Neurospora Policy Committee notice: do not travel with fungal strains/samples

[neurosporapolicycommittee]

Hi Neurospora Community Researchers, 

In light of the recent arrest of international fungal researchers traveling with strains of Fusarium graminearum (see article below), it is the opinion of the Neurospora Policy Community that anyone traveling to the Neurospora 2025 conference in Schroon Lake, New York USA, either domestically or internationally, to not bring any fungal samples - including live Neurospora cultures - with them for exchange with others at the conference. The Neurospora Policy Committee insists that all researchers use approved shipping mechanisms for sharing strains with other researchers. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/2-chinese-nationals-charged-smuggling-potential-agroterrorism-fungus/story?id=122454213

Sincerely, 

The Neurospora Policy Committee

Jen Hurley

Luis Corrochano

Scott Baker

Andy Klocko