Vladimir Pasechnik

Vladimir Pasechnik was a prominent Russian microbiologist best known for his work on biological weapons during the Cold War. He played a key role in developing and testing methods to enhance the lethality of pathogens. In 1989, he defected to the West, raising concerns about the potential misuse of his knowledge. After his defection, he became an advocate for the peaceful use of biotechnology and contributed to various scientific fields, emphasizing biosecurity and the ethical implications of biotechnology. His life highlights the intersection of science, ethics, and international security in the context of bioweapons.