Support for Events

Program Description

We invite groups and individuals who are interested in organizing discussions about mirror biology to submit an expression of interest for funding.

What we are looking for

This initial funding program intends to only fund events that occur alongside or as part of planned future events that are likely to attract relevant stakeholders but are not, themselves, focused on mirror biology (e.g. a conference on general microbiology or synthetic biology, or science and technology studies).

• Discussions could come in the form of panels, talks, symposia, satellite conferences, or workshops. 

• Discussions should directly relate to mirror biology. Example topics include, but are not limited to: 

• Furthering understanding of the feasibility and risks, building on the initial assessment in “Technical Report on Mirror Bacteria: Feasibility and Risks”, examining its claims, and developing forward-looking research agendas.

• Designing inclusive processes for governance of mirror bacteria

• Technical analysis of biosecurity and biosafety governance options.

• Ethical, legal, or social implications of creating mirror life.

• Priority will be given to events that are likely to attract a wide range of relevant stakeholders, such as researchers, policymakers, experts in ethics, law, biosafety and biosecurity, etc.

• Funding is intended in large part to support travel to enable international representation at events.

• We encourage proposed events to be open to all attendees of the accompanying main event, either by default, via application, or through submission of abstracts. In special cases, we will consider applications for closed (i.e. invitation-only) events. The rationale for keeping the meeting closed must be provided. 

• Eligible events are scheduled to occur between April 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026.

What we are not looking for

• This funding mechanism is not intended to support research activities.

• This funding mechanism is not intended for standalone events focused on mirror life. Those interested in hosting a standalone event should contact events@mbdf.org.

• To connect on other topics, including support for other initiatives to advance the conversation on mirror biology, please reach out at hello@mbdf.org.

Interested in submitting an Expression of Interest?

Learn more here.