Santa Clara University

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Center for Science, Technology and Society

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Biotechnology and Society

Biotechnology and Society Program  
The Center is committed to examining and building awareness regarding advances in biotechnology. Given the depth and complexity of the field, we’ve put forth an ambitious agenda, prioritizing our exploration within the context of:

- the Jesuit philosophy of social justice

- the societal impact and other value-based
issues associated with developing biotech products

- the sustainable development of biotech solutions to societal challenges, particularly those in deveolping countries

Implementation

Today, the program is focused on “localized awareness building” of biotech issues and current trends via seminars, symposia, and workshops on campus and in our Silicon Valley community, with primary emphasis on biotech innovations affecting healthcare, the environment, and agriculture. Program expansion plans include connecting this local community to a broader landscape through the engagement of regional, national, and international contributors.



Outcomes

Near-term, the Center will publish a series of reflection white papers and other materials concerning various aspects of biotech.  Longer-term, we are developing undergraduate academic biotechnology curricula, with an eye toward the social impacts of these innovations, to help students gain a deeper understanding and respect for emerging issues in biotech.