An International Microbial Forensics Research Strategy And Its Collaborative Pursuit Is Needed

Microbial forensics has existed as a discipline for over 20 years to support the investigation and attribution of suspected or actual biocrimes, illicit bioproliferation, bioterrorism, and biowarfare. Following the United States' lead, several nations have established microbial forensics programs of their own and continue to advance the scientific capabilities of those programs. Considerable collaboration between some of these nations buttresses those efforts. With the anticipated establishment of an international microbial forensics laboratory consortium to support the United Nations Secretary-General's Mechanism, the science should continue to develop and advance. An international strategy is needed to guide such efforts, measure progress, and promote continued advancement to meet evolving challenges.