Osterholm Named to National Biosecurity Advisory Board

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (June  30, 2005)— U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Mike Leavitt announced today that Michael Osterholm, Ph.D., M.P.H., has been appointed to the new National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity (NSABB) of the National Institutes of Health.  Osterholm will begin serving a 3-year term this month.

The NSABB is a critical component of federal initiatives to promote biosecurity in life science research.  The board will provide advice and recommend specific strategies for efficient and effective oversight of federally conducted or supported dual-use biological research taking into consideration both national security concerns and the needs of the research community.

Osterholm, an internationally recognized expert in infectious diseases and public health, is director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), professor in the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health, and associate director of the Department of Homeland Security’s National Center for Food Protection and Defense.  He is also a member of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies of Science.       

Osterholm has been at the forefront of addressing local, national, and international issues related to public health preparedness, pandemic influenza, infectious disease, bioterrorism, and agricultural and food biosecurity.

“I am honored to be a member of this board and to assist in defining the potential risks and benefits of our nation’s research agenda,” Osterholm said.  “Never in our country’s history has it been more important to anticipate the possible intentional or unintentional harm to society that can occur from such research.”

“Dr. Osterholm is widely recognized for his knowledge of the science and the risk associated with biosecurity,” said University President Robert Bruininks. “As both a researcher dedicated to advancing knowledge, and a strong advocate for public health and safety, he is uniquely suited to help this panel succeed in its work.”

The board consists of not more than 24 voting members. Its members work to ensure the advances in biological research are not misused by recommending strategies and developing guidelines for oversight of federally supported research; advising on educational programs for scientists and laboratory workers; guiding the development of a code of conduct for life science researchers; and, developing guidelines for public communication of sensitive life science research.

“We all realize some research that results in new medical treatments, agricultural advances, and biodefense countermeasures could end up in the hands of terrorists who could twist it for their own purposes," Leavitt said. "The NSABB will provide a forum to help educate scientists on biosecurity and a means for the federal government to receive advice on how to advance scientific knowledge without compromising security.”

Osterholm’s term on the board will end on June 14, 2008.

The Academic Health Center is home to the University of Minnesota’s six health professional schools and colleges as well as several health-related centers and institutes. Founded in 1851, the University is one of the oldest and largest land grant institutions in the country. The AHC prepares the new health professionals who improve the health of communities, discover and deliver new treatments and cures, and strengthen the health economy.