Topic
Artificial intelligence (AI)
AI and genomics futures
Current Project
Current joint project with the Ada Lovelace Institute
This joint project explores how AI is transforming the capabilities and practice of genomic science, and what such a transformation could mean for people and society.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and genomics are set to be two of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century.
In recent years, these two technologies have become more and more intertwined, with many new advances in genomics having been made possible by the deployment of AI, and with genomic data increasingly being used and sought after to train AI systems.
The convergence of AI and genomics is poised to have a significant impact on medical research, healthcare, and societies across the globe. But it also presents new challenges for policymakers seeking to understand, regulate, and manage the societal effects of these technologies.
Considered in isolation, developments in AI and genomics pose profound questions concerning human agency, privacy, equality, bias, and power. When the two technologies are considered together, these questions become all the more complex, considering the number of different ways these technologies might develop and interact with one another and with outside factors.
AI and genomics futures is a joint project between the Ada Lovelace Institute and the Nuffield Council on Bioethics that seeks to methodically investigate the ethical issues arising from this convergence. The project uses a variety of methods, ranging from research, futures thinking, and public engagement, to explore how AI is transforming the capabilities and practice of genomic science, and what such a transformation could mean for people and society. It is overseen by an external Advisory Board.
Deliberative 'mini-public'
We are currently inviting tenders for a deliberative public engagement exercise aimed at understanding the views of an informed ‘mini-public’ about the use of genomic health prediction technology and how it should be governed and regulated.
We are looking for an external partner to carry out this deliberative public engagement exercise which will need to be completed by the end of July 2023.
The closing date for submissions is Monday 20 March, 11 am.
READ THE INVITATION TO TENDER
Getting involved
Bringing in and drawing on expert insight and perspectives will be central to this project. We want to hear from people from different backgrounds, countries, and with different forms of expertise and insight into AI and genomics.
If you have expertise or experience of AI, genomics, or the intersection between the two, and who would potentially be interested in being involved with the project, please email Harry Farmer with the subject line ‘Interest in AI and Genomics project’, and include the following in your message:
- who you are,
- the nature of your insight or expertise in AI and genomics, and
- how you might like to be involved.
If you’re unsure of the potential ways to participate, let us know and we’d be happy to discuss.
