[9] While a graduate student in David Liu's laboratory, Esvelt demonstrated phage-assisted continuous evolution (PACE), a method of using bacteriophages to quickly and efficiently engineer proteins, promoters, and other biomolecules.

[5] In the wake of his controversial work on gene drive technology, and the failures of existing public health structures to adequately respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, Esvelt has become more active in biosecurity research.

He argues that action must be taken soon, given that many researchers are able to construct or reconstruct deadly viruses in the lab, and there are few robust safeguards protecting humanity against accidental or deliberate release of these bioweapons.

He envisions a three-tiered security system: early detection using a Nucleic Acid Observatory,[17] advanced preparation (involving stockpiling broad-spectrum medicines and better PPE), and better coordination between scientists, organizations, and countries.

[18] Esvelt is also involved in SecureDNA, a technology to screen all synthetic DNA sequence orders to prevent actors from obtaining dangerous genes (e.g., from a deadly virus).

Esvelt appears in the Netflix series Unnatural Selection, where he discusses his efforts to conduct gene drives and the response of the local people who would be affected.