07 Apr 2021

Social and Ethical Implications of Human Microbiome Research

Explore the crucial social and ethical implications of human microbiome research, highlighting issues of privacy, ownership, and the impact of technology.

This talk explores the complex social and ethical dimensions of human microbiome research. It addresses key issues such as privacy concerns, the ownership of biological samples, and the rights of Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of equitable practices in the field. The discussion also covers the impacts of engineered microbes on human and animal health and highlights the challenges posed by commercial products, such as the negative effects of vaginal cleansing products on women's health. The presentation makes a compelling case for recognizing microbiomes as a shared resource, advocating for responsible stewardship to ensure their protection and sustainable management.

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Dr. Kieran C. O’Doherty is professor in the department of psychology at the University of Guelph, where he directs the Discourse, Science, Publics research Group. His research focuses on the social and ethical implications of science and technology. In this context, he has published on such topics as data governance, vaccines, human tissue biobanks, salmon genomics, and genetic testing. A particular emphasis of his research has been on the social and ethical aspects of human microbiome research. Kieran’s research also emphasizes public deliberation on science and technology. In this regard, he has designed and implemented deliberative forums in which members of the public engage in in-depth discussion about ethical aspects of science and technology and collectively develop recommendations for policy. Recent edited volumes include Psychological Studies of Science and Technology (2019) and The Sage Handbook of Applied Social Psychology (2019). Kieran’s research has been funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Research & Innovation, Genome Canada and Genome British Columbia. He is editor of Theory & Psychology.