Yale Bulletin and Calendar

October 19, 2001

Volume 30, Number 7

Matthew Meselson

Experts to discuss the hostile use of biotechnology

As the recent outbreaks of anthrax attest, the weapons of war have changed.

In "Averting Hostile Exploitation of Biotechnology," three experts will discuss various issues surrounding the use of biological and chemical weapons. Part of the Bioethics and Public Policy Seminar Series sponsored by the Interdisciplinary Bioethics Project, the event will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 11:30-2:15 p.m. in Horchow Hall, 55 Hillhouse Ave.

The main speaker will be Matthew Meselson, the Thomas Dudley Cabot Professor of the Natural Sciences at Harvard University. A world renowned biologist, Meselson has done research on arms control, especially dealing with chemical and biological weapons, and has written widely on the topic. In his talk, he will focus on the modern history of biological weapons; existing constraints against their acquisition and use; current U.S. policy; and the possible role of arms control measures and international criminal law in strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention of 1972.

Yale School of Management Professor Paul Bracken will follow with a talk on international securities and treaties analysis. A specialist in international security and business issues, Bracken has written extensively on international political and military problems. His most recent books are "Fire in the East: The Rise of Asian Military Power and the Second Nuclear Age" and the forthcoming "The Age of Terror: America and the World After September 11th."

The final seminar speaker will be Dr. William C. Summers, a professor in the Departments of Therapeutic Radiology and Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, and a lecturer in history. Summer's research has focused on virology and microbiology, the history of medicine and science, and the relations between science and the humanities. At the seminar, he will present biological observations bearing on microbiology and public health and safety.

At the conclusion of the three presentations at 11:45 a.m., there will be a luncheon followed by an open discussion period.

While the seminar is open to the public free of charge, those planning to attend the luncheon must make reservations ahead of time by contacting Carol Pollard at (203) 432-6188 or carol.pollard@yale.edu.

T H I SW E E K ' SS T O R I E S

Davies Mansion to be renovated, renamed

Yale-developed 'icon' molecule can target tumors for destruction

Curator 'sleuths' have reunited altarpiece panels

Ando describes dream of mixing nature in architecture

News reporters take on the role of teachers during campus visits . . .

'Post-Attack America' is topic of Poynter Lecture

Experts to discuss the hostile use of biotechnology

Yale Rep to present 'primer' by Tennessee Williams

Fair will feature special treasures of Yale libraries

Restoring garden to its 'glorious days' is ongoing effort

Artists will show off their work, studios in city-wide festival

Series explores implications of terrorist attacks

Curators to discuss museum's changing focus on Latin America

New Music New Haven to highlight works by Yale composer

Memorial Service

Campus Notes