Exploring the intersection of transformative technologies, humanity, and the future of our world - and having some fun while we're at it.

Imagine standing on the shores of Prince William Sound, Alaska, where the Exxon Valdez oil spill once unleashed 11 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean. The waves crash gently against the rocky beach, but beneath the surface, a quieter revolution is happening. Microbes — some engineered, some naturally adapted — are cleaning up what humans couldn’t. This is bioremediation in action, where biotechnology meets environmental stewardship.

Alexander Titus

Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, and the Ethics of Changing Our World

The Double-Edged Helix

Gene drives—a concept that might sound like something from science fiction—could reshape the way we address some of the world's most pressing challenges. Picture a future where we can eradicate devastating diseases, better protect our crops, and control invasive species. This technology holds the power to turn these visions into reality. However, with such transformative potential come significant risks and ethical questions.

Hannah Dayton

From crops to human health, the impact is as wide as the challenges they create

Ep 13 - Gene Drives: Engineering Nature’s Future

Welcome to

 
 The Connected Ideas Project
 

! Or as I’ll more often refer to it,

 TCIP

. This is an expansion of the Co-Evolution newsletter that you’ve been following along with for a while.

 Co-Evolution: Tech, Policy, and Our Lives

will carry on as usual, with new editions coming out every Tuesday.

An Introduction to the world of deep tech, creativity, and personal adventure

Welcome to The Connected Ideas Project

Hey there, science and policy enthusiasts! It's Titus here, and I'm thrilled to bring you this special edition newsletter on a topic that's close to my heart: the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Remember last week’s issue, when I promised more on the BWC soon?

How an old treaty is getting a high-tech perspective upgrade to keep us safe

Ep 06 - Biodefense 2.0: BWC in the Modern Age

Hey there! I'm excited to dive into a recent white paper from the NSCEB on strengthening gene synthesis security. As someone who's deeply passionate about the intersection of AI and life sciences, this topic is fascinating because it seems simple, yet it is oh so hard. Let's break it down and explore what it means for our field and society at large.

 Before I do, I have to laugh at how challenging it is for the AI podcast hosts to say NSCEB.

How iterative governance could unlock biotechnology's potential while safeguarding our future

Ep 05 - Rewriting the Rules: A Dynamic Approach to Gene Synthesis Security

Key Takeaways: The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Geoffrey Hinton and John Hopfield for their pioneering work on artificial neural networks, which laid the foundation for modern deep learning. The 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry went to David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper for using AI to predict and design protein structures, revolutionizing our understanding of these crucial biological molecules.

How the 2024 Physics and Chemistry Prizes Are Reshaping Our Understanding of Intelligence and Life Itself

Ep 04 - Nobel Breakthroughs: AI Meets Biology at the Frontiers of Science

Hey there, science enthusiasts and policy wonks! Titus here, and I've got some exciting developments to share about the intersection of artificial intelligence and life sciences.

The co-evolution of biology and computing started in the era of Alan Turing and is accelerating at a mind-boggling rate with modern AI

Ep 03 - AI and Life Sciences: Navigating the Frontier of Innovation and Security

The podcast audio is AI-generated with Google’s NotebookLM

Hey there, fellow tech enthusiasts, policy wonks, and curious minds! Welcome to "Co-Evolution: Tech, Policy, and our Lives," your new favorite corner of the internet where we'll be diving deep into the fascinating, sometimes messy, but always crucial intersection of emerging technology and public policy. I'm Alexander Titus, but I generally just go by Titus.

Where tech meets policy, policy meets people, and the people you should meet

Ep 01 - Welcome to Co-Evolution: Tech, Policy, and Our Lives

The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) has produced an interim report that focuses on the potential of biotechnology to transform society and improve national security.

This is a fascinating AI-generated summary of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology's Interim Report Using Google's NotebookLM

Ep 00 - Podcast About the NSCEB's Interim Report

The Map Is Not the Territory
 

Artificial intelligence has often been described as a new frontier—a vast, uncharted space promising unparalleled opportunity but fraught with hidden risks. Recently, the inaugural convening of the International Network of AI Safety Institutes (INASI) in San Francisco laid down a global compass for navigating this terrain.

AI safety isn’t just about preventing harm.

Ep 15 - A Global Compass for AI Safety

Hey, my friends! Today, we're venturing into a realm that's as vast and complex as life itself: the world of biological data and its implications for U.S. biotechnology leadership. This is based on the white paper from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) titled "Leveraging Biological Data." Like last week, the podcast audio is AI-generated, and they keep calling this a report.

Thoughts and a podcast about the NSCEB's thinking on leveraging biological data

Ep 02 - Data, data, data. What's with all the data?

The Future of Cleanup
 

Hi everyone, and welcome to this week’s edition of

 Co-Evolution

! Today, we’re diving into a topic that blends cutting-edge biotechnology with environmental justice: bioremediation. You may not have heard of the term before, but if you’ve ever hoped for a cleaner, greener future, this is where the action is happening.

How Biotechnology is Transforming Environmental Remediation

Ep 12 - Nature’s Microbial Cleanup Crew

Hi my friends, welcome back! I’m excited to introduce a new member of the Co-Evolution team, Hannah Dayton. Hannah is a postdoc at Harvard and an expert in antibiotic resistance research, so I convinced her to share her expertise with the world. The AI-generated podcast this week is about the National Action Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria.

Exploring the world of antibiotic resistance with Hannah Dayton

Ep 09 - Fighting little bugs who are starting to fight back

The Ancient Roots of Agricultural Innovation

Agriculture is undergoing a revolution, one shaped by the transformative power of biotechnology. This field, at the intersection of science, policy, and industry, promises to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

From ancient practices to gene editing, exploring how biotechnology is transforming agriculture to meet humanity's greatest challenges

Ep 14 - The Agricultural Revolution 2.0: How Biotechnology is Rewriting the Rules of Farming

Hello my friends. Today, I’m sharing a different kind of post. I spend a lot of time considering the implications of the technology we are developing, and I want to share some thoughts on what I consider the FABRIC of our society and the future human experience. This is outside of my traditional post, so I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback.

The convergence of these technologies doesn't simply challenge what humans can do; it challenges what humans can be.

Ep 11 - Weaving the FABRIC of Reality—An Introduction to Technological Convergence and Human Identity

Good morning friends! I'm sitting here with my fourth espresso of the morning, still buzzing about a white paper from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB). It’s about minerals! So exciting! :-P

 Ok, I am being a little silly, but some of the enthusiasm that comes from my AI podcast hosts friends gets campy and I start to feel it too.

Nature's Answer to Our Critical Materials Crisis

Ep 10 - When Plants Become Miners

Good morning my friends, I've spent the last few weeks deep in the weeds of AI and biotechnology policy (that’s a lie, I’ve spent far more than a few weeks, but humor me), and I've got to tell you - the latest progress never ceases to amaze me no matter how much time I spend thinking about the topic.

Exploring the Line Between Innovation and Safety with Insights from Congress, the National Security Commission, and Why We Need a New Approach to Tech Policy

Ep 08 - AI &amp; Bio: Finding Balance Through Evidence

Hey everyone! I spent the evening yesterday diving deep into the White House's new memorandum on AI and national security (Fact Sheet, Deep Dive), and I've got to tell you – this is one of the most significant policy developments I've seen in our field. Let me break down why I'm so excited about this and what it means for the future of AI, biotechnology, and national security.

Ep 07 - Breaking Down the New US AI National Security Memorandum

The Connected Ideas Project

## **The Map Is Not the Territory**

Artificial intelligence has often been described as a new frontier---a
vast, uncharted space promising unparalleled opportunity but fraught
with hidden risks. Recently, the inaugural convening of the
[International Network of AI Safety Institutes
(INASI)](https://www.nist.gov/system/files/documents/2024/11/20/Mission%20Statement%20-%20International%20Network%20of%20AISIs.pdf)
in San Francisco laid down a global compass for navigating this terrain.
[With representatives from 10
countries](https://www.commerce.gov/news/fact-sheets/2024/11/fact-sheet-us-department-commerce-us-department-state-launch-international),
this gathering marked a pivotal step in building an international
consensus on AI safety.

But creating a map of the future is not the same as charting the course.
INASI's mission isn't just about identifying the risks; it's about
creating the tools, systems, and shared understanding needed to mitigate
them while preserving the transformative potential of AI. As we examine
this effort, it becomes clear that the network's formation is as much
about coordination as it is about trust.

## **Shared Understanding in a Fragmented World**

AI's power lies in its ability to scale decision-making and creativity.
Yet that same power amplifies the risks. Generative AI can synthesize
text, images, and data at extraordinary speeds, but it can also
facilitate disinformation, fraud, and even large-scale social
manipulation. The challenge isn't simply to develop technical
safeguards; it's to create a global framework where those safeguards are
consistent and interoperable.

This is where INASI steps in. Its purpose is to bring together the
technical expertise of member nations to advance AI safety science and
align on best practices. By creating a shared foundation, the network
aims to avoid a patchwork of regional rules that could stifle innovation
and exacerbate risks.

Among INASI's key priorities:

- **Mitigating Risks from Synthetic Content**: From non-consensual
 imagery to fraudulent impersonations, synthetic content poses complex
 challenges. INASI's members are pooling resources to better understand
 and address these threats.

- **Testing Advanced AI Models**: Ensuring models operate safely across
 cultural and linguistic contexts requires international cooperation.
 The network's first testing exercise highlights the nuances of
 evaluating AI systems in a global landscape.

- **Advancing Inclusion**: AI safety isn't just a problem for wealthy
 nations. INASI's mission includes empowering countries at all stages
 of development to participate in the conversation and access the
 benefits of safe AI.

But the story is not in the lists of priorities. It's in the threads
connecting them.

## **FABRIC in Action**

AI safety doesn't exist in isolation---it intertwines deeply with the
broader [FABRIC
technologies](https://www.connectedideasproject.com/p/weaving-fabric-of-humanity-and-society).
Imagine the role of quantum computing in securing generative AI systems,
or the necessity of robotics in monitoring AI-driven manufacturing. Each
innovation in safety ripples outward, touching fields as diverse as
biotechnology and fusion energy.

Take, for example, INASI's focus on synthetic content risks. This isn't
merely about addressing disinformation; it's about preserving trust in
digital ecosystems. AI-generated imagery and narratives have
implications for the bioeconomy, where public confidence in technologies
like biomanufacturing depends on the integrity of the information
surrounding them. The stakes are high, and the solutions must be
interdisciplinary.

## **Trust as Infrastructure**

INASI's work underscores a simple but profound truth: safety begins with
trust. Building that trust requires transparency---not just in how AI
systems are developed, but in how their risks are communicated and
mitigated. For many nations, this is a question of survival as much as
prosperity.

The network's commitment to global inclusion is particularly striking.
By prioritizing accessibility, INASI aims to ensure that all nations,
regardless of their resources, can contribute to and benefit from AI
safety. This isn't charity; it's strategy. An interconnected world can't
afford isolated vulnerabilities.

At the convening, representatives emphasized that trust isn't
static---it evolves. Just as AI systems are iteratively tested and
improved, so too must our frameworks for governing them. The journey is
as much about adaptation as it is about design.

## **A Collective Compass**

The question for INASI---and for all of us---is not whether AI will
reshape the world but how. Will it be a force for equity or division,
for innovation or exploitation? The decisions made today will determine
whether AI enhances human potential or undermines it.

INASI's formation signals a collective commitment to steering this
transformative technology toward the better angels of our nature. By
pooling knowledge, aligning practices, and embracing shared
responsibility, the network offers a blueprint for navigating the
complexities ahead.

## **Reflections for the Future**

As we consider INASI's mission, it's worth reflecting on the broader
implications. Safety isn't just a technical problem; it's a human one.
It's about the systems we build, the values we encode, and the futures
we imagine. This is the work of The Connected Ideas Project---exploring
the intersections of technology, humanity, and purpose.

AI safety isn't just about preventing harm. It's about creating space
for growth, discovery, and connection. It's about ensuring that the map
we draw reflects the richness of the territory it represents.

Let's build that map thoughtfully. And let's walk it together.

Cheers,

-Titus

<div>

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</div>

*The podcast audio was AI-generated using [Google's
NotebookLM](https://notebooklm.google/)*

Hey there, science and policy enthusiasts! It\'s Titus here, and I\'m
thrilled to bring you this special edition newsletter on a topic that\'s
close to my heart: the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Remember
last week's issue, when I promised more on the BWC soon? Well, here it
is! As someone deeply involved in the intersection of AI, biology, and
policy, I can\'t stress enough how crucial this international treaty is
for our collective security and scientific progress.

*As usual, I'm also adding an AI-generated podcast about the [BWC and
this
doc](https://disarmament.unoda.org/publications/the-biological-weapons-convention/).
Its pretty awesome, but it keeps calling this document a "brochure" :-P
The episode about a 2-page white paper on data is a "report" and the
summary of a 38-page about the BWC is a "brochure." Well, c'est la vie.*

## The BWC: Our Global Shield Against Bioweapons

First things first: what exactly is the BWC? Well, imagine a global
agreement that says, \"Hey, let\'s all agree not to create weapons that
use disease as ammunition.\" That\'s the BWC in a nutshell. It\'s been
around since 1975, and it\'s our best defense against the nightmare
scenario of biological warfare.

But here\'s the kicker: the BWC isn\'t just about banning bioweapons.
It\'s also about promoting the peaceful use of biology and
biotechnology. As someone who\'s passionate about the potential of these
fields to solve global challenges, I find this dual nature of the BWC
absolutely fascinating.

## Why Should We Care?

Now, you might be thinking, \"Alex, that\'s great and all, but why
should I care about some international treaty?\" Let me tell you why
this matters to all of us.

In our interconnected world, a bioweapon release anywhere is a threat
everywhere. The BWC helps prevent this nightmare scenario. But it goes
beyond just preventing disasters. By promoting peaceful biological
research, the BWC supports advancements that could cure diseases,
improve agriculture, and even help combat climate change.

Moreover, the BWC encourages responsible research practices, which is
crucial as we push the boundaries of biotechnology. In today\'s
geopolitically tense world, it provides a platform for nations to work
together on critical issues. It\'s a shining example of how
international cooperation can make the world safer for all of us.

## The BWC in Action: More Than Just Words on Paper

You might be surprised to learn that the BWC isn\'t just a static
document gathering dust in some UN archive. It\'s a living, breathing
agreement that adapts to our changing world. Every five years, member
states get together to review and update the Convention. The next one is
coming up in 2027, and trust me, it\'s going to be exciting!

Between these big conferences, there are ongoing meetings and working
groups. I\'ve had the privilege of being involved in some of these, and
let me tell you, the discussions are intense and crucial. We\'re
constantly working to keep the BWC relevant in the face of rapid
scientific advancements.

One of the coolest aspects of the BWC is its confidence-building
measures. Member states share information about their biological
activities to build trust and transparency. It\'s like a global \"show
and tell\" for biotech! This openness is crucial for maintaining
international trust and preventing misunderstandings that could lead to
conflict.

## The AI-Bio Convergence: A New Frontier for the BWC

Now, here\'s where things get really interesting (at least for a tech
nerd like me). The rapid advancement of AI and its integration with
biology is opening up incredible possibilities - but also new challenges
for biosecurity.

As someone who\'s been working at this intersection, I can tell you that
the BWC community is taking this seriously. There are ongoing
discussions about how to leverage AI for better biosurveillance and
threat detection, while also safeguarding against potential misuse.

This AI-bio convergence is a perfect example of why the BWC needs to be
flexible and forward-thinking. We\'re not just dealing with 20th-century
bioweapon threats anymore - we\'re looking at 21st-century challenges
that require innovative solutions.

## Challenges and Opportunities: Where Do We Go From Here?

Let\'s be real: the BWC isn\'t perfect. We\'re still working on
achieving universal adherence. As of September 2024, 187 states have
joined the BWC. That\'s great, but we need everyone on board for true
global security. We\'re also grappling with the lack of formal
verification mechanisms and the challenge of keeping pace with rapid
scientific advancements.

But with these challenges come opportunities. We have the chance to
leverage new technologies like AI and synthetic biology to enhance our
biosecurity capabilities. The BWC provides a framework for international
collaboration in the life sciences, which is more important than ever in
our globalized world. Perhaps most excitingly, we have the opportunity
to instill a culture of responsibility in the next generation of
scientists and policymakers.

## Get Involved: Be Part of the Solution

Now, I know what you\'re thinking: \"This all sounds important, but what
can I do?\" Well, I\'m glad you asked! The most important thing you can
do is stay informed. Follow the BWC\'s official channels and reputable
science policy sources. Knowledge is power!

Don\'t be afraid to engage in dialogue. Attend public lectures,
participate in online forums, or even write to your representatives
about the importance of the BWC. If you\'re in the life sciences,
advocate for and practice responsible research. And of course, spread
the word! Share this newsletter with your network. The more people
understand the importance of the BWC, the stronger our collective
biosecurity becomes.

## Wrapping Up: A Call to Action

As we face global challenges like pandemics, climate change, and food
security, the importance of biology in our lives is only going to grow.
The BWC provides a crucial framework for ensuring that this biological
revolution benefits humanity while safeguarding against potential risks.

I truly believe that the intersection of AI, biology, and policy is
where some of the most exciting and important work of our generation
will happen. The BWC is a key part of this landscape, and by
understanding and supporting it, we\'re all contributing to a safer,
more innovative future.

So, let\'s keep the conversation going! Feel free to reach out with your
thoughts, questions, or ideas. Together, we can ensure that the awesome
power of biology is harnessed for the greater good.

Stay curious, stay engaged, and as always, keep pushing the boundaries
of what\'s possible!

Cheers,

-Titus

<div>

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</div>

*The podcast audio was AI-generated using [Google's
NotebookLM](https://notebooklm.google/)*