Center for Genetics and Society
The Center for Genetics and Society (CGS) is a nonprofit information and public affairs organization, based in Berkeley, California, United States. It encourages responsible use and regulation of new human genetic and reproductive technologies. CGS provides analysis and educational materials in addition to organizing conferences, workshops, and briefings. It is particularly critical of proposals for reproductive human cloning and germline genetic modification — uses of technology that it considers socially irresponsible. CGS is a politically progressive and pro-choice organization. Its key areas of concern include: genetic modification of humans, stem cell research, DNA forensics, preimplantation  genetic diagnosis, commercial and cross-border surrogacy, race and genetics, race-based medicines, egg retrieval, designer babies, human cloning, social sex selection, genetics and disability rights, direct-to-consumer genetic testing, human applications of synthetic biology, and the legacy of the US eugenics movement. The executive director of CGS is Marcy Darnovsky. The organization's Advisory Board includes Francine Coeytaux, Dorothy Roberts, and Alexandra Minna Stern. CGS’s current research fellows are Osagie Obasogie (Senior Fellow), Diane Beeson, Lisa Ikemoto, and Gina Maranto. History. The Center for Genetics and Society was founded in October 2001 under the leadership of Richard  A. Hayes, Ph.D. to advocate for social oversight and control of new human biotechnologies. It drew from and continues to promote discussions and collaborations with key leaders in science, medicine, women’s health, racial justice, disability rights, environmental justice, and human rights. A primary focus of the organization has been to alert civil society constituencies to the challenges posed by new human genetic technologies and assist them in building their capacity to engage in the discussions and debates about appropriate regulation. CGS organizes and presents at key conferences and symposiums on biopolitical issues both nationally and internationally; conducts briefings for  interest groups and elected officials; engages in selected policy interventions; and has a widespread media presence that includes high-profile publications, an active blog, and social media. In 2005, CGS received a “Local Heroes” award from the "San Francisco Bay Guardian". In 2006, current Executive Director Marcy Darnovsky was named one of five “women in bioethics making a difference” by the Women’s Bioethics Project. Funding. CGS is a project of the Tides Center, a 501(c)3 organization funded by individual contributions and philanthropic foundations. CGS receives support from private donors and from foundations and trusts including the Appleton Foundation; Lyman  B. Brainerd, Jr. Family Foundation; and John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.