Topic Summary
A new era of medicine is emerging as gene-editing technologies like CRISPR become more diverse and increasingly accessible to the public. Genome therapies advancing through both viral vectors (using modified viruses to deliver genetic material) show promise against complex disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases and non-viral vectors (using direct chemical and physical methods) and have already been approved for conditions like sickle cell disease. Genomic-based medicine is reshaping patient–doctor relationships by enabling highly personalized treatments, yet the prohibitive cost of approved therapies risks worsening the already existing crisis of healthcare accessibility. While current practice largely limits editing to somatic cells, germline, gamete, and zygote interventions remain taboo. However, figures like Dr. He Jiankui’s have already set the precedent of such edits being successfully made. When germline cell editing will enter mainstream science is only a question of time. As that moment approaches, this committee will focus on tackling such questions as: what defines a genomic “mistake” versus a natural variation, where the boundary between innovation and morality should be drawn, and how different legal systems and cultural values will shape the governance of this technology.
There are no Position Papers required for this committee.
Director: Polina Evdokimova
Polina Andreevna Evdokimova is a senior at Florida International University, pursuing a B.S. in Biochemistry and a Certificate in Human Rights and Political Transitions. Originally from Moscow, Russia, she began her scientific journey with an environmental research team at Moscow State University, where she developed a lasting passion for science.She currently researches estrogen receptor-driven cardiovascular remodeling, studying sex differences in valve remodeling in Dr. Hutcheson’s Cardiovascular Matrix Remodeling Lab (CMRL). Polina has also collaborated with Dr. Modesto Maidique on the Moral Quotient Project, which examines how moral reasoning influences leadership.Beyond the lab, Polina is passionate about music, art, and history. A graduate of the Golovanov Music School, she plays piano and guitar and has practiced mounted archery and medieval sword fighting. Her broader scientific interests lie in Genomics and Gene Therapy, and she looks forward to this year’s FIMUN for the new perspectives it will bring on the future of gene therapy research.
Chair: Jupiter Peart
Jupiter Peart (He/Him) Is a first year at Florida International University, part of the Honors College, majoring in Global Studies - Sociology with a Pre-Law and a Human Rights certificate. This is his first year as part of FIU's MUN Team, and his first Chair position. However he is proud to become one of the many delegates aiming to maintain FIU MUN's high ranking position in North America. Outside of MUN and school, Jupiter is an avid member of FIU's Caribbean Student Associate and Pride Student Union. He loves video games, visiting the occasional theater or museum, amusement parks, and watching video essays on history, culture, and media. Jupiter is looking forward to chairing for FIMUN delegates this Spring!