Science committee picks three inquiries pitched by researchers

The House of Commons Science and Technology Committee is to launch inquiries into commercial genomics, the impact of research funding on diversity and the role of science in addressing food security and biodiversity.

The three inquiries will be based on 4 of the 10 ideas pitched by researchers on 29 January, the committee announced on 27 February.

The first inquiry, on commercial genomics, will be launched this week. The idea was put forward by Catherine Joynson, assistant director at the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, who proposed that the committee look at the potential benefits and ethical challenges of commercial genomics.