Dr. Ralf Heckner,

Ambassador of Switzerland to the United States,

in collaboration with the

Global Strategic Studies Conference

cordially invites you to join the

PIPS Alumni Network & Young Professionals in Foreign Policy

for a fireside conversation with

Caitlin Frazer

National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB)

The defense industry is experiencing a revolution as emerging biotechnology, combined with artificial intelligence, transforms military capabilities across manufacturing, infrastructure, and combat operations. Today’s defense production relies heavily on environmentally harmful "forever chemicals" like PFAS, used in firefighting foam and fire-retardant materials, which contaminate water and soil. Biotechnology offers a sustainable alternative by enabling domestic biomanufacturing of critical products—from rocket propellant and bioderived jet fuel to ship coatings and military textiles—while providing bioremediation technologies that can break down PFAS pollutants.

If you're a young professional interested in shaping the future of national security and environmental sustainability, don't miss this opportunity to hear from leading biotechnology experts led in conversation by the Executive Director of the NSCEB. This event will showcase how biology and engineering are converging to solve some of our most pressing defense and environmental challenges while creating new career opportunities across the country.

We look forward to welcoming you to meet this distinguished panel of biotechnology experts in a fireside conversation followed by reception in the Swiss Ambassador’s Residence, 2920 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington DC, 20008.

Questions: tracy@pipsalumni.org

RSVP by: Wednesday, January 7, 2025