Since publishing our first policy statement in 2015, scientific research has evolved significantly, particularly in fields such as:
- engineering biology
- artificial intelligence
- machine learning
The landscape of threats and societal concerns about the risks that may arise from research has also changed since then.
As a result, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and Medical Research Council (MRC) have revised the policy statement.
Joint statement on research with potential misuse risk
The policy statement defines research with potential misuse risk as work intended to provide benefits which could also:
- be used for harmful purposes
- cause harm through accidental release
- be targeted for malicious intent
The statement reinforces our commitment to supporting responsible approaches in high-quality research that improves health, strengthens food security and drives economic growth.
The statement also clarifies our expectations for responsible research and innovation.
Encouraging innovation while managing risk
Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith, BBSRC Executive Chair, said:
Breakthrough science may carry risks of unintended consequences.
Our goal is to facilitate progress, but to make sure it happens responsibly.
We want researchers to keep pushing the boundaries of understanding how life functions, with the right safeguards in place to safely unlock the benefits of research while ensuring that risks of misuse are minimised.
Ethics and responsible research and innovation
To help applicants meet the expectations in the statement, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) will introduce a new question from early 2026 in our grant application form on the UKRI Funding Service.
Responses will help UKRI take a proportionate approach to potential risk.
Researchers and reviewers will be expected to consider all elements of research, including:
- research tools and technologies
- all intended outputs
- scenarios beyond intended applications
Researchers may also be required to provide additional assurances before receiving funding if their application is successful in a BBSRC or MRC funding opportunity.
Collaboration and leadership
Professor Patrick Chinnery, MRC Executive Chair, said:
Our approach to managing research risk has been developed through consultation with research community representatives and other stakeholders.
It reflects the changing research landscape and international best practice and aims to ensure that the UK remains a leader in responsible research and innovation.
We’re supporting world-class science while taking a proportionate approach to managing potential risks.
Support and guidance
Guidance will be provided to help applicants, reviewers and panels to identify, assess and respond to these risks.
Applicants should also make use of resources within the Good research resource hub.
Further guidance and contact information, as well as the key governance, regulatory and legal frameworks to safeguard against potential harm are outlined in the joint statement.
Read our joint statement on research with potential misuse risk.