Directory of bio-threat experts to be organized
That’s why the DHS science and technology directorate is creating a new Bio-Knowledge Center Database which will identify "subject matter experts," -- SMEs in bureaucratic jargon -- and catalog their areas of expertise, contact information and level of education.
"In addition, the directory will make it easier to identify scientific specialty areas for which there is a shortage of SMEs with appropriate security clearances," noted an announcement by the S&T directorate in the Federal Register on March 14.
These experts could be called upon to offer "peer review of scientific programs" or to provide "expertise in the event of a perceived biothreat," said the notice.
The need for a central bio-knowledge database, which could be accessed via the Internet, was identified by the National Counterproliferation Center, a unit set up in 2005 within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
The data would be shared with U.S. Government program managers and with members of the bio-defense community.
The S&T directorate estimates that 4,000 experts will respond to its request for information, and that each individual will spend about 15 minutes completing the necessary forms.
Anyone wishing to comment on this proposed information request can visit www.regulations.gov, citing docket number DHS-2008-0026, by May 13.
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