The HHS Office of Biotechnology Activities (OBA) recently posted a new Policy for Oversight of Life Sciences Dual Use Research of Concern; a copy of the policy is found at http://oba.od.nih.gov/oba/biosecurity/PDF/United_States_Government_Policy_for_Oversight_of_DURC_FINAL_version_032812.pdf.
This policy establishes a process of regular review of US funded or conducted research with certain high-consequence pathogens and toxins for its potential to be dual use research of concern (DURC) and explains department and agency responsibilities.The fundamental aim of this oversight is "to preserve the benefits of life sciences research while minimizing the risk of misuse of the knowledge, information, products, or technologies provided by such research".