Horizon and Brown co-host second annual Game Changers Workshop on biosecurity policy careers
In partnership with the Brown University Pandemic Center and with support from Sentinel Bio, Helena, and the Policy Entrepreneurs Network (PEN), the Game Changers Workshop brought together over 40 early- to mid-career professionals from across the country to explore careers in biosecurity and pandemic preparedness policy. The workshop was designed to inspire and support those considering a career pivot into biosecurity policy.
The workshop kicked off with keynote talks from Maj. Gen. (ret) Paul Friedrichs, Director of the White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy, and Dr. Michelle Rozo, Vice Chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology. Over the weekend, participants engaged with more than two dozen experts from across US departments and agencies, NGOs, and congressional offices through panels, small-group discussions, and content sessions, including a fireside chat with Dr. Lynda Stuart, Executive Director for the Institute for Protein Design at the University of Washington, and Dr. Andrew Hebbeler, Director of Biosecurity at the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, on emerging issues at the intersection of AI and biology. Sessions covered topics from scaling vaccine production through the 100 Days Mission to biosurveillance and early warning in a security context.
Participants gained hands-on experience by pitching their own policy recommendations, collaborating on scenario-based tabletop exercises, and engaging in interactive Q&A sessions on “day-in-life” experiences in Congress, the executive branch, and NGOs. Participants also received personalized career advice from experienced policy practitioners in the field, including strategies for transitioning from the private sector, guidance for navigating federal agencies, and considerations for graduate programs.
We believe that events like the Game Changers Workshop are essential to fostering pathways into public service in biosecurity policy and other emerging technology fields. After the workshop, 76% of participants reported they were more likely to pursue a career in biosecurity policy, and 94% expressed increased excitement about contributing to policy in this area. One participant noted,
“I wasn’t sure that I wanted to enter a biosecurity or public health policy career, and this was very affirming. It showed me many opportunities that I didn’t know of beforehand.”
Another shared that the workshop
“confirmed my interest to enter the field of biosecurity. It showed me different opportunities to enter the field and areas of the government that are focused on AIxBio convergence.”
The 2024 Game Changers Workshop is part of Horizon’s ongoing efforts to support emerging technology talent. Based on hundreds of hours of research and dozens of interviews with policy professionals, our website project emergingtechpolicy.org provides expert advice and resources for individuals interested in public service and emerging technology. Our events offer participants relevant opportunities, networking support, and actionable career advice. Horizon also runs an annual fellowship program that places subject-matter experts in roles across federal agencies, congressional offices, and think tanks.
To stay updated on new resources, upcoming events, and opportunities, sign up for our newsletter. If you’re interested in emerging technology and public service work, you can also fill out our career interest form.
We are deeply grateful to our partners at the Brown University Pandemic Center for their commitment to fostering the next generation of biosecurity leaders; to Sentinel Bio, Helena, and the Policy Entrepreneurs Network (PEN) for their support; and to our exceptional speakers and facilitators for generously sharing their stories and expertise.
