An ad hoc committee will plan and convene a public workshop to explore the public interfaces between scientists and citizens (e.g., consumers, farmers, and corporate or government policy makers) in the context of genetically engineered (GE) organisms. The workshop discussions will explore the empirical findings from social science disciplines on market dynamics, public opinion, attitudes, and decision-making in the U.S. and abroad. Ethical, legal, and other societal value systems of scientists and decision-making audiences that underlie public debates about genetic engineering, and what is known about successful models of engagement given those values will also be discussed. Finally, the workshop will delve into the science information needs of decision-makers and potential collaborative mechanisms that facilitate access to and evaluation of scientific evidence about GE organisms for decision-making purposes. Some of the questions addressed at the workshop include:

· What values or value systems influence the attitudes of scientists and the public toward genetically engineered organisms?

· How can scientists and science policy makers enter into dialogue with the public on issues related to genetically engineered organisms in ways that build trust?

· What is the appropriate (and realistic) role of science in informing decisions related to genetically engineered organisms?

· What types and sources of information about genetically engineered organisms are useful and credible to citizens, given their diverse value systems?

· How can scientific information about genetically engineered organisms be best presented for use by policy decision-makers?

· How can non-scientists and consumers access and evaluate scientific studies about genetically engineered organisms in real time, to better inform their decisions?

The committee will develop the workshop agenda, select and invite speakers and other participants, and moderate the discussions. An individually-authored summary of the workshop will be prepared by a designated rapporteur in accordance with institutional policy and procedures.