Jaydee Hanson directs the Center for Technology Assessment’s work on human genetics, including work on stem cell research, cloning, and gene/embryo patenting. He also works on the convergence of biotechnology and nanotechnology.
He is a fellow of the Institute on Biotechnology and the Human Future. Prior to coming to CTA in 2004, he served as The United Methodist Church’s staff director of genetics and bioethics issues from 1981 to 2004. From 1991 to 2004, he also was the legislative director for the church.
Mr. Hanson has testified to many state and US congressional hearings on human cloning, animal and gene patenting, and related issues. He coordinated the 1995 religious leaders’ statement opposing gene and animal patenting, which was endorsed by over 200 leaders from every US religious tradition. Hanson has served on many committees related to public policy and genetics.
He chaired the National Council of Churches’ Exploratory Commission on the New Human Genetics and chaired the National Council of Churches’ Eco-justice Working Group biotechnology task-force.
He is a member of the World Council of Churches’ genetics and nanotechnology committees, which developed new policy for that world-wide body of 400 denominations. He served on the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s Science and Religion Advisory Committee and the Ecumenical Roundtable on Science and Religion.
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