
dual-use research of concern (DURC)
Dual-use research of concern (DURC) involves scientific studies that have the potential to benefit society, such as improving healthcare, but also could be misused to cause harm, like creating biological agents for bioweapons. It’s a careful balance where researchers and authorities assess the risks and benefits to ensure that valuable knowledge advances without increasing security threats. DURC highlights the importance of responsible oversight to prevent scientific advances from being exploited maliciously while still enabling progress.