In 2003, a committee of the National Research Council (NRC),¹ building on a decade of experience promoting U.S.-Russian engagement in biological research and in close consultation with Russian colleagues, initiated a study that would set forth a realistic vision for the development of the biosciences and biotechnology in Russia over the next ten years. Further, the committee considered practical steps that could be taken by Russia, independently or collaboratively with international partners, to move toward the achievement of that vision.

The specific charge to the NRC committee responsible for this assessment was as follows:

Thus, the report should be of interest to officials and specialists in both Russia and the United States and also to the broader scientific community around the world.

Of primary importance is the evolution of a stronger, more flexible public health system in Russia that is increasingly integrated into global networks as they respond to endemic and emerging diseases. These enhanced capabilities could contribute to a significant reduction of vaccine-preventable and drug-curable infections in both humans and animals in Russia, which would include: (1) more effective utilization of disease prevention measures; (2) increased effectiveness at national and local levels in controlling arthropod vectors and animals that serve as reservoirs for zoonotic diseases; and (3) a more effective global approach to combating infections through stronger and more active cooperation with international partners.