COURSE REQUIREMENTS

There are no prerequisites for this course.

COURSE SYLLABUS

Module 1: Introduction to Emerging Technologies and their nexus to CBRNE-WMD and Asymmetric Threats

• Understand the role of emerging technologies such as AI, nanotechnology, 3D printing, and synthetic biotechnologies in CBRNE-WMD proliferation and threat dissemination.
• Explore current and future applications of these technologies in enhancing the offensive capabilities of asymmetric actors and state actors.
• Evaluate how these technologies are leveraged to counter CBRNE threats through improved detection, protection, and response strategies.
• Analyze real-world case studies that highlight the application of these technologies in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive scenarios.
• Discuss the ethical and legal challenges associated with these emerging technologies in the context of national and global security.

Module 2: Nano-Technology in CBRNE-WMD

• Understand the foundational concepts of nanotechnology and its significance in CBRNE threat response.
• Explore the current applications of nanotechnology in detecting, protecting against, and decontaminating CBRNE agents.
• Analyze future directions in nanotechnology, particularly in enhancing capabilities within each CBRNE modality.
• Discuss real-world case studies to evaluate the effectiveness and challenges of nanotechnology in CBRNE scenarios.

Module 3: Artificial Intelligence and CBRNE-WMD

• Understand AI’s dual-use potential in enhancing and preventing the proliferation of CBRNE-WMD incidents.
• Explore current and future applications of AI in the detection, prevention, and response to CBRNE threats across various modalities.
• Analyze real-world case studies of AI’s role in CBRNE events, examining the ethical and legal implications.
• Evaluate how AI can be realistically implemented at local, state, and federal levels to counter low-frequency, high-impact CBRNE incidents.

Module 4: Additive Manufacturing and 3D-Printing related to CBRNE-WMD

• Identify both beneficial and nefarious applications of 3D printing in producing and disseminating CBRNE materials.
• Examine case studies of how nefarious actors have used or could use 3D printing to enhance CBRNE threats.
• Discuss and categorize the specific uses of 3D printing within each CBRNE modality.
• Analyze regulatory, ethical, and security implications of 3D printing in the context of CBRNE proliferation.

Module 5: Quantum Technologies in CBRNE-WMD

• Summarize various quantum technology CBRNE-WMD

Module 6: Synthetic Biological Technologies

• Analyze the steps required for synthetic biological technologies

Module 7: Illicit Application of Emerging Technologies

• Synthetic Biology: Potential for creating synthetic pathogens, gene editing, and bioengineering for malicious purposes.
• 3D Printing: Risks associated with the 3D printing of explosive devices, weapon components, and chemical dispersal mechanisms.
• AI and Machine Learning: Role in creating sophisticated delivery methods, predictive threat modeling by adversaries, and autonomous weapons systems.
• Drones and Autonomous Systems: Drones deliver biological agents, disperse chemical aerosols and position radiological sources.

Module 8: Implementing Advanced Technologies in protecting, preventing, responding, and recovering from CBRNE Incidents

• Explore how future technologies could stress or even invalidate current CBRNE-WMD technologies and defenses.