This module provides a focused exploration of ethical considerations in bioinspired research and communication, co-taught by Dr. Sarah Reckess, JD. You’ll engage with real-world ethical dilemmas through case studies, debates, and role-playing exercises, developing the moral reasoning skills necessary to navigate complex ethical terrain in interdisciplinary research.
Assistant Professor of Bioethics, Upstate Medical University
“The complexity and rapid advances of research, as well as numerous instances of deception, conflicts of interest, and inappropriate practices, suggest that merely having good intentions is not always sufficient. This module will help you develop the moral reasoning skills necessary to navigate ethical challenges in bioinspired research.”
Dr. Reckess brings expertise in biomedical ethics with a focus on regulatory frameworks and professional norms of scientific conduct. Her approach emphasizes practical application of ethical principles to real research scenarios.
“Three basic ethical principles—respect for persons, beneficence, and justice—form the foundation for ethical research involving human subjects.” While originally focused on biomedical research, these principles provide a valuable framework for all research involving living systems.
NSF’s comprehensive guidelines covering research ethics across all scientific disciplines, with specific sections relevant to interdisciplinary and bioinspired research.
“Research that can be reasonably anticipated to provide knowledge, products, or technologies that could be misapplied to pose a significant threat.” Official framework for identifying and managing DURC in bioinspired systems, with specific guidance for synthetic biology and communication technologies.
Practical assessment of dual-use risks in biological research with applications to bioinspired communication systems. Includes case studies on technology transfer and knowledge security.
Expert panel discussing real-world case studies where bioinspired research has both beneficial applications and potential security implications, featuring Dr. Claire Fraser-Liggett (NSABB).
“Informed consent processes often fail to convey data risks in bio-integrated technologies.” Provides an ethical framework for communication technologies interfacing with biological systems, addressing privacy gaps and regulatory challenges.
“Examines moral tensions in biomimetic design: from nature commodification to responsible innovation pathways.” Outlines ethical considerations spanning concept development to commercialization. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Proposes moving beyond biological exploitation to ethical emulation frameworks in bioinspired R&D.
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Concise overview of critical ethical issues in synthetic biology, including biosecurity, environmental impact, and justice concerns. Highlights how bioinspired design choices carry inherent ethical dimensions.
“Lawful, ethical, and robust AI systems must respect fundamental rights while enabling innovation.” Essential framework for AI-driven bioinspired communication applications.
This module provides practical experience in navigating complex ethical challenges in bioinspired research. Through guided analysis and discussion, students will develop essential skills in:
» Detailed case studies, role-playing scenarios, and assignment instructions are available on the course Blackboard site.