Southern University of Science and Technology

Joint Statement of All Faculty Members of the Department of Biology　on the “Gene-Edited Baby” Incident

November 27, 2018

In recent days, media outlets have reported extensively on the “gene-edited baby”. As colleagues of the party concerned, we are deeply saddened by this incident. The clinical application of human embryo genetic editing was rashly carried out despite being prohibited by law and restricted by ethics, and its safety not fully tested. The conduct of the party has seriously violated academic codes of conduct and ethics, and should be resolutely opposed and strongly condemned.

Since its establishment, the Department of Biology has paid careful attention to compliance with pertinent national research codes of conduct, policies and regulations, and is constantly improving related rules and guidelines internally. With a reverence for life and for science, we prudently conduct scientific research maintaining rigorous standards and staying within the scope permitted by the rules, in the hope that our research outcomes and innovations better serve the welfare of mankind. We deeply regret the occurrence of this isolated incident and its adverse effects. We will fully cooperate with the University and the higher authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation of this incident. Scientific advancement must not leave ethics behind, and the line of law and morality must not be crossed.

All Faculty Members of the Department of Biology

Southern University of Science and Technology