, Piers took the audience into the world of biosecurity aspects of artificial intelligence and DNA synthesis. Knowing which biological techniques and technologies the user has at his disposal can reduce biosecurity risks of unintentional and intentional misuse. Ensuring biosecurity is not a luxury but a necessity in an era in which science and technologies develop faster than frameworks and legislation. By working together and creating awareness, people can keep each other sharp.
The plenary part continued with three short presentations. Annemarie Bouma (Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature) discussed the European Animal Health Regulation. Jérome Larosch (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) explained the how, who and why of the Dutch commitment to the BTWC. And finally, Jorrit Broertjes (Amsterdam University Medical Center) introduced participants to the epidemiology of pathogens that are listed as potential agents for bioterrorism. Would you like more details about the morning program? The slides are online.
In the afternoon, participants split up to participate in the various sessions. There was a choice of Biosecurity e-learning in education, Biosecurity escape room & dual-use conversation structure, Diagnostics and biosecurity and Does the Netherlands meet the WHO requirements for Biosafety & Biosecurity? Following the morning program, it was also possible to discuss the DNA sequence screening mechanism under the guidance of Piers.
During the Knowledge Day, participants were introduced to two new products: the RFID card and cards that you can use to alert colleagues to lock their computers when they leave their workplace. Both products contribute to increasing biosecurity awareness.
The day was traditionally concluded with a networking drink.
Save the date – November 6, 2025
The date for the Biosecurity Knowledge Day in 2025 has already been set, but the program is still completely open! The evaluation shows that there is a need for topics such as awareness, safe-by-design and collaboration with response organizations. We will take that input into account, but we also like to keep room for new developments and would like to hear what participants need. So if you have suggestions for filling in next year's program, or if you want to contribute something: let us know! [ignore]biosecurity@rivm.nl[/ignore].