Synthetic Biology

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Synthetic biology is an interdisciplinary field focused on the engineering of novel biological functions, devices, and systems, or the re-engineering of existing biological entities, leveraging principles from molecular biology, genetics, and engineering. It involves rational design and construction using DNA synthesis, gene editing (e.g., CRISPR), and genetic circuits to create programmable biological systems with applications in military and defense ranging from advanced materials, biosensors, bioweapon countermeasures, and novel therapeutics to potential dual-use concerns.

BACKGROUND

The Agency for Defense Development is the South Korean government agency for research and development in defense technology, funded by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). It was established in August 1970 under the banner of the self-reliant national defense promoted by President Park Chung Hee.

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

• Engineered biology
• Bioengineering
• Genetic engineering 2.0
• Designed biology
• Constructive biology

USAGE NOTE

In military and defense, synthetic biology is a critical emerging technology with dual-use implications, explored for developing advanced materials, threat detection systems, medical countermeasures, and potentially novel biological weapons or defenses.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Synthetic Biology.

• Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)

  DARPA funds and manages numerous programs in synthetic biology aimed at national security, including developing novel materials, biosensors, biomanufacturing processes, and genetic engineering for defense applications to enhance warfighter capabilities and counter biological threats.

• Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

  DTRA focuses on countering weapons of mass destruction, utilizing synthetic biology for biodefense applications, including developing rapid diagnostics, medical countermeasures, and enhanced surveillance capabilities against biological agents.

• U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Chemical Biological Center (CBC)

  The CBC conducts research and development for chemical and biological defense, leveraging synthetic biology to create advanced detection systems, protective materials, and therapeutics against chemical and biological threats.

• Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)

  AFRL explores the application of synthetic biology for aerospace and defense needs, including developing bio-inspired materials with enhanced properties, advanced manufacturing techniques, and biosensors for various operational environments.

• Naval Research Laboratory (NRL)

  NRL conducts a broad program of scientific research and advanced technological development for the Navy and Marine Corps, including work in synthetic biology for areas such as biosensing, biofouling solutions, advanced materials, and energy applications.

• Ginkgo Bioworks

  Ginkgo Bioworks is a commercial synthetic biology company that has received significant contracts from U.S. defense agencies (e.g., DARPA, Air Force) for projects related to biosecurity, advanced biomanufacturing of defense-critical materials, and rapid pathogen detection.

• Battelle

  Battelle is a large applied science and technology organization that conducts extensive research for government clients, including the Department of Defense. Their work in synthetic biology includes biodefense, biosurveillance, and developing novel materials and sensors.

• MIT Lincoln Laboratory

  MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a federally funded research and development center that applies advanced technology to problems of national security. They conduct research in biological engineering and synthetic biology for applications like pathogen detection, diagnostics, and novel material development.