Where new technologies and risks evolve faster than lawmakers respond, JUST applies existing laws to help close regulatory gaps.
Rigorous analysis, proportionate action
We identify opportunities for legal intervention with the greatest potential to reduce risks from transformative AI and biotechnology, combining legal analysis with technical and policy expertise. We do so by analysing and applying existing laws and frameworks. We assess each opportunity for evidentiary strength, legal merit, potential impact and unintended consequences. We engage constructively where possible and escalate proportionately where necessary.
The risks we work on
We work on two categories of risks: advanced AI and biotechnology. Both are moving faster than legislation and the institutions supervising them can keep up with. They also increasingly overlap: the most serious near-term biological risk may run through AI, which is why we work on both rather than either alone.
Artificial Intelligence
Advanced artificial intelligence can deliver enormous benefits, but increasingly capable systems may also enable severe biological, chemical, cyber and security harms. We work to clarify and advance the responsibilities of governments, critical infrastructure companies and AI providers to anticipate, assess and mitigate these risks. Our aim is to ensure that powerful AI develops with effective safeguards, meaningful transparency and clear accountability.
Biotechnology
Breakthroughs in biotechnology are creating new possibilities for health, science and society, while changing the scale and nature of biological risk. We use law to strengthen prevention and preparedness across the institutions that develop, govern and enable these technologies.
Research, engagement and building legal capacity
Research
We examine how existing and emerging legal frameworks apply to catastrophic risks from artificial intelligence, biotechnology and related technologies. Working across legal disciplines and informed by technical and policy expertise, we clarify responsibilities, identify gaps in implementation and develop credible pathways for action.
Enforcement & advocacy
We engage the companies and public authorities whose decisions can materially reduce technological risk. Depending on the circumstances, we pursue dialogue, coalition-based advocacy, transparency measures, regulatory complaints or legal proceedings, independently or with partners.
Capacity building
We bring together legal, technical and policy expertise to strengthen the quality and reach of legal responses to catastrophic technological risks. By developing partnerships, shared knowledge and practical resources, we help build a multidisciplinary field capable of turning legal responsibilities into effective safeguards and accountability.
Where we focus
We focus on the institutions and companies with the power, and responsibility, to reduce catastrophic risks from transformative technologies.
