Transparent Journal Review of Dual Use Research of Concern

One of the key points of agreement emerging from the contentious scientific and public debate about oversight of dual use research of concern (DURC) in the biological sciences is the importance of transparency for promoting public trust and accountability. Transparency is one of the pillars of President Trump's executive order "Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research" and the National Institutes of Health's new policy concerning the operation of institutional biosafety committees. Although previous federal policies have also emphasized transparency, it has become abundantly clear to many commentators, biosafety activists, and government leaders that these policies did not go far enough, and that enhancing transparency is essential for ensuring ethical oversight of DURC. In this commentary, I advocate for transparency with respect to journal review of DURC research.