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The four faces of microbial forensics.

Jonathan B Tucker¹, Gregory D Koblentz

¹James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, Washington, DC, USA.

Biosecurity and Bioterrorism : Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science

|December 24, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Microbial forensics aids in identifying perpetrators of biological attacks and has broader applications in national security. This article explores its relevance, challenges, and policy recommendations for law enforcement and intelligence.

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Area of Science:

Microbial Forensics
Biological Threat Analysis

Background:

Microbial forensics was crucial in the 2001 anthrax mailing investigations.
Attribution (identifying perpetrators of biological attacks) is a key association.
The field has potential beyond criminal prosecution and military retaliation.

Purpose of the Study:

To describe the relevance of microbial forensics for law enforcement and national security.
To examine obstacles hindering the broader application of microbial forensics.
To provide policy recommendations for advancing the field.

Main Methods:

Review of microbial forensics applications in past investigations.
Analysis of current and potential uses in intelligence, nonproliferation, and verification.
Examination of challenges to wider adoption and implementation.

Main Results:

Microbial forensics is vital for attribution in biological attacks.
Significant potential exists for intelligence, nonproliferation, and verification missions.
Obstacles include technical limitations, data sharing issues, and policy gaps.

Conclusions:

Microbial forensics offers critical capabilities for national security and law enforcement.
Addressing identified obstacles is necessary for broader implementation.
Policy development is recommended to enhance the field's utility.