Led by NC State Professors Fred Gould and Jennifer Kuzma, the Center for Genetic Engineering and Society provides mechanisms for discussion and rigorous, trustworthy analyses about how products of genetic engineering and synthetic biology may impact society and the environment. Among the accomplishments of the GES Center in 2016-17 was having three of its members serving on National Academies of Science Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) consensus studies that examined issues related to genetic engineering. Fred Gould was chair of the study resulting a report titled Genetically Engineered Crops: Experiences and Prospects.
Jason Delborne served on the committee that produced a report titled Gene Drives on the Horizon. Jennifer Kuzma is serving on the committee titled Committee on Future Biotechnology Products and Opportunities to Enhance Capabilities of the Biotechnology Regulatory System. GES held two international workshops at NCSU on the topic of gene drives. The GES center reported engaging over 28 faculty, 2 undergraduate students, 15 graduate students, and 4 post docs. GES’ weekly colloquium continues to bring to campus high profile speakers with diverse perspectives on genetic engineering. Jennifer Kuzma was awarded an NSF grant on
Responsible Innovation to involve graduate students in exploring many aspects of genetic engineering. In 2016 GES Center faculty were involved in writing a grant proposal to DARPA on Gene Drives.