AI and Biological risk: What the Evidence Says and What We Should Do
8 July 2026 · 3:30 pm–3:55 pm · Sutherland
AI systems can now troubleshoot virology experiments better than human experts, design novel genomes, and lower barriers that have historically kept dangerous capabilities out of reach. This panel will examine what the latest evidence tells us about AI-enabled biological risk, who the most concerning threat actors are, and what Australia and the international community can do about it — from DNA synthesis screening to biosurveillance to broader national security preparedness.
Speakers
Emily Grundy
Senior Policy Analyst, Good Ancestors
Emily drives AI policy research and advocacy at Good Ancestors. Her recent work has focused on AI-enabled biological risk, compute governance, and AI crisis management. Before Good Ancestors, Emily worked on MIT's AI Risk Repository — a comprehensive taxonomy of over 1,700 AI risks. She previously worked as a behavioural science researcher and consultant.
Devon Whittle
Australia Director, Global Shield Australia
As Director of Global Shield Australia, I lead policy advocacy with the Australian government on all-hazards global catastrophic risk, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence policy. Prior to Global Shield, I worked in the Commonwealth Government, including with the Attorney-General's Department and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, with a focus on international disputes, treaty negotiations, and trade law and policy.
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