Many scientific and policy issues currently confront biotechnology research and development. Some of these issues include the introduction of genetically engineered organisms into the environment, federal and state oversight of biotechnology research, food adulteration by R-DNA techniques, biotechnology education and international outreach programs, and the patenting of biotechnology products and processes. It is proposed that a Committee on Biotechnology be established to advise the Board on Basic Biology (BBB) on these issues and to provide a forum to mediate the multidirectional flow of information and technology transfer among industry, academe, and the public. Under the direction of the BBB, the proposed committee will initiate relevant workshops, symposia, and studies. The committee's activities will provide valuable information and guidance to government agencies, research scientists, and the public. In addition, the committee would serve as the U.S. National Committee for COBIOTECH, which is a new international scientific committee on biotechnology of the International Council of Scientific Unions. It is proposed that the Committee on Biotechnology consist of approximately seven members selected for the most part from sources such as the BBB, the Commission on Life Sciences (CLS), and the U.S. representatives on the COBIOTECH steering group.
