The Pandora Report

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! This issue highlights the evolving biological threat landscape – from agroterrorism and toxin risks to AI-enabled biotechnology – alongside efforts to reinforce preparedness, governance, and global health security. 

GMU Biodefense Adjunct Dr. Ashley Grant Testifies Before Congress on Agroterrorism

Dr. Ashley Grant, Senior Health Security and Biodefense Advisor, Office of Health Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and adjunct professor in the George Mason University’s Biodefense Graduate Program, testified before Congress on February 11 as part of the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology hearing on, “Surveying the Threat of Agroterrorism, Part II: Assessing Federal Government Efforts.”  

In her testimony, Dr. Grant outlined DHS Office of Health Security’s (OHS) coordinated approach to defend the nation’s food, agriculture, and veterinary systems against terrorism and other high-consequence threats, whether intentional or naturally occurring. She underscored the growing risks posed by agroterrorism and other biological threats, emphasizing that advances in biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI), while beneficial, have also lowered barriers for malicious actors seeking to disrupt crops, livestock, and food production systems. “Food security is national security,” she noted. 

Dr. Grant concluded by reaffirming DHS’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s food and agriculture systems through collaboration, driving innovation, and sustained readiness of our homeland to meet the challenges ahead.  

For more information on the hearing, visit here. 

A Bipartisan Plan for Strengthening Defenses Against Biological Threats 

The CSIS Bipartisan Alliance for Global Health Security Working Group on Biodefense has released a new report, Protecting Americans from Biological Threats, that provides a prioritized set of practical, near-term recommendations for the U.S. government to modernize biosurveillance, ensure biosafety and biosecurity, reverse the decline of the biodefense enterprise, and strengthen response and recovery. These recommendations were developed through intensive deliberations with working group members over the past four months and endorsed by a bipartisan group of over 40 expert signatories. Dr. Gregory Koblentz, Director of the Biodefense Graduate Program, was a member of the working group and one of the signatories to the final report. Sophia Hirshfield, MS Biodefense ’23, a research associate at the Center for Global Health at CSIS, was one of the report’s co-authors. 

Further Reading: 

• “Strengthening Preparedness Against Novel Biological Threat Agents Enabled Through Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies,”  National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.  
• “Defensive acceleration: the strategic pivot needed for UK biological resilience,” The Centre for Long-Term Resilience. 
• “Informing the European Biotech Act and Inclusions of our Recommendations,” The Centre for Long-Term Resilience 

Norway’s Focus 2026 Warns of Expanding Biological Weapons Risks Amid AI Advances  

Norway’s Focus 2026, an annual report published by the Norwegian Intelligence Service, is a threat and risk assessment of current security challenges. The report notes that although Russia and China are both signatories to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), both countries retain considerable capacity to produce biological and chemical agents due to historical expertise, dual-use research, and extensive biotechnology investments. Russia, for instance, continues using less-lethal agents such as teargas and chloropicrin in Ukraine. Meanwhile, although China signed the BWC in 1984, Chinese research institutions affiliated with the armed forces have been working to identify and test highly toxic substances for years. The report also highlights how advances in biotechnology, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data could facilitate the design of novel toxic substances and microorganisms with specific characteristics, posing evolving risks to security systems involving both humans and food production.  

Further Reading: 

• ‘Measuring Biological Capabilities and Risks of AI Agents: Generating and Interpreting Evidence from Agentic Evaluations,” Patricia Paskov, Jeffrey Lee, Kyle Brady, and Alyssa Worland, RAND 
• “Open-source AI program can answer science questions better than humans,” Jeffrey Brainard, Science 
• “mRNA Technology as a National Security Asset,” Council on Strategic Risks Blog
• “Sentinel 2025 Annual Letter,” Sentinel Bio 

Bird Flu Threatens Antarctic Wildlife as Researchers Explore Vaccine Solutions 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

Recent research has shed new light on the growing threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) bird flu to wildlife in some of the world’s most remote ecosystems, while also pointing toward promising new tools for conservation. 

A study published in Scientific Reports, led by Erasmus MC and UC Davis, confirmed the first documented wildlife die-off from H5N1 avian influenza on the Antarctic continent. More than 50 south polar skuas, which are large, ecologically important seabirds related to gulls, were found to have died from the virus during the summers of 2023 and 2024. Scientists previously detected the virus in dead birds in Antarctica, but HPAI was not confirmed as the cause of the deaths. This research showed through a combination of virological, bacteriological, and pathological analyses that H5N1 HPAI caused multi-organ failure and death in skuas, but not in other Antarctic species found deceased around the same time. Researchers noted the virus caused severe neurological symptoms in affected birds and warned that skuas’ role as scavengers could position them to spread the disease further across the continent. The last Antarctic skua census was conducted in the 1980s and counted only around 800 breeding pairs. The loss of more than 50 birds to H5N1 could represent a significant blow to the population, though the true scale remains unclear without updated population data. Researchers warn that without increased monitoring efforts in Antarctica, the full extent of the virus’s impact on these and other vulnerable species may go undetected.  

On a more encouraging note, a study published recently in Nature Communications demonstrated that vaccination against H5 avian influenza can produce a strong and lasting immune response in wild king penguins, offering a potential tool for wildlife conservation.  

King penguins, which breed in dense colonies across sub-Antarctic islands and raise their chicks over an extended period, were identified as an ideal candidate species for a vaccination trial in a natural setting. In the study, thirty penguin chicks received a self-amplifying mRNA vaccine targeting the H5 hemagglutinin protein, the component of the virus responsible for entering host cells, while twenty unvaccinated chicks served as controls. Researchers monitored the birds for 250 days and found that vaccinated chicks maintained high levels of neutralizing antibodies all the way through to fledging, with no adverse effects observed. Importantly, testing confirmed that none of the birds had been naturally exposed to the virus during the trial period, meaning the immune response was driven entirely by the vaccine itself. 

The research team also examined the cellular mechanisms behind the immune response, identifying significant activity in memory B cells and T cells, the components of the immune system responsible for recognizing and rapidly responding to future infections. This suggests the vaccine does not offer merely short-term protection but may prime the immune system for a durable, long-term defense. Historically, there has been little scientific data published on the ability of non-domesticated birds to sustain vaccine-induced immunity without repeated natural exposure to a virus. These findings contribute significantly to our understanding of host immunity in Antarctic avifauna and may be adaptable to other wild and domestic species globally. 

Together, these developments emphasize the expanding ecological footprint of avian influenza and the growing importance of coordinated surveillance, research, and prevention efforts to combat the ongoing HPAI panzootic. 

Further Reading:  

• “Tackling avian influenza with automated detection for an early warning system,” Western Ecological Research Center (WERC), United States Geological Survey (USGS) 
• “More avian flu outbreaks in Pennsylvania, Colorado,” Stephanie Soucheray, CIDRAP 
• “Bird flu kills 10th dolphin in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon,” Jim Waymer, Florida Today 

Institute for Science and International Security Hosts Two-Day Course on Nuclear Non-Proliferation at George Mason University! 

From ISIS: “The Institute for Science and International Security, a non-partisan NGO based in Washington D.C., focused on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, is bringing its free technical course on nuclear weapons and their proliferation to the GMU. David Albright and Sarah Burkhard will provide a solid foundation of the scientific and technical aspects of nuclear weapons, including the key facets of developing nuclear weapons, including fissile material production – uranium enrichment, plutonium production and separation – and nuclear weaponization and delivery. It will include how we have learned about secret nuclear weapons programs in Iran, Pakistan, North Korea, South Africa, and other countries.  

The course will be taught in two half-day sessions, March 31^st and April 6^th, at George Mason University, Van Metre Hall, Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA. Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance. The course is free, but registration is required by sending an email with your full name and affiliation to bitaraf@isis-online.org.” 

Eighth Session of the BWC Working Group Convenes in Geneva 

The Eighth Session of the Working Group (WG) on the strengthening of the 1972 Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC/BTWC) is scheduled to convene in Geneva from 9 to 13 February 2026. Proceedings for public meetings will be video-streamed via UN WebTV and audio-streamed via Listen Live. Official documents and other materials, including details of side events, are being posted by the BWC Implementation Support Unit (ISU) to the official web page of the Eighth Session, which can be found here. A consolidated collection of Richard Guthrie’s reporting on the BWC meetings is available online: https://www.cbw-events.org.uk/bwc-rep.html 

In Other News 

Global Health Governance and US WHO Relations 

• “China criticizes U.S. for WHO pullout, accusing it of sidestepping international law,” Helen Branswell, StatNews 
• “New York City Partners with W.H.O. as U.S. Withdraws From Global Effort,” Joseph Goldstein, NYTimes 
• “Pandemic security needs national leadership,” Maria D. Van Kerkhove and Chikwe Ihekweazu, Science 
• “Biodefense Blind Spot: Why Washington Confuses Pandemics with Bioweapons,” Junaid Nabi, War on the Rocks 
• “One Year Post-USAID, Global Health Funding Stuck in Limbo,” Allison Krugman, Think Global Health 
• “The Great Aid Recession: 2025’s Humanitarian Crash in Nine Charts,” Sam Vigersky, CFR 
• “DHS warns of increasing trend in domestic partner poisonings,” Aaron Katersky and Josh Margolin, ABC News 

US Biodefense and Domestic Preparedness 

• “How Donald Trump Can Fix US Biodefense,” Robert C. O’Brien, The National Interest 
• “Respiratory PPE as Day-Zero Defense Against Biothreats,” Eva Siegmann, Council on Strategic Risks 
• “Strengthening biosecurity and biosafety oversight: CEPI publishes its first Biosecurity Policy,” CEPI 
• “Biosafety and Biosecurity: Comparing the U.S. and Selected G20 Members,” GAO 

Public Health Infrastructure and Trust 

• “Poll: Trust and Confidence in the CDC Remain at Low Point After Changes to Recommended Childhood Vaccines; More Say the Changes Will Hurt than Help Children’s Health,” KFF 
• “A ‘shadow CDC’ is scrambling to fill gaps in public health data,” Lauren J. Young, Edited by Tanya Lewis, Scientific American 
• “Newly revealed emails undermine RFK Jr testimony about 2019 Samoa trip ahead of measles outbreak,” Michelle R Smith and Ali Swenson, The Guardian 
• “New Poll: 9 in 10 Americans Say Policymakers Must Protect Vaccine Access,” Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease 
• “4 times as many measles cases in a few weeks than US typically averages in a whole year: CDC,” Youri Benadjaoud, ABC News 

Science Workforce & Research Funding 

• “U.S. government has lost more than 10,000 STEM Ph.D.s since Trump took office,” Monica Hersher, Jeffrey Mervis 
• “Trump tried to gut science research funding. Courts and Congress have rebuffed him,” Evan Bush, NBC News 

NEW: Atlantic Council’s Pick Your Poison: The Enduring Threat of Biological Toxins 

GMU’s Biodefense Director Gregory Koblentz will serve as a panelist at the Atlantic Council’s Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense latest meeting, mapping the threat picture of biological toxins and its implications for future biological attacks. He will be speaking on the spectrum of toxin threats, including foodborne exposure, state-sponsored assassination, terrorism, synthetic production, and warfare. This meeting of the Commission will be focused on ease of availability and control of ricin, botulinum, and other toxins, making them attractive weapons for use by U.S. adversaries, and the unique scientific challenges inherent in detecting, characterizing, and attributing toxin attacks. The discussions will also touch upon the vulnerability of food and agricultural systems to toxin threats and the measures required to secure the supply chain from intentional adulteration.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 26, at 10:00 AM ET. Learn more and register here. 

NEW: World Changing Innovations in Science & Technology Summit 

From the National Institute for Defense Health Cooperation (NIDHC): “The National Institute for Defense Health Cooperation (NIDHC), a component of the Uniformed Services University that supports the Department of War and other federal partners, will host the World Changing Innovations in Science and Technology Summit. The S&T Summit is organized into four modules, focused on key S&T domains: biotechnology, advanced computing, space technology, and nuclear energy. Our Nation’s leading subject matter experts from government, academia, industry, and federally funded laboratories will present on cutting-edge developments and emerging risks from a medical and public health perspective.  

Attendees are welcomed from Federal, state, and local governments, industry, academia, and other non-governmental organizations to explore emerging innovations in science and technology, assess their potential threats and opportunities.  

This event will take place from March 9-20, in Bethesda, Maryland. Learn more and register here.  

The 100 Days Mission: Defending Against Pandemic and Biological Risks in a Fragmented World  

From Foreign Policy: “The 100 Days Mission—led by CEPI and endorsed by G7 and G20 leaders—is establishing tools and capabilities to ensure that safe and effective vaccines can be developed within 100 days of a new viral threat. What will it take to embed these capabilities into national security strategies, defense planning, and sustained financing—before the next crisis tests the system? Held against the backdrop of the 2026 Munich Security Conference, Foreign Policy and CEPI will host an official side event to examine how cross-sector partnerships, shared planning, and coordinated financing can close preparedness gaps and strengthen collective defenses against future biological threats.”  

This event will be held in-person in Munich, Germany, on February 14 from 9:00 – 10:30 am CET. Learn more and register here. 

EBSA – Cyberbiosecurity: A Unique Marriage of Biosecurity and Information Systems 

From EBSA: “Increasing reliance on the internet and technology in research and biomedical laboratories has opened these organizations up to increased focus for cyberattacks. These attacks may be perpetrated by external actors or individuals internal to the organization (purposefully or accidentally) and can take advantage of a lack of knowledge by research staff about phishing, access control best practices, and network security especially of research instrumentation, automated laboratory equipment, and building automation and control systems that may be connected to the internet/cloud. This talk will introduce the types of cyberthreats that have been commonly perpetrated against research and biomedical organizations. We will discuss existing guidance documents from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that address critical infrastructure cybersecurity and information systems security controls and how they can be applied to all biomedical research organizations (BSL-1 through BSL-4). Finally, we will explain some of the best practices described in these documents relating to identity management and access control, awareness and training, and data security to give biorisk management and laboratory personnel a better working understanding of cyberbiosecurity.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 19 from 14:00 – 16:00 CET. Learn more and register here. 

Public Health on the Pitch: Radiation Readiness for the FIFA World Cup 

From ASTHO: “Join ASTHO for a webinar focused on public health preparedness and response related to the upcoming FIFA World Cup. This session will highlight response operations to a radiological incident during a mass gathering. The discussion will be led by Dr. Ziad Kazzi, an emergency physician and medical toxicologist with internationally recognized expertise in poisoning and radiation toxicology. 

Dr. Kazzi will address key response considerations from a health department and public health lens, including triage, contamination management, radiation safety roles and detection assets, community reception centers, medical countermeasures, and more. There will be time for a Q&A session to address questions from attendees.” 

This event will take place virtually on February 24 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

 Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum 

From Johns Hopkins: “Join us in person for the Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum! This Forum convenes state and local public health officials, federal agency representatives, Congressional staff, veterinarians, diagnosticians, and leading scientific researchers to address the urgent challenges posed by H5N1 and future influenza threats. H5N1 already poses a major threat to the nation’s livestock and poultry industries. If it were to acquire the ability to spread from person to person, there would be increased challenges for detection, containment, and response. This Forum will focus on actionable, science-based recommendations and foster cross-sectoral collaboration to strengthen preparedness and response capacity across the One Health spectrum.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, March 3 from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on March 4-5, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

CBRNe Convergence Canada 2026

CBRNe World is hosting its fourth CBRNe Convergence Canada event this year in Toronto! This event will focus on a range of topical issues, including responding to potential CBRN incidents in the High North, response to terrorist attacks at major sporting events, and presentations on Canadian response capabilities, and the largest CBRN/Hazmat exhibition in Canada.

This event will take place April 13-15 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Toronto Downtown. Learn more here, and stay tuned for forthcoming information about CBRNe Convergence this November in Knoxville, TN!

International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France, from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

NEW: 9th World One Health Congress – Calls for Abstracts 

From Global One Health Community: “The One Health Congress invites abstracts, session concept notes, and workshop proposals addressing innovative research, policy, and practice across human-animal-plant-environment interfaces. Submissions are welcomed under the following themes: 1) Climate change, environment, and ecosystems health; 2) Biodiversity, wildlife, and pathogen interfaces; 3) Food systems, agriculture, and plant health; 4) Pathogens, microbiome, and intervention strategies; 5) Antimicrobial resistance (AMR); 6) Data, technology and innovative analytics; 7) Knowledge, education and communities; 8) Governance, policy and legal frameworks, 9) One Health implementation and financing; 10) Preparedness, resilience and economic evaluation; 11) Biosecurity, biosafety and global health security; 12) The critical role of the private sector in One Health policy.  

Learn more and submit here.  

NEW: Far-UVC Program Officer at Blueprint Biosecurity – Job Opening  

From Blueprint Biosecurity: “Blueprint Biosecurity is seeking a full-time Far-UVC Program Officer to be a driving force behind our far-UVC program. As Far-UVC Program Officer, you will help address these research gaps to transform early-stage potential into deployable protection that could save lives during the next pandemic. Reporting directly to the Built Environment Program Director, this role will shape and execute our far-UVC strategy, with a particular emphasis on directing research and funding to advance far-UVC science and technology, and communicating our work to partners, experts, and the general public.” 

The deadline to submit applications is February 20. Learn more and submit your application here. 

NEW: The Youth for Biosecurity Initiative 2026 – Applications Open! 

 From the United Nations: “The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) in Geneva is delighted to launch a call for applications to the Fourth Edition of the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship.  

Since its establishment in 2019, the programme has engaged over 140 young scientists through an innovative and engaging training course. 20 competitively selected young scientists from the Global South will take part in a series of interactive webinars prior to an in-person visit during the meeting of the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention in Geneva in August 2026.   

Please note all successful applicants will be responsible for attaining any necessary travel documents to attend the in-person visit in Switzerland, including visas. Travel tickets in economy class and a daily subsistence allowance will be provided to successful applicants for the official dates of the trip in line with UN rules and regulations. 

The deadline for applications is March 5. Learn more and apply here. 

One Health Commission Board of Directors – Call for Applications 

From OHC: “The One Health Commission (OHC) is pleased to announce an open call for board members to join our governing body. As we implement our new constitution and bylaws, we are seeking distinguished experts who embody collaborative, multi- and transdisciplinary approaches for addressing shared health challenges across human, animal, environmental, and plant health domains.” 

The deadline to submit applications is February 15. Learn more and submit your application here. 

OPCW Senior Science Policy Officer (AI, Data Sciences and Knowledge Management) (P-4) – Job Opening 

From OPCW: “The Office of Strategy and Policy (OSP) develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and the Secretariat’s management, particularly relating to cross-cutting issues such as incidents of chemical weapons use, non-routine missions, chemical security, engagement with international organisations and chemical industry, education and outreach, counter-terrorism, and science and technology. This role in OSP ensures that the Science Policy Adviser is provided with expert advice on advancements in science and technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital sciences, through continuous monitoring and provision of specialised advice on applicability to the work of the OPCW. The individual will also help lead, coordinate, and integrate AI and data science-driven approaches and solutions to and in the work of the Secretariat. This role will also take the lead on the Organisation’s knowledge management activities, with a focus on the development and implementation of knowledge management systems and the development and application of digital tools to knowledge management processes.” 

The deadline to apply is February 18. Learn more and submit your application here. 

ICGEB Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity  

From the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: “With the co-funding of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation through the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), BWC ISU, the ICGEB offers early-career scientists from OECD/DAC countries a fellowship at ICGEB laboratories in Italy, India, South Africa and at the ICGEB Regional Research Centre in China, to receive hands on training in life sciences and detection and response to biological threats.” 

The closing date for applications is March 31, 23:59 CET. Learn more and apply here. 

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! This issue highlights new bipartisan policy recommendations for strengthening defenses against biological threats, rising measles and avian influenza outbreaks, politicized vaccine changes in the U.S. and abroad, and emerging risks at the intersection of science and security.

Thinking about Getting a Master’s in Biodefense?  

GMU’s Schar School of Policy and Government has an upcoming recruitment event: 

• Virtual MS of Biodefense on Wednesday, February 11 (noon to 1:00 pm ET) 

A Bipartisan Plan for Strengthening Defenses Against Biological Threats 

The CSIS Bipartisan Alliance for Global Health Security Working Group on Biodefense has released a new report, Protecting Americans from Biological Threats, that provides a prioritized set of practical, near-term recommendations for the U.S. government to modernize biosurveillance, ensure biosafety and biosecurity, reverse the decline of the biodefense enterprise, and strengthen response and recovery. These recommendations were developed through intensive deliberations with working group members over the past four months and endorsed by a bipartisan group of over 40 expert signatories. Dr. Gregory Koblentz, Director of the Biodefense Graduate Program, was a member of the working group and one of the signatories to the final report. Sophia Hirshfield, MS Biodefense ’23, a research associate at the Center for Global Health at CSIS, was one of the report’s co-authors. 

When Politics Overrides Public Health: Implications for Vaccine Access and Trust 

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

Recent reports highlight how declining public trust in vaccines and politicized health policies are contributing to serious public health risks in the U.S. and abroad. South Carolina is currently experiencing the largest measles outbreak since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000, following the widespread success of the highly effective 2-dose MMR vaccination program that once ended sustained transmission. With 789 reported cases and at least 18 adults and children hospitalized, this outbreak has now surpassed a similar surge in West Texas last year and reflects a broader national pattern of declining vaccination rates and growing vaccine hesitancy.  

At the federal level, vaccine policy has become increasingly entangled with political motivations. The Trump administration has pressured Gavi, the global vaccine alliance, to phase out vaccines containing thimerosal, a preservative used in vaccines that has long been proven safe, in order to obtain continued funding. Despite extensive scientific evidence rejecting links between thimerosal and autism, this decision reflects persistent and damaging anti-vaccine rhetoric currently being spread across the U.S. political environment. Multi-dose vaccines for diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough, rely on thimerosal to prevent contamination and maintain vaccine effectiveness, particularly in low-income and humanitarian settings. These recent actions from HHS mark yet another attempt by the U.S. government to undermine public confidence in global immunization programs and limit access to lifesaving vaccines worldwide.  

Internationally, U.S. health diplomacy is also facing growing resistance. As part of the America First Global Health Strategy, the administration has negotiated approximately $11 billion in bilateral aid agreements with more than 15 African countries, tying health funding to political, commercial, and regulatory conditions. Governments and civil society groups in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, amongst others, have raised concerns about religious bias, data privacy, regulatory sovereignty, and excessive U.S. influence over domestic health systems. Critics argue that these agreements weaken national autonomy and multilateral cooperation, while prioritizing U.S. commercial interests. Taken together, these developments illustrate how politicized health governance, both domestically and internationally, is reshaping vaccine access, public trust, and global health security.  

Further Reading:  

• “UI researcher loses grant funding amid NIH shakeup,” Avery Paterson, The Daily Illini 
• “WHO chief calls 2025 a year of ‘stark contrasts’ as landmark health deals met funding cuts,” Beyza Binnur Donmez, AA 
• “Democrats just handed RFK Jr. billions more than he asked for. It was a big risk,” Kelly Hooper 

Colorado Declares Disaster After Bird Flu Hits Major Poultry Farm 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

Colorado confirmed its first commercial poultry outbreak of avian influenza since mid-2024 following detection at a large egg-laying facility in Weld County. Colorado State University laboratories initially detected the virus and it was subsequently confirmed by USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory. The outbreak prompted a verbal disaster declaration from the governor’s office, with state officials emphasizing that the declaration allows agencies to better coordinate mitigation, response, and recovery efforts.  

The affected Colorado facility houses approximately 1.33 million chickens, many of which will be culled to prevent the virus from spreading to other farms or wild bird populations. Egg industry representatives have indicated it is too early to determine whether the outbreak will affect consumer prices.  

USDA Awards $2.5M for Feedable Avian Flu Vaccine Development 

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) continues to support funding for “innovative projects” aimed at combating HPAI. The “HPAI Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge”, first launched in early 2025, provides $100 million in investments for research into prevention, transmission, biosecurity, and vaccine development related to bird flu. Although no avian influenza vaccine has yet been authorized for widespread poultry use in the United States, the initiative reflects growing concern over the potential economic and biosecurity impacts of recurring outbreaks. This week, Binghamton University in New York announced a $2.5 million award from the fund to develop a yeast-based, feedable vaccine for poultry. The approach aims to be more affordable, shelf-stable, and easier to distribute than existing vaccine technologies, potentially strengthening outbreak prevention efforts in the future. 

Iceland Detects H5N1 in Wild Birds 

Icelandic authorities confirmed detection of H5N1 avian influenza in wild birds in the capital area, marking the country’s first identification of this strain since 2023. Officials believe the virus may have arrived via migratory birds, as both the United States and Europe battle ongoing outbreaks. “At this stage of the case, little is known about the origin of the infection, but it can be assumed that it recently arrived in the country with migratory birds or that it arrived last fall and remained undetected until now. Genetic studies of the virus will be carried out and may shed light on whether it is of European origin or from North America,” Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) said in a public statement. Poultry farmers and bird owners have been advised to strengthen biosecurity measures, while the public is encouraged to report sick or dead birds. 

Further Reading:  

• “Poland hit by worst bird flu outbreak in 2 years,” Vladislav Vorotnikov, Poultry World 
• “H5N1 bird flu outbreak enters fourth year in U.S.,” Patrick Cooley, Farm and Dairy 
• “Columbia to Test New Strategy for Curbing Bird Flu on Poultry Farms,” Columbia University 
• “South Korea imports eggs to restore avian flu-hit supply,” Jackie Linden, WATTPoultry 

In Other News 

AI, Automation and Engineering Biology 

• “Bridging the Digital to Physical Divide: Evaluating LLM Agents on Benchtop DNA Acquisition,”  Kyle Brady, Jeffrey Lee, Dawid Maciorowski, Alyssa Worland, Jordan Despanie, Bria Persaud, Barbara Del Castello, Henry Alexander Bradley, Grant Ellison, Charles Teague, et al., RAND 
• “Revolution or Evolution? How AI is Reshaping the WMD Proliferation Landscape,” Natasha Bajema, Mara Zarka, and Minh Ly, Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)  
• “A survey into the use of AI in Engineering Biology,” Department for Science, Innovation and Technology 
• “What the Rise of AI Scientists May Mean for Human Research,” Claudia Lopez Lloreda, Undark  

Biosecurity, Dual-Use and Laboratory Risks  

• “1 person is arrested after a suspected biolab is found at Las Vegas home,” AP News 
• “LVMPD and FBI Provide Update on Joint Investigation,” Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department  
• “1,000 samples sent for testing after possible biological lab found inside Las Vegas home: FBI,” Aaron Katersky, Sasha Pezenik, Alex Stone, Jack Date and Josh Margolin, ABC News 
• “Gain-of-function virology as dual-use research of concern: Variations of securitization in the United States,” Alexander Kelle and Malcolm Danda, Politics Life Science 
• “Foreign entities using ‘academic cooperation’ as cover to illicitly obtain China’s biological samples: Ministry of State Security,” Global Times 
• “Creating Enforceable Biosecurity Standards for Nucleic Acid Providers,” Jacob Beal and Tessa Alexanian, Wiley 
• “Business owners tied to home bio lab probe face federal case for test kit scheme,” Spencer Levering, Las Vegas Review-Journal 
• “Cotton, Klobuchar Introduce Bill to Establish Federal Biotech Security Framework,” Tom Cotton 
• “Toxic Lies: Why Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Disinformation Matters,” Katy Carroll, Mariana Diaz-Garcia, and Francesco Marelli, Skeptical Inquirer 
• “Pressure mounts to probe alleged SAF chemical attacks,” The Sudan Times 

Pandemic Preparedness, Public Health and Surveillance  

• “The Secret Weapon in Canada’s Sewers,” Eric Arts, Maclean’s 
• “The Next Crisis Won’t Wait: Why Pandemic Preparedness Is a Business Imperative,” Nathan Paxton and Rachel Staley Grant, NTI  
• “Defending Against the Next Bioweapon: the mRNA Imperative,” Jeff Coller, War on the Rocks 
• “NYC Health + Hospitals Launches Special Pathogens Biopreparedness Map to Monitor and Prepare for Outbreaks,” NYC Health and Hospitals 
• “Return of the pox: How smallpox eradication cleared the way for new threats,” Maeva Cullinan, The Telegraph 

Poisoned Weapons: Toxic Ammunition (American Weapons of Mass Destruction)

Reid Kirby’s new book, Toxic Ammunition is the second installment of a four-part exploration into America’s poisoned weapons. This book is a deep dive into the fascinating history of aromatic carbamates, a class of chemical compounds weaponized during World War II. This book explores their origins, beginning with the discovery of physostigmine in West Africa, which advanced the understanding of neurotransmission, and transitions into their transformation into nerve agents by global powers. The narrative follows the secretive research of the United States’ Office of Scientific Research and Development (OSRD), uncovering their pursuit of toxic ammunition, the mysterious Atoll Problem, and the development of specialized poisoned bullets and shot. With detailed analysis of scientific breakthroughs, logistical challenges, and military applications, this work presents a gripping account of how science intersected with warfare. By blending military history, chemistry, and ethical considerations, this book offers a view of the enduring impact of chemical weapons technologies on modern warfare and society. Perfect for history and science enthusiasts alike.  

This book is available in hard copy and eBook formats here. 

NEW: Strengthening and Modernizing Biosafety Oversight: Region 5 Listening Session 

From the NIH: The NIH is hosting a virtual listening session that brings together federal science policy leadership and biosafety professionals to solicit stakeholder input on improving the nation’s biosafety framework. Most of the hour-plus meeting is dedicated to oral comments from stakeholders, signaling an emphasis on community feedback from laboratory safety officers, institutional biosafety committees, industry representatives, and other subject matter experts. The virtual format reflects ongoing NIH efforts to engage diverse voices in shaping stronger, more responsive biosafety oversight mechanisms  

This event will be held virtually on February 12 from 3:00 – 4:15 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

NEW: Public Health on the Pitch: Radiation Readiness for the FIFA World Cup 

From ASTHO: “Join ASTHO for a webinar focused on public health preparedness and response related to the upcoming FIFA World Cup. This session will highlight response operations to a radiological incident during a mass gathering. The discussion will be led by Dr. Ziad Kazzi, an emergency physician and medical toxicologist with internationally recognized expertise in poisoning and radiation toxicology. 

Dr. Kazzi will address key response considerations from a health department and public health lens, including triage, contamination management, radiation safety roles and detection assets, community reception centers, medical countermeasures, and more. There will be time for a Q&A session to address questions from attendees.” 

This event will take place virtually on February 24 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

The 100 Days Mission: Defending Against Pandemic and Biological Risks in a Fragmented World  

From Foreign Policy: “The 100 Days Mission—led by CEPI and endorsed by G7 and G20 leaders—is establishing tools and capabilities to ensure that safe and effective vaccines can be developed within 100 days of a new viral threat. What will it take to embed these capabilities into national security strategies, defense planning, and sustained financing—before the next crisis tests the system? Held against the backdrop of the 2026 Munich Security Conference, Foreign Policy and CEPI will host an official side event to examine how cross-sector partnerships, shared planning, and coordinated financing can close preparedness gaps and strengthen collective defenses against future biological threats.”  

This event will be held in-person in Munich, Germany, on February 14 from 9:00 – 10:30 am CET. Learn more and register here. 

EBSA – Cyberbiosecurity: A Unique Marriage of Biosecurity and Information Systems 

From EBSA: “Increasing reliance on the internet and technology in research and biomedical laboratories has opened these organizations up to increased focus for cyberattacks. These attacks may be perpetrated by external actors or individuals internal to the organization (purposefully or accidentally) and can take advantage of a lack of knowledge by research staff about phishing, access control best practices, and network security especially of research instrumentation, automated laboratory equipment, and building automation and control systems that may be connected to the internet/cloud. This talk will introduce the types of cyberthreats that have been commonly perpetrated against research and biomedical organizations. We will discuss existing guidance documents from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that address critical infrastructure cybersecurity and information systems security controls and how they can be applied to all biomedical research organizations (BSL-1 through BSL-4). Finally, we will explain some of the best practices described in these documents relating to identity management and access control, awareness and training, and data security to give biorisk management and laboratory personnel a better working understanding of cyberbiosecurity.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 19 from 14:00 – 16:00 CET. Learn more and register here. 

Pick Your Poison: The Enduring Threat of Biological Toxins 

From the Atlantic Council: “The Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense at the Atlantic Council will host its latest meeting, mapping the threat picture of biological toxins and its implications for future biological attacks. Easy availability and control of ricin, botulinum and other toxins make them attractive weapons for use by US adversaries. This meeting of the Commission will discuss the historical and evolving threat of biological toxins and the unique scientific challenges inherent in detecting, characterizing, and attributing toxin attacks. The discussions will also touch upon the vulnerability of food and agricultural systems to toxin threats and the measures required to secure the supply chain from intentional adulteration.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 26 from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM ET. More details to come.  

 Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum 

From Johns Hopkins: “Join us in person for the Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum! This Forum convenes state and local public health officials, federal agency representatives, Congressional staff, veterinarians, diagnosticians, and leading scientific researchers to address the urgent challenges posed by H5N1 and future influenza threats. H5N1 already poses a major threat to the nation’s livestock and poultry industries. If it were to acquire the ability to spread from person to person, there would be increased challenges for detection, containment, and response. This Forum will focus on actionable, science-based recommendations and foster cross-sectoral collaboration to strengthen preparedness and response capacity across the One Health spectrum.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, March 3 from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on March 4-5, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

CBRNe Convergence Canada 2026

CBRNe World is hosting its fourth CBRNe Convergence Canada event this year in Toronto! This event will focus on a range of topical issues, including responding to potential CBRN incidents in the High North, response to terrorist attacks at major sporting events, and presentations on Canadian response capabilities, and the largest CBRN/Hazmat exhibition in Canada.

This event will take place April 13-15 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Toronto Downtown. Learn more here, and stay tuned for forthcoming information about CBRNe Convergence this November in Knoxville, TN!

International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France, from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

NEW: PPE Program Officer at Blueprint Biosecurity – Job Opening 

From Blueprint Biosecurity: “Blueprint Biosecurity is seeking a full-time PPE Program Officer to join our PPE team. Reporting directly to the PPE Program Director, this role focuses on applied research, roadmapping, and strategic grantmaking to advance the availability and accessibility of highly protective respiratory PPE in future outbreaks. Responsibilities include creating research-backed reports and materials, supporting our grantmaking portfolio, and helping to scope new program directions. 
 
This role offers significant autonomy over high-impact work — from shaping our research program to influencing the deployment of millions in philanthropic funding.” 

The deadline to apply is February 11. Learn more and submit your applications here. 

One Health Commission Board of Directors – Call for Applications 

From OHC: “The One Health Commission (OHC) is pleased to announce an open call for board members to join our governing body. As we implement our new constitution and bylaws, we are seeking distinguished experts who embody collaborative, multi- and transdisciplinary approaches for addressing shared health challenges across human, animal, environmental, and plant health domains.” 

The deadline to submit applications is February 15. Learn more and submit your application here. 

OPCW Senior Science Policy Officer (AI, Data Sciences and Knowledge Management) (P-4) – Job Opening 

From OPCW: “The Office of Strategy and Policy (OSP) develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and the Secretariat’s management, particularly relating to cross-cutting issues such as incidents of chemical weapons use, non-routine missions, chemical security, engagement with international organisations and chemical industry, education and outreach, counter-terrorism, and science and technology. This role in OSP ensures that the Science Policy Adviser is provided with expert advice on advancements in science and technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital sciences, through continuous monitoring and provision of specialised advice on applicability to the work of the OPCW. The individual will also help lead, coordinate, and integrate AI and data science-driven approaches and solutions to and in the work of the Secretariat. This role will also take the lead on the Organisation’s knowledge management activities, with a focus on the development and implementation of knowledge management systems and the development and application of digital tools to knowledge management processes.” 

The deadline to apply is February 18. Learn more and submit your application here. 

ICGEB Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity  

From the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: “With the co-funding of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation through the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), BWC ISU, the ICGEB offers early-career scientists from OECD/DAC countries a fellowship at ICGEB laboratories in Italy, India, South Africa and at the ICGEB Regional Research Centre in China, to receive hands on training in life sciences and detection and response to biological threats.” 

The closing date for applications is March 31, 23:59 CET. Learn more and apply here. 

 Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! This issue highlights the OPCW findings to address threat of chemical weapons by Syrian regime in 2016; the 2026 Doomsday Clock update that shows the growing urgency surrounding nuclear, AI, and biological threats; the first H5N1 detection in European cattle and ongoing avian influenza collaborations; U.S. national security implications for emerging biotechnology; and the latest guidance on managing biological AI tools. 

Thinking About Graduate School?  

George Mason University is hosting Mason Square Open House to allow prospective students to explore the different degree programs offered at the master’s, doctoral, and professional levels, as well as graduate-level certificates.  

• Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 5:30 pm to 7:15 pm EST 

Van Metre Hall Multipurpose Room 

3351 Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22201, US 

Thinking about Getting a Master’s in Biodefense?  

GMU’s Schar School of Policy and Government has an upcoming recruitment event: 

• Virtual MS of Biodefense on Wednesday, February 11 (noon to 1:00 pm ET) 

Why Biotechnology is Shaping U.S. National Security  

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

Biotechnology is no longer limited to laboratories or the healthcare industry. As biological systems converge with data, artificial intelligence (AI), cyber, and advanced manufacturing, they now serve as dual-use strategic assets, driving both economic growth and innovation while also introducing new national and biosecurity risks. Strengthening governance frameworks, public-private partnerships, and securing biomanufacturing and data ecosystems will be essential to sustaining U.S. technical leadership and national resilience. 

Strengthening Global Norms Against Chemical Weapons Use  

On January 21, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) released its fifth report by the Investigation and Identification Team, “Addressing the Threat from Chemical Weapons Use,” examining the 2016 chlorine attack in Kafr Zeita, Syria. The Secretariat concluded that there were “reasonable grounds” to believe that the Syrian Arab Air Forces were responsible for the chemical attack.  

The Hill reported that justice for the victims and survivors carried out by the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime is now closer than ever. In an opinion piece, George Mason University Biodefense Director Dr. Gregory D. Koblentz emphasized that the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024 represents an unprecedented opportunity to pursue accountability. He stressed that holding the Assad regime responsible for its use of chemical weapons is not only a matter of justice, but a critical step to strengthen the global norm against chemical weapons and deter future leaders from their use.   

THE OPCW’s findings were supported by unprecedented cooperation from Syria’s new authorities, and reflects renewed international efforts to document past abuses, verify declarations, and advance accountability from State Parties under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).  

The Netherlands Confirms First Bird Flu Detection in European Cattle 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

European health authorities are on alert following the first documented detection of H5N1 antibodies in a Dutch dairy cow. Although H5N1 bird flu has been detected in many dairy herds across the United States since March 2024, this is the first detection in cattle outside the U.S.  

The discovery occurred in the Netherlands’ Friesland province after the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) was notified in late December 2025 that a cat tested positive for bird flu and subsequently died two days later. The cat was traced back to a particular dairy farm, and a random sample of the farm’s cows were screened for avian influenza on January 15, 2026. Screening revealed antibodies in milk samples from just one cow, indicating a previous infection in that animal, though no active virus or sick animals were detected on the farm. NVWA followed up on January 22nd to collect blood and milk samples from all cattle present. Again, no active avian influenza virus was detected; however, the results of the antibody tests are still pending. 

European Institutions Unite to Combat H5N1 Threat 

The Dutch cattle detection underscores growing concerns about H5N1’s expanding host range as each spillover event raises the possibility of viral adaptation that could increase the risk to humans. To address the rising threat posed by avian influenza, particularly in livestock species, a new, three-year international research project has been announced. Funded through the EU Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare (EUPAHW), this initiative will be led by the University of Copenhagen and involve leading European institutions, including the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment in France, the University of Freiburg in Germany, and the Pirbright Institute in the United Kingdom. The project focuses on H5 avian influenza and will investigate viral genetics, assess mammalian host susceptibility with an emphasis on cattle and pigs, and evaluate immune response and vaccination strategies in animals.   

Further Reading:  

• “Study suggests pre-existing immunity to H5N1 avian flu varies by age, prior exposure,” Laine Bergeson, CIDRAP 
• “Genomic features associated with sustained mammalian transmission of avian influenza A viruses,” Ye, et al., Nature Microbiology  
• “Some vaccines are making progress in protecting vulnerable species,” Erin Garcia de Jesús, ScienceNews  
• “Are swans more likely to die from bird flu?” Galya Dimitrova, BBC 

2026 Doomsday Clock Statement: It is now 85 seconds to midnight 

From the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: “On January 27, 2026, the Doomsday Clock was set at 85 seconds to midnight, the closest the Clock has ever been to midnight in its history. The Bulletin’s Science and Security Board (SASB), which sets the Clock, called for urgent action to limit nuclear arsenals, create international guidelines on the use of AI, and form multilateral agreements to address global biological threats.”  

New Paper on Safeguarding the Responsible Use of Biological AI Tools  

In a new report, Sarah Carter and Greg Butchello from the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) have proposed a new, tiered, and managed access framework for biological AI tools. Their paper addresses the convergence of AI and life sciences, providing guidance on risk levels bio-design tools, criteria for user legitimacy, and practices for verifying users.  

Further Reading:  

• “Living Framework and Guidelines for Information Disclosure in Biosecurity,” Jay Atanda, Matthew Nicotra, Benjamin Sperisen, Elika Somani, and Henry H. Willis, RAND 
• “Why Biotechnology Is Central to U.S. National Security,”  Bens Lens 
• “The failing economics of biosecurity,” Dirk Van Der Kley, Bio Brawl 
• “AI-powered military neurotech: Mind enhancement or control?” Aliya Sternstein, Military Times 

In Other News 

Global Health and WHO Developments 

• “Joint Statement by Secretary of State Rubio and Secretary of Health and Human Services Kennedy on the Termination of U.S. Membership in the World Health Organization (WHO),” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 
• “US withdraws from the World Health Organization,” Jennifer Rigby and Emma Farge, Reuters 
• “WHO statement on notification of withdrawal of the United States,” World Health Organization 
• “As U.S. prepares to exit WHO, it is stiffing the agency on a large bill,” Helen Branswell, StatNews 
• “California becomes first state to join WHO disease network after US exit,” Joseph Choi, The Hill  

Pandemic Preparedness and Bioethics  

• “Fifth Implementation Report,” International Pandemic Preparedness Secretariat 
• “Report of the International Bioethics Committee (IBC) on the ethical issues of synthetic biology: research, development and application,” International Bioethics Committee 
• “William H. Foege, Key Figure in the Eradication of Smallpox, Dies at 89,” Keith Schneider and Sheryl Gay Stolberg, NY Times 
• “Boiled pangolin for lunch? The rampant trade that could spark a new pandemic,” Sarah Newey, The Telegraph 

Genetics, Ethics and Misuse of Science 

• “Genetic Data From Over 20,000 U.S. Children Misused for ‘Race Science’,” Mike McIntire, NY Times 
• “Deadly ‘reverse’ cells can destroy us unless scientists stop them,” Vaughn S. Cooper, Scientific American 
• “Misinformation Studies Meets the Raw Milk Renaissance,” Renee DiResta, Lawfare 
• “Rejecting Decades of Science, Vaccine Panel Chair Says Polio and Other Shots Should Be Optional,” Apoorva Mandavilli, NY Times 

Podcast: Behind the scenes of “A House of Dynamite” George Mason’s Access to Excellence 

NEW: The 100 Days Mission: Defending Against Pandemic and Biological Risks in a Fragmented World  

From Foreign Policy: “The 100 Days Mission—led by CEPI and endorsed by G7 and G20 leaders—is establishing tools and capabilities to ensure that safe and effective vaccines can be developed within 100 days of a new viral threat. What will it take to embed these capabilities into national security strategies, defense planning, and sustained financing—before the next crisis tests the system? Held against the backdrop of the 2026 Munich Security Conference, Foreign Policy and CEPI will host an official side event to examine how cross-sector partnerships, shared planning, and coordinated financing can close preparedness gaps and strengthen collective defenses against future biological threats.”  

This event will be held in-person in Munich, Germany, on February 14 from 9:00 – 10:30 am CET. Learn more and register here. 

EBSA – Cyberbiosecurity: A Unique Marriage of Biosecurity and Information Systems 

From EBSA: “Increasing reliance on the internet and technology in research and biomedical laboratories has opened these organizations up to increased focus for cyberattacks. These attacks may be perpetrated by external actors or individuals internal to the organization (purposefully or accidentally) and can take advantage of a lack of knowledge by research staff about phishing, access control best practices, and network security especially of research instrumentation, automated laboratory equipment, and building automation and control systems that may be connected to the internet/cloud. This talk will introduce the types of cyberthreats that have been commonly perpetrated against research and biomedical organizations. We will discuss existing guidance documents from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that address critical infrastructure cybersecurity and information systems security controls and how they can be applied to all biomedical research organizations (BSL-1 through BSL-4). Finally, we will explain some of the best practices described in these documents relating to identity management and access control, awareness and training, and data security to give biorisk management and laboratory personnel a better working understanding of cyberbiosecurity.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 19 from 14:00 – 16:00 CET. Learn more and register here. 

Pick Your Poison: The Enduring Threat of Biological Toxins 

From the Atlantic Council: “The Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense at the Atlantic Council will host its latest meeting, mapping the threat picture of biological toxins and its implications for future biological attacks. Easy availability and control of ricin, botulinum and other toxins make them attractive weapons for use by US adversaries. This meeting of the Commission will discuss the historical and evolving threat of biological toxins and the unique scientific challenges inherent in detecting, characterizing, and attributing toxin attacks. The discussions will also touch upon the vulnerability of food and agricultural systems to toxin threats and the measures required to secure the supply chain from intentional adulteration.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 26 from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM ET. More details to come.  

 Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum 

From Johns Hopkins: “Join us in person for the Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum! This Forum convenes state and local public health officials, federal agency representatives, Congressional staff, veterinarians, diagnosticians, and leading scientific researchers to address the urgent challenges posed by H5N1 and future influenza threats. H5N1 already poses a major threat to the nation’s livestock and poultry industries. If it were to acquire the ability to spread from person to person, there would be increased challenges for detection, containment, and response. This Forum will focus on actionable, science-based recommendations and foster cross-sectoral collaboration to strengthen preparedness and response capacity across the One Health spectrum.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, March 3 from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on March 4-5, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

CBRNe Convergence Canada 2026

CBRNe World is hosting its fourth CBRNe Convergence Canada event this year in Toronto! This event will focus on a range of topical issues, including responding to potential CBRN incidents in the High North, response to terrorist attacks at major sporting events, and presentations on Canadian response capabilities, and the largest CBRN/Hazmat exhibition in Canada.

This event will take place April 13-15 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Toronto Downtown. Learn more here, and stay tuned for forthcoming information about CBRNe Convergence this November in Knoxville, TN!

International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France, from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

One Health Commission Board of Directors – Call for Applications 

From OHC: “The One Health Commission (OHC) is pleased to announce an open call for board members to join our governing body. As we implement our new constitution and bylaws, we are seeking distinguished experts who embody collaborative, multi- and transdisciplinary approaches for addressing shared health challenges across human, animal, environmental, and plant health domains.” 

The deadline to submit applications is February 15. Learn more and submit your application here. 

OPCW Senior Science Policy Officer (AI, Data Sciences and Knowledge Management) (P-4) – Job Opening 

From OPCW: “The Office of Strategy and Policy (OSP) develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and the Secretariat’s management, particularly relating to cross-cutting issues such as incidents of chemical weapons use, non-routine missions, chemical security, engagement with international organisations and chemical industry, education and outreach, counter-terrorism, and science and technology. This role in OSP ensures that the Science Policy Adviser is provided with expert advice on advancements in science and technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital sciences, through continuous monitoring and provision of specialised advice on applicability to the work of the OPCW. The individual will also help lead, coordinate, and integrate AI and data science-driven approaches and solutions to and in the work of the Secretariat. This role will also take the lead on the Organisation’s knowledge management activities, with a focus on the development and implementation of knowledge management systems and the development and application of digital tools to knowledge management processes.” 

The deadline to apply is February 18. Learn more and submit your application here. 

ICGEB Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity  

From the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: “With the co-funding of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation through the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), BWC ISU, the ICGEB offers early-career scientists from OECD/DAC countries a fellowship at ICGEB laboratories in Italy, India, South Africa and at the ICGEB Regional Research Centre in China, to receive hands on training in life sciences and detection and response to biological threats.” 

The closing date for applications is March 31, 23:59 CET. Learn more and apply here. 

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! This issue highlights the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO and its implications for global health and biodefense, ongoing H5N1 outbreaks in the U.S. and Europe, GMU’s role in dual-use research training, and global partnership CBRN updates.  

Thinking About Graduate School?  

George Mason University is hosting Mason Square Open House to allow prospective students to explore the different degree programs offered at the master’s, doctoral, and professional levels, as well as graduate-level certificates.  

• Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 5:30 pm to 7:15 pm EST 

Van Metre Hall Multipurpose Room 

3351 Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22201, US 

Thinking about Getting a Master’s in Biodefense?  

GMU’s Schar School of Policy and Government has an upcoming recruitment event: 

• Virtual MS of Biodefense on Wednesday, February 11 (noon to 1:00 pm ET) 

U.S. Withdrawal from WHO Signals Shift in Global Health and Biodefense Posture 

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

The U.S. officially withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) yesterday, a move with implications that will shake up U.S. health and global health governance. President Trump initiated the withdrawal process on the first day of his second presidency in 2025, via an executive order. However, under U.S. law, the U.S. has exited with unpaid financial contributions to the tune of $278 million for the 2024-2025 period. On Thursday, a U.S. State Department spokesperson cited dissatisfaction with WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic as reasons for their departure.  

These developments coincide with the release of a compromise FY2026 foreign assistance appropriations bill by the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. The bill allocates roughly $50 billion for foreign assistance – nearly $20 billion above the administration’s budget request, though still representing a 16% cut from the previous fiscal year. Global health programs emerged as relative winners, retaining more than $9.4 billion in funding for priorities including child survival, immunization, public health, nutrition, HIV/AIDS prevention, and humanitarian assistance. The bill also included language from Congress directing the administration to manage a transition of HIV programs under the “America First” global health policy, signaling pressure for program evolution and congressional scrutiny. 

Domestically, the CDC deputy director downplayed the significance of the loss of U.S. measles elimination status, framing it as a “cost of doing business” amid increased international travel and ongoing vaccine skepticism. Measles elimination status is lost when a country is unable to halt disease transmission following an imported case. The CDC is working with states to help quell these outbreaks, with some transmission occurring in communities where parents have chosen not to vaccinate their children, citing personal freedoms. “As CDC, it is also our responsibility and our goal to support these communities in any way that we can to minimize the effects that measles would have, especially on the pediatric population,” Ralph Abraham, former Louisiana surgeon general. Abraham says he and HHS Secretary RFK Jr. have emphasized continued promotion of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination.  

Further Reading: 

• “Congress pushes back against Trump’s NIH cuts,” Peter Sullivan, Axios 
• “Pandemics & measles & AIDS: Oh my! Where Trump-Kennedy public health policy will lead,” Erik English, Matt Field, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 
• “One Year After Texas Measles Outbreak Began, Experts Consider Another Grim Milestone,” NYTimes 
• “HHS Gave a $1.6 Million Grant to a Controversial Vaccine Study. These Emails Show How That Happened,” Katherine Eban, Rolling Stone 
• “US science after a year of Trump,” Max Kozlov, Jeff Tollefson, and Dan Garisto, Nature  

Global Partnership to Prevent and Mitigate CBRN and Biothreats 

The Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction is a G7-led international initiative aimed at preventing state and non-state proliferation of and mitigating threats posed by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) weapons.  

• 2025 Global Partnership Annual Programming Annex: In 2025, GP members delivered 344 WMD threat reduction projects across 158 countries, totaling nearly US$3.13 billion in value. 
• Canada’s G7 Presidency Updates: GP members convened in Vancouver, Canada from November 19-21 for the final Global Partnership Working Group meeting under Canada’s G7. Key outcomes included the adoption of revised biological and chemical security programming strategies (GP Biosecurity Deliverables and GP Chemical Security Strategic Vision); the adoption of a new set of GP CBRN Deliverables addressing WMD disinformation challenges, strategic trade controls, and WMD-related technologies; and participation in a Global Forum to Prevent Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism side event.  
• INTERPOL released two new papers – “Challenges and Gaps in Bioterrorism’s Detection and Investigation” and “Strengthening Biosecurity at the Health and Security Interface” – highlighting gaps in bioterrorism detection and investigation and underscoring the importance of stronger coordination between public health, law enforcement, and security sectors.   
• WOAH release of The Fever short film on deliberate disease events: With support from Canada, the World Organisation for Animal Health launched “The Fever,” a short film on deliberate disease events, exploring how a bioterrorism attack could unfold and emphasizing the importance of coordinated, multisectoral prevention, detection and response.  

GMU Expertise Supporting WHO Training on Dual-Use Research and Biosecurity  

GMU’s Biodefense Director, Dr. Gregory Koblentz, has contributed to the development of a new training course with the World Health Organization (WHO) on ‘Dual-Use Research and the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences’ located on the WHO Academy Platform. Now available in French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian (with Portuguese forthcoming), the course examines dual-use research (DUR) issues and discusses ways to identify and mitigate potential biorisks as part of a multisectoral and cooperative approach across One Health, promoting the responsible use of the life sciences. Developed with contributions from international experts, the training aims to build awareness and capacity to prevent the misuse of biological research while advancing scientific innovation.  

Avian Influenza Continues to Impact Poultry Industries Across U.S. and Europe 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) continues to impact commercial poultry operations across the United States, with significant outbreaks reported in Kansas, Minnesota, Delaware, and Georgia since the start of the new year. Kansas has been the hardest hit thus far in 2026 with over 400,000 birds affected. Meanwhile, Delaware’s Kent County reported loss of 147,900 birds at a commercial broiler operation, while Georgia’s Walker County recorded 71,300 infected birds at a breeder facility. Smaller detections have also been reported in Colorado, North Carolina, Indiana, Arkansas and Oregon.  

On January 16, Minnesota reported an outbreak in commercial turkey meat birds affecting just over 250,000 birds. Amidst claims of alleged fraud, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a blanket freeze in USDA financial awards to Minnesota, causing temporary loss of funding to University of Minnesota’s Poultry Testing Laboratory, a vital diagnostic resource for the state’s poultry industry. After supporters requested an exemption on January 15, they were informed that the facility had already been included in a reversal issued the day prior. Despite the uncertainty and rapid changes in federal support, the university-run lab remains committed to providing surveillance of and testing for avian influenza and other poultry diseases for the state’s many producers.  

Europe is also experiencing a severe wave of H5N1 outbreaks. The continent recorded substantially more cases in 2025 than 2024, with 729 commercial poultry outbreaks compared to 451 the previous year. So far this year, 11 countries in the European Union and Great Britain have already reported 42 commercial poultry outbreaks, with Poland reporting the most farm detections (17), followed by 5 in each of France, Germany, and Hungary. Belgium’s West Flanders province faces unprecedented devastation, with over 5 million birds culled since early January. As West Flanders is responsible for 40% of Belgium’s poultry meat and egg production, the outbreaks have had a significant impact on the country’s supply of poultry products. Egg prices rose 25% domestically and supermarket rationing was instituted. Direct economic losses are estimated to reach €150 million by the end of the month. With dozens of outbreaks only three weeks into 2026, it remains to be seen whether this year may bring even greater challenges for Europe’s poultry industry despite continued diligent biosecurity and other countermeasures.  

Further Reading: 

• “USDA To Host Free Biosecurity Webinars for Dairy and Poultry Producers,” USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 
• “Peregrine falcon monitoring remains relevant in Iowa due to threat of bird flu,” Cami Koons, The Gazette 
• “Why the poultry sector needs a global pact to fight avian influenza,” Gert Jan Oplaat, Poultry World 
• “H9N2 avian influenza cases reported in China,” Robert Herriman, Outbreak News Today 

In Other News 

Emerging Biosecurity Risks  

• “Mirror Life Threats: Risks & Governance Solutions — Explained,” Aparupa Sengupta, NTI  
• “Viruses that evolved on the space station and were sent back to Earth were more effective at killing bacteria,” Manuela Callari, Live Science 
• “Food is Key to National Security,” Sarah Hill, Cattle Business Weekly   

Global Health News 

• “China’s Evolving Global Health Leadership,” Gareth Jones, Zhida Shang, Ruby Wang, Think Global Health 
• “Africa CDC confirms cancellation of US-funded hepatitis B vaccine study in Guinea-Bissau,” Agency Report, Premium Times Nigeria 

NEW: EBSA – Cyberbiosecurity: A Unique Marriage of Biosecurity and Information Systems 

From EBSA: “Increasing reliance on the internet and technology in research and biomedical laboratories has opened these organizations up to increased focus for cyberattacks. These attacks may be perpetrated by external actors or individuals internal to the organization (purposefully or accidentally) and can take advantage of a lack of knowledge by research staff about phishing, access control best practices, and network security especially of research instrumentation, automated laboratory equipment, and building automation and control systems that may be connected to the internet/cloud. This talk will introduce the types of cyberthreats that have been commonly perpetrated against research and biomedical organizations. We will discuss existing guidance documents from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that address critical infrastructure cybersecurity and information systems security controls and how they can be applied to all biomedical research organizations (BSL-1 through BSL-4). Finally, we will explain some of the best practices described in these documents relating to identity management and access control, awareness and training, and data security to give biorisk management and laboratory personnel a better working understanding of cyberbiosecurity.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 19 from 14:00 – 16:00 CET. Learn more and register here. 

 NEW: Pick Your Poison: The Enduring Threat of Biological Toxins 

From the Atlantic Council: “The Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense at the Atlantic Council will host its latest meeting, mapping the threat picture of biological toxins and its implications for future biological attacks. Easy availability and control of ricin, botulinum and other toxins make them attractive weapons for use by US adversaries. This meeting of the Commission will discuss the historical and evolving threat of biological toxins and the unique scientific challenges inherent in detecting, characterizing, and attributing toxin attacks. The discussions will also touch upon the vulnerability of food and agricultural systems to toxin threats and the measures required to secure the supply chain from intentional adulteration.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, February 26 from 10:00 AM-4:00 PM ET. More details to come.  

NEW: Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum 

From Johns Hopkins: “Join us in person for the Johns Hopkins H5N1 Influenza Preparedness & Response Forum! This Forum convenes state and local public health officials, federal agency representatives, Congressional staff, veterinarians, diagnosticians, and leading scientific researchers to address the urgent challenges posed by H5N1 and future influenza threats. H5N1 already poses a major threat to the nation’s livestock and poultry industries. If it were to acquire the ability to spread from person to person, there would be increased challenges for detection, containment, and response. This Forum will focus on actionable, science-based recommendations and foster cross-sectoral collaboration to strengthen preparedness and response capacity across the One Health spectrum.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, March 3 from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington DC on March 4-5, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

CBRNe Convergence Canada 2026

CBRNe World is hosting its fourth CBRNe Convergence Canada event this year in Toronto! This event will focus on a range of topical issues, including responding to potential CBRN incidents in the High North, response to terrorist attacks at major sporting events, and presentations on Canadian response capabilities, and the largest CBRN/Hazmat exhibition in Canada.

This event will take place April 13-15 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Toronto Downtown. Learn more here, and stay tuned for forthcoming information about CBRNe Convergence this November in Knoxville, TN!

International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

NEW: OPCW Senior Science Policy Officer (AI, Data Sciences and Knowledge Management) (P-4) – Job Opening 

From OPCW: “The Office of Strategy and Policy (OSP) develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and the Secretariat’s management, particularly relating to cross-cutting issues such as incidents of chemical weapons use, non-routine missions, chemical security, engagement with international organisations and chemical industry, education and outreach, counter-terrorism, and science and technology. This role in OSP ensures that the Science Policy Adviser is provided with expert advice on advancements in science and technology, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital sciences, through continuous monitoring and provision of specialised advice on applicability to the work of the OPCW. The individual will also help lead, coordinate, and integrate AI and data science-driven approaches and solutions to and in the work of the Secretariat. This role will also take the lead on the Organisation’s knowledge management activities, with a focus on the development and implementation of knowledge management systems and the development and application of digital tools to knowledge management processes.” 

The deadline to apply is February 18. Learn more and submit your application here. 

OPCW Senior Science Policy Officer (Biochemistry) (P-4) – Job Opening 

From OPCW: “The Office of Strategy and Policy develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and senior management. The strategy and policy formulation and implementation relate to a range of cross-cutting topics, including incidents of chemical weapons use, engagement with chemical industry, chemical security, counterterrorism, and science and technology. 

The Senior Science Policy Officer will focus on monitoring advances in science and technology relevant to the Chemical Weapons Convention, with particular emphasis on fields at the convergence of chemistry and biology. The incumbent of this post will keep pace with developments, analyse and understand their implications for implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, and communicate this information to a range of internal and external stakeholders.” 

The deadline to apply is January 30. Learn more and submit your application here. 

Cyberbiosecurity Workshop Has Opened Its Call for Papers 

The IEEE Cyberbiosecurity Workshop has opened its Call for Papers for the Cyberbiosecurity Workshop. They invite researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and industry leader to submit original work addressing the growing security challenges at the intersection of cybersecurity, biotechnology, agriculture, medicine, AI, and the bioeconomy. Topics include (but are not limited to) biological infrastructure security, AI safety in biotechnology, DNA synthesis and screening, neurotechnology security, agricultural cyberbiosecurity, data protection and privacy, regulatory frameworks, and real-world case studies.  

Paper submissions are due January 30, 2026, and accepted papers will be published in the IEEE Computer Society Press proceedings. Learn more and submit here.  

One Health Commission Board of Directors – Call for Applications 

From OHC: “The One Health Commission (OHC) is pleased to announce an open call for board members to join our governing body. As we implement our new constitution and bylaws, we are seeking distinguished experts who embody collaborative, multi- and transdisciplinary approaches for addressing shared health challenges across human, animal, environmental, and plant health domains.” 

The deadline to submit applications is February 15. Learn more and submit your application here. 

ICGEB Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity  

From the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: “With the co-funding of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation through the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), BWC ISU, the ICGEB offers early-career scientists from OECD/DAC countries a fellowship at ICGEB laboratories in Italy, India, South Africa and at the ICGEB Regional Research Centre in China, to receive hands on training in life sciences and detection and response to biological threats.” 

The closing date for applications is March 31, 23:59 CET. Learn more and apply here. 

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! This issue features an overhaul of U.S. global health leadership under the new “America First Global Health Strategy”; the U.S. withdrawal from the Science and Technology Center in Ukraine and its implications for WMD nonproliferation; and groundbreaking research on a nasal spray bird flu vaccine showing protection in ferrets.   

US Withdraws from Nonproliferation Center in Ukraine 

By Gregory Koblentz, Editor in Chief of the Pandora Report; Director, Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University. 

Among the 66 international organizations, the Trump Administration has announced its intent to withdraw from the Science and Technology Center in Ukraine (STCU), an internationally funded organization based in Kyiv dedicated to preventing the proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons. The organization, founded in 1993, creates education, training, and mentorship programs to promote international best practices to mitigate chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats through civilian science and technology partnerships. STCU has been the subject of relentless, unfounded allegations by Russia that it has supported the development of biological weapons in Ukraine. As Biodefense Program Director, Gregory Koblentz has described in a talk at NTI, this false narrative was a key component of Russia’s disinformation campaign to justify its illegal and unjustified invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Needless to say, Russian state media is ecstatic about this decision by the Trump Administration. Professor Koblentz, Biodefense PhD student Ryan Houser, and Kings College professor Filippa Lentzos co-authored an article in 2023 about Ukraine’s legitimate efforts to strengthen its biosafety and biosecurity and the importance of international assistance from the United States, STCU, and others, to help Ukraine achieve this objective. The Global Partnership Against the Spread of WMD sponsors a WMD Counter Disinfo project (co-lead by Dr. Lentzos) that provides more information about Russian disinformation related to biological weapons (and other weapons of mass destruction) and how to counter this disinformation. 

Further Reading: 

• “Justice is finally within reach for victims of Syria’s chemical weapons attacks,” Gregory Koblentz, The Hill  
• “Action Urgently Needed to Clarify, Eliminate Syria’s Chemical Weapons, Senior Disarmament Official Warns Security Council,” UN 
• “We welcome the Syrian leadership’s commitment to eradicate chemical weapons: UK statement at the UN Security Council,” Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Caroline Quinn, UK Deputy Political Coordinator 
• “We Must Remain Committed to a World Free of Chemical Weapons,” Izumi Nakamitsu, UN 

America First, Again: The Biggest Shake-Up in US Global Health Leadership in Decades 

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

Called the America First Global Health Strategy, the program aims to strengthen U.S. geopolitical and economic leverage in developing countries – particularly across Africa – while reducing reliance on non-government organizations (NGOs) that previously delivered aid through USAID. To date, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signed 14 bilateral health agreements with African countries, focusing on areas such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and maternal health. Some of the deals are tied to specific political commitments, including Nigeria’s pledge to protect Christians from persecution. Negotiations with copper-rich Zambia are also ongoing, but have reportedly been stalled amid U.S. officials’ complaints about limited mining access for American firms. Public details remain scarce in these deals, though available agreements include language promoting U.S. commercial engagement – for example, Cote D’Ivoire’s MOU highlights “expanded opportunities for US companies”, while one with Rwanda says it “helps further American commercial interest in Rwanda and Africa more broadly.” In November, the Telegraph reported on leaked documents suggesting the Trump administration was also seeking long-term digital access to partner nations’ health information systems – potentially for up to 25 years – as a condition of receiving U.S. assistance.  

Further Reading: 

• “Inside Trump’s $11 billion health plan to replace “neo-colonial” USAID,” Marc Caputo, Axios. A parallel health agency designed explicitly to dismantle “neo-colonial” development models.  
• “KFF Tracker: America First MOU Bilateral Global Health Agreements,” KFF. A growing list of bilateral “America First MOUs” that reshape U.S. partner health responsibilities.  
• “US cuts to HIV programs in sub-Saharan Africa pose global risk, experts say,” Mary Van Beusekom, CIDRAP 

Nasal Spray Vaccine Shows Promise Against Bird Flu in Ferrets 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

In a study published on January 13 in Nature Communications, a nasal spray vaccine has demonstrated effective protection against H5N1 and H7N9 bird flu in laboratory ferrets, offering a new potential vaccine platform for influenza pandemic preparedness as avian influenza continues spreading across wildlife and livestock populations.  

Researchers at the Access to Advanced Health Institute vaccinated ferrets with either the experimental intranasal RNA vaccine or a traditional intramuscular injection, then challenged both groups alongside unvaccinated controls with a high dose of virus delivered directly into their nasal passages. Ferrets vaccinated against H7N9 remained free of clinical signs throughout while the unvaccinated controls developed fever and illness. The virus was no longer detectable in the nasal passages of vaccinated animals by day 5 post-infection. The results against H5N1 were even more remarkable. All six ferrets that received the nasal spray vaccine survived and without ever developing symptoms, while all unvaccinated ferrets died within one week and the older injectable H5N1 vaccine group had one fatality on day 9. 

Traditional flu shots only generate immunity in the bloodstream; however, the nasal spray generates comparable blood antibody levels to injectable vaccines as well as protective defenses directly in the respiratory tract where flu infections begin. The vaccine uses self-amplifying RNA technology, similar to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, and produces specialized IgA antibodies in the lungs along with resident immune cells that remain stationed in lung tissue. 

In addition to its efficacy, the intranasal influenza vaccine could also offer practical advantages for pandemic preparedness. Manufacturers would be able to stockpile stable components and then quickly produce new RNA vaccines to target emerging viral strains, bypassing the months-long process of growing viruses in chicken eggs. After freeze-drying, the vaccine remains stable for at least two years without ultra-cold storage, eliminating the need for ultra-cold freezers which complicated the roll out of COVID-19 vaccines. In 2024, the FDA approved self-administration of FluMist, a vaccine for influenza virus subtypes A and B, to allow administration without a health care provider. This precedent could allow for future approval and distribution of a needle-free, at-home vaccination for bird flu in the event of a pandemic. 

While human clinical trials are still needed, this platform could represent a significant advance in pandemic response capabilities. 

Experts Urge USDA to Reconsider Vaccination Strategy 

Veterinary scientists Ellen P. Carlin and Gwendolen Reyes-Illg published a compelling opinion piece in STAT News this week, criticizing the USDA’s current approach to the ongoing avian influenza pandemic and urging for nation-wide poultry vaccination.  

Since 2022, nearly 185 million birds have been lost as a result of the H5N1 avian influenza outbreak. Most birds were preemptively killed when housed near infected flocks, following the current USDA policy focused on elimination of birds on affected farms and increased biosecurity to prevent reinfection. Carlin and Reyes-Illg argue this “depopulate and repeat” approach is failing, especially as bird flu becomes endemic in wild birds and evidence suggests possible airborne transmission. In addition to the animal welfare concerns of this mass culling strategy, the economic impact has been significant. Nearly $2 billion of tax-payer money has been spent on response, primarily in compensation to farmers for animal losses from depopulation and consumer spending on eggs rose $14.5 billion in one year alone.  

Unfortunately, the primary obstacle to widespread vaccination is diplomatic rather than scientific. The USDA has already licensed at least eight effective vaccines developed with federal funding, and successful vaccination of ducks in France reduced outbreak sizes up to 99%. However, there is concern some trading partners might restrict imports from countries with vaccinated flocks, fearing spread of infection from asymptomatic birds. Carlin and Reyes-Illg propose coupling vaccination with robust diagnostic surveillance to provide confidence that exported poultry remain disease-free, an approach supported by the World Organization for Animal Health. They emphasize that trade agreements can be renegotiated, noting, “It’s happening every day for tariffs; why not for chickens?”  

Further Reading: 

• “413,000 Kansas birds impacted by worst bird flu outbreak nationwide in 2026,” Matthew Self, KSNT 
• “Avian flu devastates elephant seals in Southern Hemisphere, raising concerns for California coast,” Brian Hackney, CBS News 
• “Second bird flu outbreak hits major egg producer,” BBC 
• “The Worls is Sleeping on Bird Flu, Experts Warn,” Nikki Ikani, Science Alert 
• “’We need a bird flu vaccine to save the industry’,” Lee Madan, BBC 

In Other News 

Pandemic Preparedness and One Health  

• “Scaling Pandemic Preparedness and Response Cost Estimates for Disease Transmission Modes,” Aaron Strong, Matt Sharkey, Saskia Popescu, Henry H. Willis, Anita Chandra, RAND 
• “Planning For Potential Pandemics: The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations,” Mary Parker, Eureka 
• “Avian Influenza: A One Health Imperative for Global Health Governance,” Lakshmy Ramakrishnan,  Observer Research Foundation  
• “WHO research shows COVID vaccines still crucial in preventing severe illness,” UN News 

Biosafety, Biosecurity, & Biotech Regulation  

• “‘An undoing of the scientific method’: Flagship CEO warns of government threats to US biotech industry,” Darren Incorvaia, Fierce Biotech 
• “The Evolving Paradigm of AI-Biosecurity: Challenges and Solutions,” Ms. Tanya Darawagi and Dr. Suryesh K Namdeo, CNSS  
• “Getting Serious About Improving Biosafety: A Discussion of Better Biosecurity for the Bioeconomy,” David Gillum, Issues  
• “IBBIS Welcomes the Republic of Korea’s National AI-Bio Strategy,” IBBIS 
• “Machine Learning Unveils Bacillus anthracis Adaptability and Virulence,” Bioengineer.org 
• “A unified framework for International Health Regulations, the Biological Weapons Convention, and UN Security Council Resolution 1540,” Rohan Singh, Sana Zakaria, RAND 
• “A very thin gruel, indeed,” JP Zanders, The Trench 
• “The BWC at 50: African Conference Highlights Progress, Challenges and the Road Ahead,” Office for Disarmament Affairs 

NEW: Managing Borders during Global Public Health Emergencies; Lessons learned from COVID-19 – A Public Lecture 

From Asia Centre for Health Security: “The unprecedented use of international travel measures (ITMs) during the COVID-19 pandemic became a challenging and, eventually, controversial policy issue.  Evidence from the pandemic shows that these measures can play an important role in slowing or reducing the introduction and onward spread of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2.  At the same time, the largely uncoordinated, varied and frequently changing way in which ITMs were used during the pandemic led to suboptimal public health outcomes. The measures also caused widespread secondary impacts that were costly, inequitable, and societally divisive. 

The complexity of whether, when and how to apply different types of ITMs means that the evidence-base continues to evolve on best practices. As future pandemic events are likely to involve a fast-moving novel pathogen, spreading in a highly globalised world, public health responses will again need to make decisions about mitigating travel-related risks in real time. 

Drawing on more than five years of research on ITMs and pandemic events by the Pandemics and Borders Project, this lecture will review the current evidence on their use and the key lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. This will be followed by a panel discussion about experiences in the Southeast Asian region and then audience Q&A.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, January 22 from 10:00-11:30 AM (GMT+8, Singapore Time). Learn more and RSVP here. 

NEW: Global Biorisk Index for AI-Powered Biodesign Tools – A Webinar 

From Asia Centre for Health Security: “Artificial intelligence-enabled biological design tools (AI-BDTs) transform life sciences with the potential to accelerate discovery and lower technical barriers to achieve impact. These advances promise major innovation gains with outcomes relevant to public health. However, they also introduce novel pathways for misuse, amplification of biological risks, and challenges for global governance. 

This presentation will introduce the RAND CLTR* AI-BDT Global Risk Index, an evidence-based framework to assess the biological capabilities and potential misuse of AI-BDTs. The talk will describe the analytic approach, key findings, and insights. We will also discuss implications for policy, responsible innovation, and international coordination in order to ensure AI-BDTs remain safe, secure, and beneficial.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, January 22 from 5:00-6:00 PM (GMT+8, Singapore Time). Learn more and RSVP here. 

NEW: mRNA: A Key to National Security – A Hybrid Summit 

From the Council on Strategic Risks: “Through an engaging set of presentations and panel discussions, this symposium will: 

• Discuss the most pressing risks to national security from infectious diseases 
• Educate participants on the fundamentals of mRNA medicine 
• Explain mRNA medicines’ essential role in military readiness and national defense, and  
• Examine the national security risks if adversarial nations advance their mRNA capabilities while the United States reduces investment in this strategic technology.” 

This event will be hybrid – online and in-person at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Center on Thursday, January 22 from 1:00-4:00 PM ET. Learn more and RSVP here.  

NEW: Genomic Surveillance & Pathogen Data Sharing: A New Era for Scientific Diplomacy – A Virtual Fireside Chat 

From Harvard’s Belfer Center: “Join us for a virtual fireside chat on emerging technology, scientific advancement, and global policy, featuring Belfer Center Fellow Dr. Syra Madad and Dr. Kristian Andersen, Director of Infectious Disease Genomics at the Scripps Research Translational Institute.” 

This event will take place virtually on Thursday, January 22 at 4:00-5:00 PM ET. Learn more and RSVP here. 

NEW: CBRNe Convergence Canada 2026

CBRNe World is hosting its fourth CBRNe Convergence Canada event this year in Toronto! This event will focus on a range of topical issues, including responding to potential CBRN incidents in the High North, response to terrorist attacks at major sporting events, and presentations on Canadian response capabilities, and the largest CBRN/Hazmat exhibition in Canada.

This event will take place April 13-15 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Toronto Downtown. Learn more here, and stay tuned for forthcoming information about CBRNe Convergence this November in Knoxville, TN!

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington DC on March 4-5, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

NEW: OPCW Senior Science Policy Officer (Biochemistry) (P-4) – Job Opening 

From OPCW: “The Office of Strategy and Policy develops the Technical Secretariat’s strategic planning and provides policy advice to the Director-General and senior management. The strategy and policy formulation and implementation relate to a range of cross-cutting topics, including incidents of chemical weapons use, engagement with chemical industry, chemical security, counterterrorism, and science and technology. 

The Senior Science Policy Officer will focus on monitoring advances in science and technology relevant to the Chemical Weapons Convention, with particular emphasis on fields at the convergence of chemistry and biology. The incumbent of this post will keep pace with developments, analyse and understand their implications for implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, and communicate this information to a range of internal and external stakeholders.” 

The deadline to apply is January 30. Learn more and submit your application here. 

NEW: Cyberbiosecurity Workshop Has Opened Its Call for Papers 

The IEEE Cyberbiosecurity Workshop has opened its Call for Papers for the Cyberbiosecurity Workshop. They invite researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and industry leader to submit original work addressing the growing security challenges at the intersection of cybersecurity, biotechnology, agriculture, medicine, AI, and the bioeconomy. Topics include (but are not limited to) biological infrastructure security, AI safety in biotechnology, DNA synthesis and screening, neurotechnology security, agricultural cyberbiosecurity, data protection and privacy, regulatory frameworks, and real-world case studies.  

Paper submissions are due January 30, 2026, and accepted papers will be published in the IEEE Computer Society Press proceedings. Learn more and submit here.  

NEW: One Health Commission Board of Directors – Call for Applications 

From OHC: “The One Health Commission (OHC) is pleased to announce an open call for board members to join our governing body. As we implement our new constitution and bylaws, we are seeking distinguished experts who embody collaborative, multi- and transdisciplinary approaches for addressing shared health challenges across human, animal, environmental, and plant health domains.” 

The deadline to submit applications is February 15. Learn more and submit your application here. 

NEW: ICGEB Fellowships for Scientists in Biosecurity  

From the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: “With the co-funding of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation through the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), BWC ISU, the ICGEB offers early-career scientists from OECD/DAC countries a fellowship at ICGEB laboratories in Italy, India, South Africa and at the ICGEB Regional Research Centre in China, to receive hands on training in life sciences and detection and response to biological threats.” 

The closing date for applications is March 31, 23:59 CET. Learn more and apply here. 

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! Happy New Year! 🎉  This issue highlights breakthroughs in global health, including HIV and malaria milestones, ongoing challenges from U.S. foreign aid cuts, and cutting-edge developments in AI, biotechnology, and pandemic preparedness.  

Biodefense Doctoral Student Selected for Prestigious Biosecurity Fellowship 

Kimberly Ma, a Biodefense PhD student at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, has been selected for the 2026 class of the Emerging Leaders in Biosecurity Initiative (ELBI) fellowship. The ELBI Fellowship, offered by the Center for Health Security at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, is the most distinguished fellowship available to rising members of the biosecurity profession.  

Kimmy is a Policy Advisor at the U.S. National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), where she leads the biosecurity workstream and co-leads the infrastructure workstream. Her work consists primarily of supporting NSCEB Commissioners in developing policy recommendations, legislative proposals, and external engagements with stakeholders and experts. Kimmy, who is in her fourth year in the Biodefense PhD program, said, “My time in George Mason’s Biodefense program as a PhD student has been a huge force in sharpening my mind when it comes to biosecurity and biodefense matters. I have no doubt that it has played a major factor in my professional success and selection into the ELBI cohort for this coming year. I look forward to building on my time at GMU this coming year through both my continued BIOD studies and ELBI engagements!”  

During the ELBI fellowship, participants will participate in biosecurity workshops, networking events, and research symposiums, both in Washington DC and abroad. Kimmy is the ninth Biodefense student or alum to be selected as an ELBI Fellow.

Global Health at a Crossroads: Turbulence and Transformation in 2025  

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report  

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on 2025 – a year marked by deep challenges but also meaningful progress in global health.  

Several major changes left the global health system on shaky grounds. Severe U.S. foreign aid cuts, the dissolution of USAID, and shifting priorities among major donors – including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom – left considerable gaps in disease-focused programs worldwide.  

And yet, 2025 also delivered historic milestones as well. The Maldives eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, while Brazil was validated by WHO for reducing vertical HIV transmission, becoming the largest country in the Americas to reach this achievement. Suriname, Timor-Leste, and Georgia were all certified as malaria-free, joining a growing cohort of now 47 countries and one territory. Meanwhile, new HIV-prevention drugs are emerging: the drug known as Lenacapavir was approved in the U.S. after clinical trials showed it to be nearly 100% effective in HIV prevention in women and 96% effective in men. In November, the U.S. Department of State and the Global Fund delivered the first of 4 million doses to low- and middle-income countries, with Eswatini and Zambia receiving initial allocations.  

At the same time, the U.S. global health engagements continue to shift. Under its new, “America First” strategy, the Trump administration has signed bilateral health agreements with at least nine African nations – including Kenya, Nigeria, and Rwanda – emphasizing “mutual benefit,” conditionality, and reduced financial assistance. The approach has raised concerns, as some of those that have signed deals either have been affected by U.S. aid cuts or have agreements to accept and host third-country deportees.  

These policy changes abroad come as scientific and public health sectors experience added pressures at home. A new report from Yale’s Center for Infectious Disease Modeling and Analysis (CIDMA) warns that cancelling federal funding for mRNA vaccine research could carry devastating consequences, estimating more than $75 billion in annual economic losses and over 49,000 preventable deaths each year. “mRNA vaccine platforms represent an extraordinary convergence of clinical promise and societal value,” said Alison Galvani, director of CIDMA.  

Food safety experts are also sounding the alarm: recent federal cuts could degrade U.S. food safety leaving more people vulnerable to foodborne illness. These changes include a reduced number of pathogens now monitored by surveillance programs, brain drain of CDC and FDA staff, and cuts to administrative and inspection capacity. This has led to a historic low in inspections of foreign food facilities and U.S. imports, raising the likelihood of the occurrence of preventable outbreaks.   

As infectious-disease experts look toward 2026, many are watching the potential threats posed by avian influenza (H5N1), mpox, HIV, and measles as viruses that could affect human lives in new ways. While the public health landscape continues to evolve, it remains essential that we work together coherently toward a well-functioning system and society that protects everyone – advancing scientific breakthroughs as we navigate unprecedented political headwinds.  

Further Reading: 

• “How RFK Jr. upended the public health system,” Rachel Roubein, Lena H. Sun and Lauren Weber, WP 
• “Inside the FDA’s Vaccine Uproar,” Celine Gounder, KFF Health News  
• “What viruses an infectious-disease doctor is watching for in 2026,” Patrick Jackson, WP 
• “NIH official resigns after flap over risks of seasonal flu virus study,” Jon Cohen, Science 

Avian Influenza Updates: Catching Up After the Holiday Break 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) showed no signs of slowing during the holiday season. In late December, confirmed outbreaks of bird flu struck five additional US states, affecting more than 128,000 birds. The largest single loss occurred at a broiler farm in Maryland, where over 96,000 birds were affected. Additional outbreaks hit Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska, and New York. In December 2025, 80 U.S. flocks confirmed detections of bird flu, with more than one million birds affected across 26 commercial and 54 backyard flocks. 

New Spillover Event in Wisconsin Dairy Cattle 

On December 14, USDA confirmed detection of HPAI in a Wisconsin dairy herd, representing a new spillover event from wildlife into cattle. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the virus is H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1, a strain implicated in spillover events in two dairy herds in Nevada and Arizona in early 2025. The recently detected Wisconsin case is considered separate from those previous spillovers and, thus far, no additional infected herds have been identified in connection with this event. Of note, the D1.1 genotype is distinct from the B3.13 genotype that has affected most US dairy herds since bird flu infection in cattle was first detected in the Texas Panhandle in late 2023. 

Global Wildlife Crisis 

Unfortunately, the avian influenza outbreak extends far beyond farms and commercial animals. The European Food Safety Authority reported exceptionally high HPAI activity in wild birds during Europe’s 2025 autumn migration. Detections quadrupled from 2024, reaching the highest levels since 2016. The resulting wildlife mortality in many bird species and as a result of spillover events in mammals have caused unprecedented biodiversity loss globally. For instance, in the subantarctic islands of South Georgia, southern elephant seals have lost nearly 50% of breeding females since 2023, and albatross colonies in the Falkland Islands experienced recurrent outbreaks and marked declines in breeding birds. The World Organization for Animal Health has stressed that continued spillover of bird flu into mammals also raises One Health concerns with potential consequences for companion animals, agricultural species, and human health as the outbreaks continue.  

Growing Concerns for Human Health in 2026 

Virologists have expressed heightened concerns about avian influenza’s trajectory in the coming year. While human cases remain rare in the United States, with only 71 confirmed human cases resulting in two deaths, experts warn that the virus’s widespread circulation in migratory birds, farm animals, and many mammalian species increases the risk of dangerous mutations from genome reassortment. Every new infected host represents another opportunity for the virus to evolve as their segmented genome allows different strains to mix and produce new hybrid viruses when they infect the same cell. The central fear continues to be the risk of sustained human-to-human transmission, which fortunately hasn’t yet occurred; however, experts are concerned about surveillance gaps in the US. Monitoring varies dramatically between states and data sharing has become inconsistent and harder to interpret, raising the risk that early warning signs could be missed.  

Meanwhile, seasonal human influenza cases have skyrocketed, with more than 25% of tests positive for influenza as of late December, almost double last year’s rate at this time. Hospitalization rates are three times higher than the 2023-2024 season and have already surpassed last season’s peak, which wasn’t reached until February. The surge is driven by subclade K, a variant that emerged after this year’s flu vaccine was designed, making the shot less effective than usual and providing only 30-40% protection against hospitalization in adults. The combination of widespread avian influenza circulation in animals and a severe season of established human flu strains with reduced vaccine effectiveness raises troubling questions: if our healthcare systems are already strained by a poorly matched seasonal flu vaccine, what would happen if H5N1 suddenly gained the ability to spread between humans? 

Fortunately, progress is still being made toward a bird flu vaccine in humans. Moderna announced in mid-December that it received over $54 million in funding from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), a public-private partnership working to develop vaccines for pandemic preparedness, to take its H5 avian influenza mRNA vaccine candidate into Phase 3 clinical trials. The Biden administration had previously awarded the pharmaceutical and biotechnology company over $700 million in government contracts for avian influenza vaccine research; however, these contracts were canceled by the Department of Health and Human Services earlier this year under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the new administration who have been critical of mRNA vaccine technology. In exchange for the funding from CEPI, Moderna has agreed to allocate 20% of vaccine production for low- and middle-income countries at affordable prices if the vaccine is approved and an avian influenza pandemic materializes.  

Further Reading: 

• “Stopping the next flu pandemic,” Cassanda Willyard, Nature 
• “Lawmakers push for bird flu vaccine,” Rachel Shin, Politico 
• “The quest to hatch a bird-flu vaccine,” Charles Schmidt, Nature 
• “State of Human H5N1 Therapeutics: A Rapid Expert Consultation,” The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine 
• “What’s the prognosis for bird flu in 2026?” June Hsu, Los Angeles Times 
• “Indian scientists predict how bird flu could spread to humans,” Soutik Biswas, BBC News 

In Other News 

Chemical and Biological Weapons History 

• “Chemical and Biological Warfare during the Rhodesian Bush War,” Matthew Turner, Small Wars Journal 
• “Dirty War: Rhodesia and Chemical Biological Warfare 1975-1980,” Glenn Cross. 
• “Is a biological weapons arms race on the horizon: impact of scientific advances and strategic competition?” Glenn A. Cross and W. Seth Carus, Frontiers 
• “Modern Tools for Modern Threats: Towards Strengthening BWC Implementation, Verification, and Assurance,” U.S. Department of State 
• “The best biosecurity coverage of 2025,” Matt Field, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 
• “A decade of chemical and biological disinformation, mapped,” Filippa Lentzos, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 

AI, Biotechnology & Future Biosecurity Risks  

• “O&I Subcommittee Holds Hearing on AI and Biotechnology” Energy and Commerce Hearing 
• “Hearing on “Examining Biosecurity at the Intersection of AI and Biology,” Energy and  Commerce Committee Democrats
• “Deterrence by Denial for Biological Weapons Threats,” Journal for Peace and Nuclear Disarmament  
• “Contemporary Foundation AI Models Increase Biological Weapons Risk,” Roger Brent and Greg McKelvey Jr., RAND 
• “Measuring AI’s capability to accelerate biological research in the wet lab,” OpenAI 
• “2025 AIxBio Wrapped: A Year in Review and Projections for 2026,” Crystal Grant, Council on Strategic Risks 

WMD, Fentanyl, and Public Health Misinformation 

• “Classification of illicit fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction is the right move,” Austin Svehla, Norfolk Daily News 
• “When Is a Drug a Weapon? The Legal Puzzles of Designating Fentanyl a ‘Weapon of Mass Destruction’,” David Del Terzo, James Dunne, Lawfare 
• “Experts assess Trump’s declaration of fentanyl as weapon of mass destruction,” Lev Facher, StatNews 
• “Fentanyl is no WMD, but Trump’s Venezuela claims eerily echo Bush’s arguments for invading Iraq,” Al Mauroni, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 
• “Canadian officials say US health institutions no longer dependable for accurate information,” Olivia Bowden, The Guardian 

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington, DC on March 10-11, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) 

From AAVN: “The African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) is a collaborative, career-development community for young professionals, students, and researchers from Africa (aged 18–35) who are working in, or passionate about, nuclear issues and related global security challenges such as artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and chemical & biological security. The Network empowers African young professionals to shape global conversations and ensures that Africa’s voice is amplified in nuclear and broader global security discourse.” 

Learn more and join the network here. 

CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative 

From the initiative: “Established in 2018, the CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative aims to encourage undergraduate women to consider careers in WMD nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament. As part of this initiative, we offer a mentorship program that enables undergraduate women to work directly with leading experts in their areas of professional interest.” 

Learn more and join the network here.   

Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly Call for Papers

“We are pleased to announce the launch of Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly, a new academic and trade journal dedicated to the intersection of cybersecurity and the bioeconomy. Published by Kansas State University’s New Prairie Press and sponsored by the Bioeconomy Information Sharing and Analysis Center (BIO-ISAC), this quarterly journal will serve as an important resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers working to safeguard digital and physical biological infrastructures. Cyberbiosecurity is an emerging discipline that addresses the protection of biomanufacturing, biomedical research, synthetic biology, digital agriculture, and other life sciences sectors from digital threats. This journal will explore topics at the nexus of cybersecurity, digital biosecurity, and the bioeconomy, including but not limited to:

• Best practices for network configuration and management in biomedical environments (ingress/egress protection, segmentation, isolation, access control, traffic protection, etc.)
• Cybersecurity Vendor Management and Assessment
• Cyber and Digital Biosecurity Education for the Bioeconomy’s Workforce
• The Quality-Cybersecurity Tension in Practice and Techniques for Mitigation
• Threat Intelligence for Cyber-Physical Biological Systems
• Regulatory and Policy Perspectives on Cyberbiosecurity
• Incident Response and Risk Mitigation in Biomanufacturing
• AI and Machine Learning in Digital and Cyber Biosecurity”

Learn more and submit your papers here.

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! ❄️  This issue highlights emerging global biosecurity and public health risks, including the latest developments in synthetic biology with the launch of IBBIS’ Global DNA Synthesis Map, the spread of avian influenza from vampire bats in Peru, and ongoing chemical weapons accountability in Syria and the U.K.  

From DNA Synthesis to Vaccines: Tracking Biosecurity and Public Health Risk Worldwide 

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

The International Biosecurity and Biosafety Initiative for Science (IBBIS) launched the Global DNA Synthesis Map on Tuesday, December 9 at the BWC Working Group event at the United Nations Office in Geneva. The map provides the first publicly available global overview of DNA synthesis providers, screening practices, regulatory frameworks and distribution channels, including third-party vendor networks. Data from over 1,000 companies across 81 countries reveal the world’s approaches to DNA synthesis, offering a critical evidence base for diplomats, policymakers, biosecurity professionals, and industry to inform decision-making, strengthen risk-mitigation strategies, and advance responsible innovation. 

Explore the map here.

Further Reading: 

• “Where lab-made DNA is created — and barely policed,” Shayna Korol, Vox 
• “AIxBio = Big Promise + New Risks,” Kaitlyn Gibbons, NTI 
• “GC Biopharma ships Korea’s first recombinant anthrax vaccine, boosts biodefense,” Yeom Hyun-a, Chosun Biz 
• “Use Cases for Emerging Technologies to Strengthen High-containment Laboratory Governance,” Miranda Smith, SIPRI
• “Guidance for Assessing Biosecurity and Biosafety Risks: For the Purpose of Reviewing Research Proposals Prior to Funding,” NTI 
• “Use all the tools of the trade: Building a foundation for the next era of biosecurity,” Steph Batalis, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 

Chemical & Biological Weapons Governance  

GMU’s Biodefense Director on Syria’s Unresolved Chemical Weapons Legacy  

In a December 9 article for the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, Gregory Koblentz – Associate Professor and Director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University warns that significant elements of Syria’s former chemical weapons (CWs) program remain unaccounted for more than a year after the fall of the Assad regime. Drawing on findings from the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Koblentz documents evidence of undeclared stockpiles, missing munitions, and unresolved discrepancies in Syria’s CW declarations. He highlights the persistent risk that residual chemical agents could fall into the hands of insurgent groups or be rediscovered amid ongoing instability. Koblentz argues that the United States and its allies must act urgently to accelerate inspections and complete destruction efforts in coordination with the OPCW, emphasizing that fully dismantling Syria’s chemical weapons is essential for regional stability and global chemical nonproliferation. Read more of the article here.  

International Law & Accountability 

A new working paper by Elisabeth Hoffberger-Pippan examines the role of national and international courts in enforcing prohibitions under the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). While both treaties provide formal mechanisms for accountability, these processes are often limited by political considerations, especially in times of geopolitical instability. Hoffberger-Pippan notes that the number of court cases addressing chemical and biological weapons (CBWs) has increased, but procedural restrictions in both national and international jurisdictions continue to impede effective enforcement of these prohibitions. The working paper is available for download here.  

Building on these legal frameworks, international efforts to strengthen the BWC are ongoing this week in Geneva, as state parties review the final report of the BWC Working Group. Daily updates from the meetings are being provided by the website, CBW Events, offering timely insights into negotiations, areas of agreement, and remaining points of contention among state parties. A consolidated collection of Richard Guthrie’s reporting on the BWC meetings is available online:  https://www.cbw-events.org.uk/bwc-rep.html 

Further Reading: 

•  “For Bioweapons Experts, Trump’s UN Speech Presents a Window of Opportunity,” Lucas Fluegel, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace 
• “European Union CBRN Centres of Excellence: United Arab Emirates Advances National Preparedness Against CBRN Crimes Through Table-Top Exercise,” UNICRI 

The U.K.: The Dawn Sturgess Inquiry and Chemical Weapons Accountability  

In the United Kingdom, the Dawn Sturgess Inquiry, launched in 2021 by the Home Secretary, continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the poisoning of Sturgess by a Russian nerve agent, Novichok, exposure near Salisbury in 2018. The death has been linked to the attempted assassination of former Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal. In a recent BBC News report, some are concluding that Russian President Vladimir Putin was “morally responsible” for Sturgess’s death, who was unknowingly exposed after handling a discarded perfume bottle containing the toxic nerve agent. While Moscow continues to deny involvement, the case has become a focal point in discussions over state responsibility and response, attribution, and the enforcement of prohibitions on chemical weapons.  

The U.S.: Intelligence Transparency on the Origins of COVID-19  

Parallel debates over transparency and attribution are unfolding in the U.S. as well. For years, many were interested to see what U.S. spy agencies really know about COVID-19’s origins, whether it was a natural spillover event or a so-called “lab leak.”  According to U.S. Right to Know, a provision included in the proposed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY2026 would require the Director of National Intelligence, in coordination with federal intelligence agencies, to review and work to declassify information related to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill – which is set for votes in the House and Senate this week – mandates greater intelligence about coronavirus research in Chinese labs, including what is known about risky “gain-of-function” research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), and Chinese government control over early pandemic information.  

Further Reading: 

• “The Married Scientists Torn Apart by a Covid Bioweapon Theory,” Katie J. M. Baker, NYTimes 

From Birds to Bats: Avian Flu Spreads Its Wings 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

The bird flu outbreak has expanded to include a new mammalian host. Vampire bats along Peru’s coast have tested positive for H5N1 antibodies, marking the first time these blood-feeding mammals have been confirmed as susceptible to the virus. 

In a new preprint study published on bioRxiv in nearly November, researchers revealed that over a dozen common vampire bats living along Peru’s Pacific coast carried antibodies against H5N1, indicating previous exposure to the avian influenza strain battering birds, livestock, and a variety of mammalian species around the globe. The bats likely contracted the virus while feeding on infected marine animals during a massive 2022-2023 outbreak that killed more than 560,000 seabirds and 10,000 sea lions in Peru alone. 

Wildlife veterinarian I-Ting Tu from the University of Glasgow led the research effort, collecting samples from hundreds of vampire bats across coastal and inland regions. The team discovered that coastal bats fed on a surprisingly diverse array of marine wildlife, including sea lions, pelicans, cormorants, and penguins, all potential sources of H5N1 exposure. These findings raise concerns that bats may serve as a bridge between marine and terrestrial mammals. Bats live in dense colonies where viruses can easily spread, thus they could potentially become a permanent reservoir for H5N1 more readily than other mammals. Bats are already notorious for harboring a plethora of zoonotic viruses including rabies virus and many coronaviruses. Some Peruvian vampire bats feed on both marine animals and livestock, creating potential pathways for the virus to spread into agricultural settings, evolve further, and potentially adapt to mammals including humans. 

Fortunately, researchers say it’s not yet time to panic. Only about 8% of individuals in any colony showed antibodies, suggesting H5N1 hasn’t established efficient bat-to-bat transmission. It is unclear why the infection has spread poorly among bats, as they appear to have the necessary receptors in their lungs for H5N1 to cling to. There doesn’t seem to be a real physiological barrier, and it may be that the virus is simply not yet optimized to sustain a chain of infection in bats. This means bats are unlikely to become a permanent viral reservoir, at least for now; however, repeated spillover between marine mammals, livestock, and bats could create a pathway for the virus to acquire new traits, establish itself in new hosts, and potentially become more deadly or contagious. Researchers stress the need for continued surveillance, particularly at sites where bats interact with both marine wildlife and domestic animals. 

Further Reading: 

• “New avian flu outbreaks reported in 5 states,” Chris Dall, CIDRAP 
• “Iowa study: Bird flu could spread to more species and humans via raw milk,” Jason Clayworth, Axios 
• “EU launches ‘pre-pandemic’ plan to stop bird flu jumping to humans,” Maeve Cullinan, The Telegraph 
• “Bird flu hasn’t reached Australia, but researchers are prepping for when it arrives,” Gabrielle Emanuel, NPR 

Vaccines Under Scrutiny: Domestic Policy Changes and Global Gaps  

ACIP Vaccine Rollback Sparks Safety Concern in the U.S. 

From Health Policy Watch: “A U.S. vaccine advisory panel, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), has voted to eliminate a 30-year recommendation that all newborns in the U.S. receive the hepatitis B (Hep B) vaccine at birth, stating the shot is no longer necessary for babies born to mothers who test negative for the virus. Instead, ACIP recommends delaying the first dose to no earlier than two months and consulting with a doctor.”  

Medical experts have raised concerns about the decision. Organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics argue that the decision lacks sufficient implementation research to ensure safety. Without further research, there is a risk that Hep B could still be transmitted from asymptomatic mothers to newborns at birth. “We should do the studies first to determine if fewer doses are actually effective,” said Dr Judith Shlay, a family medicine specialist. The recommendation must now be approved by Jim O’Neil, the acting director of the CDC.  

Further Reading:

• “RFK Jr.’s vaccine panel is laying the groundwork for more scrutiny of childhood shots,” Daniel Payne and Chelsea Cirruzzo, StatNews
• “CDC adviser: Newborn vaccine rollback ‘wasn’t based on data’,” Tara Suter, The Hill 
• “Hepatitis B vaccine guidance set to be rolled back for US babies: what the science says,” Mariana Lenharo and Heidi Ledford, Nature  

Global Polio Eradication Faces Funding Shortfalls  

Meanwhile, on the global stage, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has received $1.9 billion in pledges from international donors to advance polio eradication. Contributions came from a diverse group of donors and countries, including $1.2 billion from the Gates Foundation, $140 million from the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, and $450 million from Rotary International. Despite these commitments, a significant funding gap of approximately $440 million remains for GPEI’s 2022-2029 Strategy, following reductions in foreign aid from high-income countries.  

This private-public partnership (PPP) aims to eradicate polio worldwide by 2029, using the funds to vaccinate 370 million children against polio each year while strengthening regional health systems. However, the outlook is uncertain: the U.K., Germany, and other countries have scaled back plans for development assistance and health funding for 2026, and U.S. support for polio efforts remains unclear. As a result, GPEI anticipates cutting its budget by 30% next year due to the global retreat in foreign aid.  

Further Reading:

• “HHS Provides Doses of Investigational Vaccine, Therapeutic to Ethiopia to Address Current Outbreak of Marburg Virus,” ASPR 
• “The fight to beat neglected tropical diseases was going well. 2025 could change that,” Jonathan Lambert, NPR 
• “US and Kenya sign first of what are expected to be dozens of ‘America First’ global health deals,” Matthew Lee and Gerald Imray, AP News 
• “Kenya signs landmark health deal with US despite data fears,” Wycliffe Muia, BBC 

In Other News  

US Science Governance 

• “Trump has ‘shaken the hell’ out of the 80-year research pact between the government and universities. What now?” Megan Molteni, Anil Oza, and J. Emory Parker, StatNews  
• “New NIH Policies Make It Easier to End Grants, Ignore Peer Review,” Kristina Flore, MedPage Today 
• “American Science, Shattered,” StatNews  
• “I Left the CDC 100 Days Ago. My Worst Fears About the Agency Are Coming True,” Debra Houry, Time 
• “Pazdur’s Sudden Exit Leaves Just Three Veterans in FDA’s Senior Ranks,” Jef Akst, BioSpace 
• “A Threat to Evidence-Based Vaccine Policy and Public Health Security at the FDA,” Califf et al., NEJM 

NEW: International Conference CBRNe Research & Innovation  

From CBRNE: “The last 40 years have demonstrated that both military and civilian populations could be exposed to highly hazardous CBRNE agents following conflicts, natural outbreaks and disasters, industrial incidents or terrorist attacks. Worldwide, researchers, responders and industrial capacities have been commited to provide adapted response to these challenges. The CBRNE Research & Innovation Conference includes workshops and demonstrations of innovative materials, technologies and procedures, according to the following themes: Detection (identification), Protection (decontamination, medical countermeasures), and risk & crisis management.  

This event will take place in Arcachon, France from May 19 – 21, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here. 

NIH and its Partners to Co-Host a Second Regional Listening Session on Efforts to Modernize and Strengthen Biosafety Oversight 

From ABSA International: “The NIH, the Carolinas Biosafety Safety Association, and the Southeastern Biological Safety Association will be co-hosting a virtual listening session to obtain input from stakeholders on NIH’s recently announced initiative to modernize and strengthen biosafety oversight.” 

This event will take place virtually on December 17 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington DC on March 10-11, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) 

From AAVN: “The African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) is a collaborative, career-development community for young professionals, students, and researchers from Africa (aged 18–35) who are working in, or passionate about, nuclear issues and related global security challenges such as artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and chemical & biological security. The Network empowers African young professionals to shape global conversations and ensures that Africa’s voice is amplified in nuclear and broader global security discourse.” 

Learn more and join the network here. 

CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative 

From the initiative: “Established in 2018, the CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative aims to encourage undergraduate women to consider careers in WMD nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament. As part of this initiative, we offer a mentorship program that enables undergraduate women to work directly with leading experts in their areas of professional interest.” 

Learn more and join the network here.   

Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly Call for Papers

“We are pleased to announce the launch of Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly, a new academic and trade journal dedicated to the intersection of cybersecurity and the bioeconomy. Published by Kansas State University’s New Prairie Press and sponsored by the Bioeconomy Information Sharing and Analysis Center (BIO-ISAC), this quarterly journal will serve as an important resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers working to safeguard digital and physical biological infrastructures. Cyberbiosecurity is an emerging discipline that addresses the protection of biomanufacturing, biomedical research, synthetic biology, digital agriculture, and other life sciences sectors from digital threats. This journal will explore topics at the nexus of cybersecurity, digital biosecurity, and the bioeconomy, including but not limited to:

• Best practices for network configuration and management in biomedical environments (ingress/egress protection, segmentation, isolation, access control, traffic protection, etc.)
• Cybersecurity Vendor Management and Assessment
• Cyber and Digital Biosecurity Education for the Bioeconomy’s Workforce
• The Quality-Cybersecurity Tension in Practice and Techniques for Mitigation
• Threat Intelligence for Cyber-Physical Biological Systems
• Regulatory and Policy Perspectives on Cyberbiosecurity
• Incident Response and Risk Mitigation in Biomanufacturing
• AI and Machine Learning in Digital and Cyber Biosecurity”

Learn more and submit your papers here.

Call for Presenters: International Bio Recovery Summit

The American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA) has opened its Call for Presenters for the 2026 International Bio Recovery Summit, taking place March 16-18 in Aberdeen, Maryland. As the industry’s leading event, the summit brings together bio-recovery professionals to address emerging challenges, regulatory updates, new technologies, and evolving safety standards in the field. ABRA invites experts to submit proposals aligned with conference objectives – including discussions on industry guidelines, insurance claims, hazardous substances, and business practices.

Learn more and submit your presentation by December 31 here.

64th ISODARCO Course

From ISODARCO: “In recent years, the global security landscape has become increasingly volatile, shaped by a convergence of geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and evolving nuclear doctrines. The post-Cold War order that once provided a measure of predictability in global security has eroded. Conflicts such as the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, and strategic competition between major powers have reshaped alliances and strategic postures.”

“At the same time, disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hypersonic missiles, and cyber threats – are adding new layers of complexity to both nuclear and conventional deterrence dynamics. These technologies are not only distorting the information landscape but also compressing decision-making timelines and complicating signaling mechanisms, increasing the risk of miscalculation.”

“Effectively managing nuclear escalation risks in this environment will require a combination of innovative diplomacy, technological safeguards, and renewed dialogue mechanisms to rebuild trust, reduce misperceptions, and stabilize strategic relations.”

“The ISODARCO 2026 Winter Course presents an invaluable opportunity for students and experts to discuss and examine these dynamics in depth and explore approaches to re-establishing strategic stability and reducing nuclear dangers in a volatile world.”

This course will take place January 11-18, 2026, in Andalo. Learn more and apply here.

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! ❄️ This issue features a deep dive into U.S. biodefense vulnerabilities, the latest developments in Avian Influenza, emerging biosecurity risks from synthetic biology, and global public health and chemical weapons updates.  

U.S. Biodefense on the Brink: Political Interference and Budget Cuts Put Americans at Risk 

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

A series of alarming developments across the U.S. biodefense complex show that political interference and institutional downsizing are creating vulnerable gaps in emergency response and readiness that could imperil Americans during the next major biological emergency. On November 23, Dr. Ralph Abraham, Louisiana’s Surgeon General, who’s also a vocal supporter of HHS Secretary RFK Jr., and a known vaccine skeptic, was appointed Principal Deputy Director at the CDC. Abraham has publicly questioned the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, opposed routine immunization for hepatitis B at birth, and supported discredited theories linking Tylenol use in pregnancy to autism.  

This trend of politicization is compounded by troubling shifts in agency guidance. Under Secretary RFK Jr.’s leadership, the CDC revised its longstanding position that vaccines do not cause autism, adding an asterisk to its guidance suggesting that evidence debunking the vaccine-autism link is “not evidence-based.” This shift contradicts decades of rigorous research demonstrating no causal link between vaccines and autism and was pushed through despite numerous objections from scientific organizations. The Autism Science Foundation and the American Medical Association condemned the change, calling it appalling and warning of its dangerous consequences.  

The FDA is also experiencing internal turmoil. A 3,000-word memo circulated by vaccine division director, Dr. Vinay Prasad, claimed that COVID-19 vaccines had killed at least 10 children. The findings have not been published in a peer-reviewed medical journal, and experts reviewing the memo note that it misuses information from VAERS, an unverified reporting system in which anyone – including patients, caregivers, and clinicians – can submit reports of adverse events related to vaccines. VAERS itself warns that its reports may contain inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable information.  Experts contend that the memo misrepresents the data and reflects an ideologically driven approach that undermines both public confidence and the FDA’s regulatory authority.  

“This memo conveys a very troubling mixture of misrepresentation and lies,” said Dr. Peter Marks, former FDA vaccine chief who was ousted by HHS Secretary RFK Jr. earlier this year. “The climate within the agency is incredibly toxic right now.” 

Structural cuts to U.S. science and public health agencies further threaten national preparedness for biological events. The second Trump administration’s budget reductions have began to eliminate essential biodefense programs, resulting in billions of dollars in lost funding, the elimination of tens of thousands of positions, and the dismantling of surveillance and R&D programs across key agencies such as the NIH, CDC, USAID, FDA, ASPR, NSF, and FEMA. Some of these agencies operate within HHS: the CDC leads domestic and global disease surveillance and emergency response, the NIH supports basic and applied biomedical research, the FDA regulates vaccines and medicines, the ASPR coordinates public health emergency responses, and separately, the NSF funds foundational biology research essential for understanding biological threats.  

The HHS reorganization has resulted in staffing that is slated to decline from 82,000 to 62,000 full-time employees, with significant cuts at the CDC, NIH, and the FDA, alongside a 35% reduction in contracts. BARDA, a key agency for developing medical countermeasures for emerging infectious diseases, was merged with ARPA-H, and hundreds of leases for research and operational facilities were terminated. By May of this year, NSF cancelled over 1,500 active research grants and laid off 25-50% of its workforce. In response, sixteen states, led by New York, sued the Trump administration to block NSF funding cuts. 

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), launched by Elon Musk, reported that the administration terminated 563 leases worth $262 million for facilities used by federal agencies, including NIH and CDC. Experts warn that these cuts not only limit immediate operational capacity but could also create long-term gaps in institutional knowledge and disrupt the talent pipeline, hindering the overall effectiveness and efficiency of these agencies.  

Federal funding cuts are also destabilizing state and local health efforts. Many rely on federal pass-through funding, and without these, face staff layoffs, clinic closures, and halted preparedness programs. In March, HHS announced plans to reclaim $11.4 billion in COVID-19 response funding, raising alarms among public health officials. Although states like California are attempting their own countermeasures via a currently debated $23 billion bond initiative to restore R&D cuts, the ability of state and local governments to fully offset these federal gaps is limited, undermining U.S. biological readiness writ large.   

“Let’s be clear—when the next pandemic from an infectious agent breaks, if this budget passes, we will be largely unprepared, and needless deaths will happen,” Dr. Mary Pittman, former president and CEO of the Public Health Institute, said in a release from the American Public Health Association. “The CDC will be late detecting, tracking, and responding to it, and the states will not have the resources to do it at the state level. Time to action is everything in an outbreak of disease.” 

Further Reading:  

• “NIH shake-up to grant decision-making sparks concern over political meddling,” Jocelyn Kaiser, Science 
• “The U.S. Is Funding Fewer Grants in Every Area of Science and Medicine,” Aatish Bhatia, Amy Fan, Jonah Smith and Irena Hwang, NY Times 
• “New NSCEB Paper Envisions the Future of Science, Modernizing the U.S. Scientific Enterprise,” NSCEB 
• “The US has released an ‘America First Global Health Strategy.’ Health experts warn it is risky,” Lauren Kent, Jennifer Hansler, CNN 
• “The United States Maintains Its Global Fund Commitment,” Prashant Yadav and Elena Every, ThinkGlobalHealth 
• “US CDC: a public health agency in critical condition,” Debra Houry, Daniel Jernigan, and Demetre Daskalakis, The Lancet 
• “Federal biotech commission calls for retooling of scientific research infrastructure,” Allison DeAngelis, StatNews 
• “F.D.A. Seeks More Oversight of Vaccine Trials and Approvals,” Christina Jewett, NYTimes 

Washington State Reports First H5N5 Human Death 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

Washington State health officials confirmed the first U.S. human death from H5N5 bird flu in late November, marking a significant development in the ongoing international avian influenza outbreak. However, unlike the H5N1 virus that has caused 70 human infections and one death in the United States since 2024, this fatality was caused by H5N5, a different strain of avian influenza that had previously never been known to infect humans. There is limited information about the patient in Washington at this time. They were identified as an older adult with underlying health conditions who kept backyard poultry with exposure to wild birds. 

Health experts stress this isn’t cause for panic. There is as of yet no evidence that H5N5 poses greater pandemic risk than H5N1 or causes more severe disease. Monitoring of close contacts revealed no additional infections and no signs of person-to-person transmission. Although this was the first case of H5N5 infection in a human, experts state that exposure to H5 viruses and subsequent infections are still likely to be H5N1 as this strain is circulating much more prevalently in bird populations.   

For people with backyard chickens, experts recommend keeping domestic birds separated from wild birds, wearing dedicated outdoor clothing and protective gear when cleaning coops, and thoroughly washing hands after handling poultry or eggs to minimize risk of exposure.  

Too Hot to Handle: Research Identifies Temperature Resistance in Bird Flu Viruses 

Recent research published in Science indicates that avian influenza may pose a unique danger compared to human flu viruses: bird flu viruses can replicate at temperatures higher than typical human fevers, potentially overcoming one of our key defense mechanisms. 

Researchers at the universities of Cambridge and Glasgow showed that a gene called PB1 plays a key role in viral temperature sensitivity. Human flu viruses typically thrive in the upper respiratory tract where temperatures are around 33C rather than in the lungs and lower airways where the temperature is closer to 37C. Fevers, one of the human body’s self-defense mechanisms, raise our body temperature to 38-41C, and even just a 2C increase can turn lethal human flu infections into mild disease. However, avian influenza viruses thrive in hotter environments as they often infect the gut in natural bird hosts where temperatures can reach as high as 40-42C. The research showed that virus strains containing avian-like PB1 genes can withstand high temperatures and cause severe disease in mice with simulated fevers that would ordinarily be sufficient to curb replication of temperature-sensitive flu viruses. This suggests that human infection with temperature-resistant flu viruses will cause more severe disease despite our defense mechanisms. Even more worryingly, human and bird flu viruses can swap genes when co-infecting the same host, as happened during the deadly 1957 and 1968 pandemics. These findings could have significant implications for clinical decision-making on when and how to use medications to control fever in suspected avian influenza cases and could also help explain why some influenza outbreaks cause more severe disease.  

Although the public health risk from avian influenza remains low, with no sustained human-to-human transmission observed, public health experts stress that getting a seasonal flu shot is more important than ever. While the vaccine may not protect against bird flu infection directly, it reduces the chance of simultaneous infections that could enable dangerous viral mixing and swapping of temperature-resistance genes between human and avian influenza viruses.  

Further Reading:

•  “Bird Flu Vaccine Trial Offers Hope for Protecting Hawaiian Monk Seals,” The Marine Mammal Center 
• “Bird flu virus could risk pandemic worse than COVID if it mutates, France’s Institut Pasteur says,” Sybille de La Hamaide, Reuters 
• “As bird flu spreads near London, a breakdown of CFIA’s response,” Brian Williams, The London Free Press 
• “Wild birds are driving the current U.S. bird flu outbreak,” Lambodhar Damodaran and Anna S. Jaeger, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine 

“Regulatory Gaps in Benchtop Nucleic Acid Synthesis Create Biosecurity Vulnerabilities” 

Lena Kroepke, a current Biodefense Master’s student at George Mason University, warns that rapid advances in benchtop nucleic acid synthesis and AI-enabled biological design are outpacing existing oversight, leaving the U.S. with widening biosecurity vulnerabilities. Her new article outlines how decentralized benchtop printers, increasingly capable of producing longer DNA sequences, combined with AI tools that can engineer novel or de novo pathogens, bypass traditional sequence-based screening systems and undermine voluntary industry standards. Despite this rising risk, federal regulation remains fragmented: the Biden administration’s 2024 Framework for Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening was left in limbo after being placed under review by President Donald Trump’s May 2025 “Improving Safety and Security of Biological Research” Executive Order, and Congress has failed to advance legislation mandating universal screening or device security. As a result, most safeguards are still voluntary, export controls are inconsistently enforced, and no binding national or international standards exist for device certification, customer screening, or tracking printed sequences. Kroepke argues that without urgent, mandatory, and transparent regulatory updates—paired with stronger BWC-level engagement—the proliferation of benchtop synthesis technology could significantly elevate global biosecurity threats. Read more here. 

“Strategies to Improve Detection of Novel Pandemic Pathogens” 

From RAND Corporation: “This research report provides insight into the tradeoffs inherent to the cost, design, and detection performance of three promising pathogen-agnostic biosurveillance strategies, referred to as Syndromic, Wearable, and Environmental. The Syndromic and Wearable strategies are initiated by a signal from symptomatic or physiological sensors, while the Environmental strategy runs continuously and is intensified responsively based on external intelligence from event-based surveillance. First, we parameterize this model to emulate the detection of wildtype SARS-CoV-2. Then, we explore how changes in pathogen characteristics and technology performance change key detection and cost measures.  Heir modeling indicates that environmental sampling (e.g., wastewater, air, surfaces) detects outbreaks fastest, followed by wearable strategy. Syndromic surveillance underperforms in detection relative to the two other strategies, especially when outbreaks stem from new or unusual pathogens.” Read more here. 

China Releases White Paper on Arms Control in New Era

In November 2025, China released a new white paper on arms control, disarmament, and nonproliferation, as well as its position on security governance in fields such as outer space, cyberspace, and artificial intelligence (AI). In the document, Beijing reaffirms that it remains committed to international frameworks banning weapons of mass destruction, explicitly including biological – and not only nuclear or conventional – threats. According to the white paper, China “resolutely opposes the proliferation of bioweapons, their means of delivery, and all related technologies,” and reaffirms it adherence to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). The government states it continues to strengthen domestic biosecurity institutions and export-control regimes over dual-use biological items, and advocates for a negotiated protocol to enhance the BWC’s verification mechanisms – recognizing the existing non-proliferation frameworks must evolve alongside developments in biotechnology. Read more here.  

Further Reading: 

• “Tracing engineered biothreats with AI forensics: Five steps to improve attribution,” Oliver M. Crook, Anemone Franz, Aaron Maiwald, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists 
• “Frontiers in medical countermeasures against CBRN agents,” Dan Kaszeta, ESD 
• “Mapping the Informal Bioeconomy,” RAND 

In Other News  

Changing HIV/AIDS Landscape  

On December 1, we want to commemorate World AIDS Day 2025! #WorldAIDSDay  

• “Aid cuts have shaken HIV/Aids care to its core – and will mean millions more infections ahead,” Kat Lay, The Guardian 
• “New prevention tools and investment in services essential in the fight against AIDS,” WHO 
• “OVERCOMING DISRUPTION Transforming the AIDS response,” UNAIDS 
• “Presidential HIV council warns proposed cuts could reverse decades of progress,” Beatrice Peterson, ABC News 
• “Trump Administration Will No Longer Commemorate World AIDS Day,” Apoorva Mandavilli, NY Times 

Global Infectious Disease  

• “Ebola outbreak in Congo over, Congolese health officials and WHO say,” Reuters 
• “Long COVID takes $1 trillion global economic toll each year, analysis suggests,” Laine Bergeson, CIDRAP 
• “Strategic plan for coronavirus disease threat management: advancing integration, sustainability, and equity, 2025–2030,” WHO 

Chemical Weapons: Global Developments and Investigations 

• 2025 OPCW-The Hague Award recipients announced  
• “Ukraine elected to OPCW Executive Council, Russia fails again,” UkrinForm 
• “Syrian Civil Society Recommendations to the Syrian Government, the National Commission for Transitional Justice, and State Parties to the OPCW,” SNHR 
• “Exclusive: The first proof of the use of chemical weapons in Sudan’s civil war,” France24 
• “How did chlorine imported to Sudan for water purification end up being used as a poison gas?” France24 
• “When Water Burns – BBC Eye investigates potential use of World War One chemical against anti-government demonstrators in Georgia,” BBC 

NEW: Integrating Biosafety & Biosecurity into Funding Decisions 

Form NTI: Funders play a key role in shaping how life science research is conducted. This webinar will introduce a new framework—developed collaboratively by a diverse group of internationally recognized experts—to help funders identify proposals that may require additional biosafety or biosecurity review and to support appropriate risk-mitigation efforts.” 

This event will take place virtually on December 11 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM ET. Learn more and RSVP here.  

NEW: Africa’s Children’s Hospitals at a Breaking Point – Virtual Event 

From Brown University: A landmark, first-of-its-kind study published last month in PLOS Global Public Health delivers a stark reality check: children’s hospitals in Africa are stretched, strained, and often cannot meet patients’ needs. The Children’s Hospitals in Africa Mapping Project (CHAMP) study aimed to evaluate hospital facilities, infrastructure, equipment, supplies, services, staffing, and readiness to care for children amid public health emergencies through surveys, which 20 hospitals from 15 countries completed from 2018 to 2019. The study found that “most hospitals were ill-prepared to manage a major disaster or infectious disease outbreak.” The CHAMP study is a wake up call to health leaders and decision makers. Among the CHAMP study’s takeaways: 

This event will take place virtually on December 12 at 12:00 PM ET. Learn more and RSVP here. 

NEW: NIH and its Partners to Co-Host a Second Regional Listening Session on Efforts to Modernize and Strengthen Biosafety Oversight 

From ABSA International: “The NIH, the Carolinas Biosafety Safety Association, and the Southeastern Biological Safety Association will be co-hosting a virtual listening session to obtain input from stakeholders on NIH’s recently announced initiative to modernize and strengthen biosafety oversight.” 

This event will take place virtually on December 17 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM ET. Learn more and register here. 

NEW: Nexus Series: AIxBio: Workshop 2 – Strategies for Responding to Exponential AI and Biotechnology Growth  

From AI for SynBio: “Background: The ever-increasing acceleration of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) and biological design tools has transformed the technological landscape, enabling tremendous benefits and potential misuse that could massively impact national security and public health. Mitigating this risk will require collaboration across Government, Industry, and Academia with both technical and policy focus. Significant effort has already been made to raise awareness of this challenge, but additional discussion is necessary to maintain pace with the speed of evolving technology. The second workshop in this series will build upon insights from our first workshop and take place over two days.” 

This event will take place in Washington DC on March 10-11, 2026. Learn more and RSVP here.  

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) 

From AAVN: “The African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) is a collaborative, career-development community for young professionals, students, and researchers from Africa (aged 18–35) who are working in, or passionate about, nuclear issues and related global security challenges such as artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and chemical & biological security. The Network empowers African young professionals to shape global conversations and ensures that Africa’s voice is amplified in nuclear and broader global security discourse.” 

Learn more and join the network here. 

CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative 

From the initiative: “Established in 2018, the CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative aims to encourage undergraduate women to consider careers in WMD nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament. As part of this initiative, we offer a mentorship program that enables undergraduate women to work directly with leading experts in their areas of professional interest.” 

Learn more and join the network here.   

Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly Call for Papers

“We are pleased to announce the launch of Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly, a new academic and trade journal dedicated to the intersection of cybersecurity and the bioeconomy. Published by Kansas State University’s New Prairie Press and sponsored by the Bioeconomy Information Sharing and Analysis Center (BIO-ISAC), this quarterly journal will serve as an important resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers working to safeguard digital and physical biological infrastructures. Cyberbiosecurity is an emerging discipline that addresses the protection of biomanufacturing, biomedical research, synthetic biology, digital agriculture, and other life sciences sectors from digital threats. This journal will explore topics at the nexus of cybersecurity, digital biosecurity, and the bioeconomy, including but not limited to:

• Best practices for network configuration and management in biomedical environments (ingress/egress protection, segmentation, isolation, access control, traffic protection, etc.)
• Cybersecurity Vendor Management and Assessment
• Cyber and Digital Biosecurity Education for the Bioeconomy’s Workforce
• The Quality-Cybersecurity Tension in Practice and Techniques for Mitigation
• Threat Intelligence for Cyber-Physical Biological Systems
• Regulatory and Policy Perspectives on Cyberbiosecurity
• Incident Response and Risk Mitigation in Biomanufacturing
• AI and Machine Learning in Digital and Cyber Biosecurity”

Learn more and submit your papers here.

Call for Presenters: International Bio Recovery Summit

The American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA) has opened its Call for Presenters for the 2026 International Bio Recovery Summit, taking place March 16-18 in Aberdeen, Maryland. As the industry’s leading event, the summit brings together bio-recovery professionals to address emerging challenges, regulatory updates, new technologies, and evolving safety standards in the field. ABRA invites experts to submit proposals aligned with conference objectives – including discussions on industry guidelines, insurance claims, hazardous substances, and business practices.

Learn more and submit your presentation by December 31 here.

64th ISODARCO Course

From ISODARCO: “In recent years, the global security landscape has become increasingly volatile, shaped by a convergence of geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and evolving nuclear doctrines. The post-Cold War order that once provided a measure of predictability in global security has eroded. Conflicts such as the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, and strategic competition between major powers have reshaped alliances and strategic postures.”

“At the same time, disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hypersonic missiles, and cyber threats – are adding new layers of complexity to both nuclear and conventional deterrence dynamics. These technologies are not only distorting the information landscape but also compressing decision-making timelines and complicating signaling mechanisms, increasing the risk of miscalculation.”

“Effectively managing nuclear escalation risks in this environment will require a combination of innovative diplomacy, technological safeguards, and renewed dialogue mechanisms to rebuild trust, reduce misperceptions, and stabilize strategic relations.”

“The ISODARCO 2026 Winter Course presents an invaluable opportunity for students and experts to discuss and examine these dynamics in depth and explore approaches to re-establishing strategic stability and reducing nuclear dangers in a volatile world.”

This course will take place January 11-18, 2026, in Andalo. Learn more and apply here.

Welcome to this week’s Pandora Report! 🍂 This issue features declining U.S. vaccination rates and early signs of a challenging flu season to the first human case of H5N5 avian influenza in Washington. We also cover international efforts to strengthen nucleic acid synthesis screening, debates over U.S. pandemic preparedness strategies, and insights from a new review of a state-level bioweapons programs in Russia and Iraq. 

Important Note: The Pandora Report will be on break next week for Thanksgiving – wishing all our readers a happy and safe holiday ahead! 🍁🦃  

Trust in U.S. Vaccines Falters as Measles and Flu Threaten a Harsh Winter Ahead 

By Carmen Shaw, Co-Managing Editor of the Pandora Report 

A series of developments this week suggests that the U.S. immunization landscape may be rapidly destabilizing. The CDC quietly revised its Autism and Vaccines webpage, softening language that previously stated that there is no link between vaccines and autism – despite decades of high-quality research debunking such claims. The shift has alarmed experts, who say it reflects what happens when politics hijack public health, further undermining trust in the agency. Others warn that any ambiguity on settled science risks renewed outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in society. For many, the concern is not merely the change in wording but the broader signal it sends: federal health guidance is becoming less reliable and consistent at a moment when clarity is desperately needed.  

 
This confusion is reflected in divergent vaccination behavior across the nation. Only 23% of U.S. adults have received this season’s COVID-19 vaccine, a dramatic drop from early pandemic levels (in early 2022, 75% of Americans had received at least one dose of the initial vaccine). The vaccination rates for flu, measles, and tetanus are also declining. Uptake varies sharply by region: the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates are found in the Northeast, including D.C., Vermont, Massachusetts, and Minnesota, while the lowest rates are observed in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Public health researchers worry that vaccination rates may decline further, particularly among younger adults and Hispanic and Black Americans, who have lower vaccination rates, further exposing them to serious complications such as long COVID. These ongoing mixed messages from federal leadership and new access barriers in some Republican-led states are creating a fragmented and unpredictable vaccination environment. Although COVID may no longer dominate headlines as it once did, it still claimed more than 31,000 U.S. lives last year.  

The consequences of declining trust in vaccines are already visible. A measles strain that ignited a major outbreak in the Southwest has now spread across the country, leading to 1,753 confirmed cases as of November 18 – more than six times the total reported in 2024, according to the CDC. Nearly all infections (92%) occur among people who are either unvaccinated or of unknown vaccination status. If transmission isn’t controlled soon, the United States is on track to lose its measles elimination status, mirror Canada’s recent loss of the designation just some days ago. Health officials frame the current moment bluntly: pockets of low vaccination are creating openings for opportunistic diseases Americans once assumed were gone.  

These vulnerabilities are emerging just as the U.S. faces the prospect of a challenging flu season ahead. A mutated influenza strain, subclade K, is already driving early surges in the UK and Canada. U.S. scientists warn that this winter could bring a second consecutive severe flu season – last winter saw the highest rates of flu hospitalization in nearly 15 years, with at least 280 children dying from influenza, the highest pediatric death toll recorded since 2004. Now, with the new variant circulating, vaccination rates down, and holiday travel approaching, experts warn that a grim repeat is likely.  

“The signs are, it could be a big season,” says Richard Webby, who studies the flu at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. “The flu season might have a little bit of a punch to it this year.” 

A new Pew Research Center poll adds another layer: while most Americans still believe childhood vaccines work in preventing serious illnesses, confidence among Republican voters continues to erode. As trust fractures along political lines, the nation’s ability to maintain stable immunization coverage becomes increasingly fragile.  

Further Reading:  

• “Trump and RFK Jr. are mulling their most disruptive vaccine policies yet — alarming manufacturers,” Daniel Payne, StatNews 
• “How RFK Jr., America’s celebrity health secretary, is steamrolling,” Chelsea Cirruzzo, Casey Ross, and Sarah Todd, StatNews  
• “Trump slashed spending on clinical trials. The toll is starting to become clear,” Allyson Chiu, Washington Post 

Spotlight: Improving Pandemic Readiness with Michael Osterholm and GMU’s Gregory Koblentz – A Podcast 

re we ready for the next pandemic? In Improving Pandemic Readiness, David Ramadan and guest co-host Gregory Koblentz, Director of GMU’s Biodefense Graduate Program, sit down alongside renowned epidemiologist Michael Osterholm, Director of CIDRAP and author of The Big One: How We Must Prepare for Future Deadly Pandemics. They discuss lessons learned from the COVID-19 response, including challenges with vaccine distribution and lockdown measures, and explore how young people can combat the pervasive spread of misinformation and disinformation. 

Listen to the podcast here. 

First Human Case of H5N5 Confirmed in Washington 

By Margeaux Malone, Pandora Report Associate Editor 

On November 14, Washington state health officials confirmed the first human case of H5N5 avian influenza in the United States, also marking the country’s first human bird flu case since February. The patient, reportedly an older adult with underlying health conditions, remains hospitalized after developing severe symptoms including high fever, confusion, and respiratory distress in early November. This represents the first known human infection with the H5N5 strain, distinct from the H5N1 strain that has affected thousands of cattle and poultry operations in recent months.  

Investigators believe the patient was exposed through a mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry that had contact with wild birds. Health officials are monitoring close contacts but have identified no additional cases and do not believe there is yet increased risk to the public. Human-to-human transmission of avian flu has never been documented in the United States; however, the CDC continues to urge anyone who works with or may come into contact with potentially infected domestic or wild animals to take precautions including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and reporting sick or dead birds to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. Although the majority of the confirmed U.S. human H5N1 cases have been mild, one Louisiana man died in January following infection with bird flu. 

ProPublica Investigation Questions USDA’s Approach to Farm Outbreaks 

A recently published ProPublica investigation has raised questions about the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) response strategy to bird flu, including the agency’s decision not to investigate potential airborne spread and its reluctance to authorize poultry vaccines despite calls from public health experts and the egg industry. The investigation examined a devastating bird flu outbreak last winter that began at a single Ohio facility and then spread to nearby farms, ultimately affecting over 20 million hens across 83 farms. Using genetic analysis, weather data, and wind simulations, ProPublica found that wind may be a plausible explanation for how the bird flu virus spreads between farms, as those downwind from the initial outbreak site were approximately 20 times more likely to develop infections.  

The USDA has not investigated airborne transmission in this outbreak, garnering criticism from public health experts and industry leaders who argue that the current focus on wild birds and biosecurity alone has been insufficient to control the disease in light of the continuing bird flu outbreaks across the country. The investigation highlights that other countries have taken different approaches after documenting airborne spread through contaminated dust and feathers. For instance, France implemented poultry vaccination programs in 2023 following research showing the virus could travel on aerosols, leading to a near-total reduction in duck farm cases. 

As the outbreak surges on into the fall migration season, public health experts and egg industry representatives urge the USDA to authorize poultry vaccines against avian influenza in the United States as well. Following a study showing the efficacy of poultry vaccines published in 2023, the USDA licensed a chicken vaccine against avian influenza developed by Zoetis in early 2025, raising hopes that nationwide vaccination programs may soon follow. However, U.S. vaccination efforts in poultry continue to face significant opposition from the chicken meat industry, which has been far less affected by bird flu but holds greater sway over the industry as a whole. These producers warn that vaccinating even egg-laying hens could trigger import bans from international trading partners. After France began its vaccination program, the United States paused all poultry imports from the European Union, citing worries that vaccines could mask infections by preventing symptomatic illness in birds. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has stated that vaccine deployment is “at least a year or more away,” given concerns about “repercussions that we don’t fully understand.”  

While the USDA appears to be committed to improving poultry farm biosecurity, pledging up to $500 million for farm audits and inspections, some experts told ProPublica they believe government leaders are stalling, hoping the virus will fizzle out on its own, just as it did a decade ago during the 2014-2015 H5N2 outbreak. Unfortunately, with 83 confirmed infected flocks in the last 30 days, more than double the number this time last year, the outbreak does not look like it will be slowing down any time soon.  

Further Reading: 

• “Rare Bird Flu Strain Detected in Washington State Resident,” Mandy Taheri, Newsweek 
• “The Expected Cost of Your Thanksgiving Turkey in 2025,” Caitlinn Hubbell and Elijah Bryant, Purdue University College of Agriculture 
• “Avian flu has decimated world’s largest breeding colony of southern elephant seals,” Mary Van Beusekom, CIDRAP 
• “H5N1 bird flu cases are on the rise in Europe. How concerned should you be?” Ignacio López-Goñi, The Independent 
• “Avian Influenza Fast Facts,” CNN Health  

Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening in Singapore 

The Biodefense Graduate Program was out in force at a workshop held by the Engineering Biology Research Consortium (EBRC) in Singapore on November 4-5, 2025 to develop international best practices for screening sequences and customers to strengthen biosecurity. The goal of the workshop, one in a series being held by EBRC, is to build international consensus on best practices for the nucleic acid synthesis industry, focusing particularly on customer and sequence screening methods, and establish an informal global consortium of stakeholders representing industry, government, academia, and non-profit sector to advance the adoption and implementation of robust screening methods. Biodefense Program Director Dr. Gregory D. Koblentz, who is a member of EBRC’s Security Working Group, served as the discussant on a panel regarding the challenges and opportunities for achieving universal, aligned nucleic acid screening policy and practices. Dr. Koblentz highlighted weaknesses in both multilateral and national approaches to nucleic acid synthesis screening and advocated for a minilateral approach that would start with a small group of countries, companies, and other stakeholders who would establish rigorous screening standards and then work with other countries and companies to incentivize wider adoption of the standard. Two alumni from the Biodefense program also participated in the workshop. Henry Kim, Biodefense PhD ’20, who is currently a research fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy, discussed South Korea’s interest in nucleic acid screening as a biosecurity tool.  Andy Morgan, Biodefense Certificate ‘24, who is the Senior Policy Advisor for Biotechnology Policy & Regulation at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in New Zealand, discussed draft legislation on biotechnology innovation and regulation that would include nucleic acid synthesis screening. 

Debating the U.S. Pandemic Preparedness Playbook: Risks, Reality, and Rebuttals 

Two sharply contrasting perspectives on pandemic preparedness dominated discourse last week. In City Journal, NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya and his Principal Deputy Director Matthew J. Memoli published an essay, arguing that the U.S. should create a dramatically revised “pandemic preparedness playbook.” They described it as a three-step agenda:  

1. Catalog every existing pathogen by sending scientists to remote areas around the world. 

2. Evaluate the risk of each pathogen infecting humans by testing its ability to penetrate human cells – a step they characterize as potentially involving genetic modification in a practice now called dangerous gain-of-function research (dGOF).  

3. Develop and stockpile countermeasures such as vaccines and therapeutics in advance of future spillover events.  

Bhattacharya and Memoli portray this approach as inherently risky and suggest that past U.S. preparedness investments failed or even contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

In response, Jeremy Faust, writing for Inside Medicine, published a rebuttal, criticizing the essay for misrepresenting both the scientific record and the purpose of U.S. preparedness programs. Faust – citing virologist Angela Rasmussen and others – counters that decades of NIH-funded coronavirus and mRNA research made the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines possible and saved millions of lives. He notes that wildlife surveillance and lab characterization are standard, tightly overseen scientific practices, not reckless attempts to “create” threats. They also emphasize that the weight of peer-reviewed evidence supports a zoonotic origin of SARS-CoV-2 linked to wildlife trade at the Huanan Wholesale Seafood Market in Wuhan – not laboratory work – and warns that abandoning scientific consensus for ideological narratives would leave the U.S. less, not more, prepared for the next pandemic.   

Further Reading: 

• “The pandemic next time,” Jon Cohen, Science 
• “Where Do Viruses Come From?” Kamal Nahas, The Scientist 
• “COVID vaccine rollout and pandemic preparedness assessed in new book, ‘Fair Doses,’” Jonathan Lambert, NPR 
• “What Would Happen To Americans In A Bird Flu Pandemic?” Stephanie Psaki and Beth Cameron, Health Affairs 
• “National Institutes of Health staffer put on nondisciplinary leave after criticizing NIH politicization,” Joseph Choi, The Hill 
• “NIH Job Postings Raise Red Flags for Scientists,” Kristina Fiore, MedPage Today  

New Review Article: How States Build Bioweapons: Lessons from Russia and Iraq 

In a new review, Amy E. Smithson examines how political leadership, institutional culture, and strategic doctrine shaped the Soviet/Russian and Iraqi illicit bioweapons programs. It analyzes each program’s motivations, organizational structure, scientific capacity, biosafety practices, and operational visibility – highlighting how these sociopolitical factors influenced agent selection, R&D, and military planning. By contrasting the two cases, the study draws lessons on how such contextual signals can help analysts better detect clandestine bioweapons efforts and anticipate proliferation risks.  

In Other News  

US and Global Health Policy, Funding Cuts and Governance  

• “Brazil Wins Limited Backing for COP30 Climate-Health Plan, But Nations Commit No Finance,” Stefan Anderson, Health Policy Watch 
• “Western aid cuts could cause 22.6 million deaths by 2030, study warns,” FRANCE 24 
• “UK warned that 15% cut to health fund will force ‘impossible choices’ on Africa,” Kat Lay, The Guardian 
• “U.S. Congress considers sweeping ban on Chinese collaborations,” Jeffrey Mervis, Science 
• “China’s Grip on American Medicine Cabinets Grows More Entrenched,” Anna Edney, Bloomberg 

Global Infectious Disease Outbreaks  

• “Ethiopia faces its first Marburg outbreak, which has proved deadly,” Stephanie Soucheray, CIDRAP 
• “Ethiopia reports three Marburg deaths, declares no active cases,” Addis Standard 
• “Ethiopia reports first outbreak of Marburg, Ebola cousin with no vaccine,” Robi Raji, Washington Post 
• “The next pandemic is already here: Antimicrobial resistance is upending a century of achievements in global health,” WHO 

Biosecurity, Biothreats, Militarization, and Biological Risks  

• “Legitimate Research or Biological Threat? Detecting Misuse of the Biological Supply Network and Policy Options to Reduce Risks,” RAND 
• “Secret U.S. Memo Authorizing Drug-Boat Strikes Cites Chemical Weapon Threat,” Alexander Ward, Lara Seligman, and Michael R. Gordon, The Wall Street Journal 
• “Chinese National Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Smuggling a Dangerous Biological Pathogen into the U.S. While Working at a University of Michigan Laboratory,” United States Attorney’s Office 
• “Chinese scientist charged with smuggling pathogen into US to be deported,” The Guardian 
• “OpenAI backs startup aiming to block AI-enabled bioweapons,” Deepa Seetharaman, Reuters 

How Can the Biological Weapons Convention Address the Dual-Use Challenges of AI-Driven Biodesign Tools?  

From UNIDIR: “In collaboration with the Biological Weapons Convention Implementation Support Unit (BWC-ISU) at the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), UNIDIR is organizing a series of online technical briefs on emerging technologies and the BWC. The upcoming session will focus on artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools for molecular design and biological engineering – areas advancing at a rapid pace. It will examine their current capabilities, potential dual-use risks, evolving international policy responses, and implications for strengthening the BWC. The session will include a conversation-style expert panel, followed by an interactive question-and-answer segment with the audience.” 

This event will take place online on November 26, 2025. Learn more and RSVP here. 

Cyberbiosecurity: Emerging Risks and Opportunities for the Biological Weapons Convention 

From UNIDIR: This session is organized as part of UNIDIR’s “Science and Technology Watchtower” project, aimed at identifying science and technology (S&T) developments and analysing their risks and opportunities for disarmament and international security. It will feature a short presentation of the main findings of UNIDIR’s new paper Cyberbiosecurity: A Matter of International Peace and Security?. The session will then feature a conversation-style panel with experts to explore the implications of cyberbiosecurity for bioscience governance, verification, and national implementation of the BWC, followed by a question-and-answer session with the audience.” 

This event will take place online on December 4, 2025. Learn more and RSVP here. 

GHS 2026

From GHS: “We’re excited to officially announce that the 4th Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) will be held in Kuala Lumpur on the 9 – 12 June, 2026!”

“Building on the incredible momentum of GHS2024 in Sydney, we look forward to bringing together the global health security community once again – this time in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant and dynamic cities.”

“Registration and Call for Abstracts are now live!”

Learn more, submit abstracts, and register here.

NEW: Call for Experts: Forum on Medical and Public Health Preparedness for Disasters and Emergencies 

From NASEM: “The National Academies is seeking suggestions for experts to be considered to fill 5 to 7 open seats on the Forum on Medical and Public Health Preparedness for Disasters and Emergencies. The forum fosters in-depth discussion and collaboration to examine barriers, identify research, explore innovative operational and policy solutions, and inspire action among diverse stakeholders in support of sustaining and advancing national health readiness and security. Additionally, staff are identifying potential speakers, participants, and other contributors for upcoming forum activities.” 

Submit your nominations by December 8 here. 

NEW: African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) 

From AAVN: “The African Atomic Voices Network (AAVN) is a collaborative, career-development community for young professionals, students, and researchers from Africa (aged 18–35) who are working in, or passionate about, nuclear issues and related global security challenges such as artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and chemical & biological security. The Network empowers African young professionals to shape global conversations and ensures that Africa’s voice is amplified in nuclear and broader global security discourse.” 

Learn more and join the network here. 

NEW: CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative 

From the initiative: “Established in 2018, the CNS Young Women in Nonproliferation Initiative aims to encourage undergraduate women to consider careers in WMD nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament. As part of this initiative, we offer a mentorship program that enables undergraduate women to work directly with leading experts in their areas of professional interest.” 

Learn more and join the network here.   

Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly Call for Papers

“We are pleased to announce the launch of Cyberbiosecurity Quarterly, a new academic and trade journal dedicated to the intersection of cybersecurity and the bioeconomy. Published by Kansas State University’s New Prairie Press and sponsored by the Bioeconomy Information Sharing and Analysis Center (BIO-ISAC), this quarterly journal will serve as an important resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers working to safeguard digital and physical biological infrastructures. Cyberbiosecurity is an emerging discipline that addresses the protection of biomanufacturing, biomedical research, synthetic biology, digital agriculture, and other life sciences sectors from digital threats. This journal will explore topics at the nexus of cybersecurity, digital biosecurity, and the bioeconomy, including but not limited to:

• Best practices for network configuration and management in biomedical environments (ingress/egress protection, segmentation, isolation, access control, traffic protection, etc.)
• Cybersecurity Vendor Management and Assessment
• Cyber and Digital Biosecurity Education for the Bioeconomy’s Workforce
• The Quality-Cybersecurity Tension in Practice and Techniques for Mitigation
• Threat Intelligence for Cyber-Physical Biological Systems
• Regulatory and Policy Perspectives on Cyberbiosecurity
• Incident Response and Risk Mitigation in Biomanufacturing
• AI and Machine Learning in Digital and Cyber Biosecurity”

Learn more and submit your papers here.

Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health

From Harvard’s Global Health Institute: “To equip and empower more leaders in global health, the Harvard Global Health Institute, in collaboration with the Department of Global Health and Population at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, offers a transformational 1-year fellowship specifically designed to promote leadership skills in individuals in low- and middle-income countries who will, in turn, mentor future female leaders in global health. Candidates should be currently based/working in a LMIC, and plan to return there after their fellowship.

The fellowship experience provides global health leaders time to reflect, recalibrate, and explore uncharted territories. To date, fellows have come from 18 different countries, with representation from Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America. Their areas of focus have ranged from HIV/AIDS and healthcare to health policy at the highest levels of government. Past fellows’ areas of expertise span disciplines including research, advocacy, administration, and policy.”

Learn more and submit your application by November 30 here.

Call for Presenters: International Bio Recovery Summit

The American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA) has opened its Call for Presenters for the 2026 International Bio Recovery Summit, taking place March 16-18 in Aberdeen, Maryland. As the industry’s leading event, the summit brings together bio-recovery professionals to address emerging challenges, regulatory updates, new technologies, and evolving safety standards in the field. ABRA invites experts to submit proposals aligned with conference objectives – including discussions on industry guidelines, insurance claims, hazardous substances, and business practices.

Learn more and submit your presentation by December 31 here.

64th ISODARCO Course

From ISODARCO: “In recent years, the global security landscape has become increasingly volatile, shaped by a convergence of geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and evolving nuclear doctrines. The post-Cold War order that once provided a measure of predictability in global security has eroded. Conflicts such as the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, and strategic competition between major powers have reshaped alliances and strategic postures.”

“At the same time, disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hypersonic missiles, and cyber threats – are adding new layers of complexity to both nuclear and conventional deterrence dynamics. These technologies are not only distorting the information landscape but also compressing decision-making timelines and complicating signaling mechanisms, increasing the risk of miscalculation.”

“Effectively managing nuclear escalation risks in this environment will require a combination of innovative diplomacy, technological safeguards, and renewed dialogue mechanisms to rebuild trust, reduce misperceptions, and stabilize strategic relations.”

“The ISODARCO 2026 Winter Course presents an invaluable opportunity for students and experts to discuss and examine these dynamics in depth and explore approaches to re-establishing strategic stability and reducing nuclear dangers in a volatile world.”

This course will take place January 11-18, 2026, in Andalo. Learn more and apply here.