The Air Force "In Silico" -- Computational Biology in 2025
Abstract
The biological sciences have recently experienced remarkable advances and there are now frequent claims that "we are on the advent of being able to model or simulate biological systems to the smallest, molecular detail." Such a capability, the product of a science known as computational biology, could radically change the health and life sciences and may have enormous impact in many fields, including military operations. This study addresses the questions of whether or not computational biology will be able to simulate biological systems by 2025, and what the implications are for the United States Air Force (USAF). An examination of current capabilities and limitations leads to a prediction that computational biology is unlikely to be "mature" by 2025. Nevertheless, the USAF stands to benefit, even though its application will be limited to certain well understood models. Successful computational solutions are more likely to be found to biological and health problems that exhibit certain identified characteristics. A risk analysis and recommendations for USAF involvement are provided, based on likely progress of computational biology over the next 15-20 years.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA474845
Entities
People
- Christopher Coates
Organizations
- Air War College