Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Genomics, Bioethics and Public Policy

Course Description

Genomics is expected to have a major impact on the way we conceptualize, prevent, diagnose and manage diseases, and promote health. Research and development of genome-related biotechnologies for health are accompanied by massive investments not only by industries but also by national governments as part of their strategies to promote innovation. As this field evolves there is a need for society to develop appropriate norms and frameworks to ensure that the complex social, ethical and economic issues of genomics are addressed. This should be done as early as possible, ideally as the technologies develop, and before applications based on the technologies have been marketed and introduced into health care systems. The course will address the main bioethical and public policy issues associated with genomics and health biotechnology development. It will discuss the current status of genomics science, genomics and biotechnology innovation systems, intellectual property rights, law and policy issues relating to genomics development, genomics and public health, public engagements, genomics and diversity, regenerative medicine, genomics databases and the ethics of genomics in global context where important emerging principles such as benefit sharing will be discussed.

The course is designed to encourage active involvement by participants. Class sessions will use a variety of learning methods including lectures, discussions and case analysis. To encourage active participation, the course will create a peer-learning environment in which participants learn with and from each other, in addition to learning from material presented by instructors.  Reading materials will be provided in advance. As the literature in these fields grows rapidly the proposed reading list will be updated just before the course starts and essential readings will be identified in advance of each session.

Course Objectives

• To familiarize participants with the current status and implications of health genomics/biotechnology, and to provide information relevant to public policy.
• To provide frameworks for analyzing and debating the policy issues and related ethical questions. This will help students understand, anticipate and possibly influence emerging legal and regulatory frameworks, both nationally and internationally.

Methods of Assessment

Short paper assignment (approximately 1000 words)	20%
Short presentation (approximately 10 minutes)	20%
Long paper assignment (approximately 4000 words)	50%
Class participation	10%

• The criteria applied for grading the assignments and presentations will be comprised of the following components:
  • the structure of the main arguments;
  • the extent and relevance of the cited literature; and
  • the ability of the student to communicate clearly the subject matter.
• The criteria for grading class participation will be based on:
  • active involvement in class discussion;
  • demonstrated comprehension of reading material;
  • expressed insight into the topics covered