Biological innovation is moving quickly, and governments need advice that keeps pace with both the opportunities and the risks. The challenge is not simply to respond to the next crisis, but to anticipate how emerging technologies, global instability and changing health threats are reshaping preparedness. I am honoured to support Canada’s work in this area.”
Dr Filippa Lentzos, Reader in Science and International Security
19 June 2026
King's biosecurity expert appointed to advise Canada on life sciences and health security
Dr Filippa Lentzos of King’s College London has been appointed to advise the Government of Canada on strengthening biosecurity, health emergency preparedness and the responsible development of the life sciences sector.
Dr Lentzos, Associate Professor in Science and International Security in the Department of War Studies, has joined Health Emergency Readiness Canada’s Life Sciences Expert Advisory Council, which held its inaugural meeting in Ottawa on 15 June 2026.
The Council brings together leading experts to support Canada’s preparedness for future health emergencies, including pandemics, biosecurity threats and other public health risks. Its work also supports the growth of a competitive domestic life sciences ecosystem capable of adapting to emerging technologies, changing global conditions and evolving health security threats.
Dr Lentzos contributes expertise in biosecurity governance, international security and the responsible use of life sciences to the Council. Her role reflects King’s strength in research at the intersection of science, security, emerging technology governance and international policy.
Her wider advisory roles include chairing a World Health Organization advisory group on the responsible use of life sciences and dual-use research, and serving as one of the UK Government’s “champions of science” on the UK Biosecurity Leadership Council.
The Council’s advice will span research and development, industry and commercialisation, and public policy and health security, including issues such as domestic biomanufacturing capacity building, supply chain resilience, emerging threats and international partnerships.
During a declared health emergency or security situation, the Council – or selected members – may also be mobilised to provide rapid, real-time advice to support the federal response.
Health emergencies are no longer only public health events. They affect supply chains, national resilience, economic security and international stability. The value of bodies like the Life Sciences Expert Advisory Council is that they help governments think across those boundaries before a crisis hits, not only once one is underway.”
Dr Filippa Lentzos, Reader in Science and International Security
Members of the Council advise in an individual capacity, rather than as representatives of their organisations or affiliations, supporting independent, expert guidance to strengthen Canada’s readiness for emerging threats at the intersection of health and economic security.
The appointment highlights King’s global leadership in biosecurity and health security policy.
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Reader in Science and International Security