Few areas of medicine inspire as much interest, hope and controversy as stem cell technology. As one of the most promising cures for many diseases, researchers are faced with an extraordinary number of ethical and technical hurdles.

In order to make informed decisions about the use of these important technologies, it is critical to provide the next generation of students with a broad-based education.  Most biology textbooks provide little or no coverage of stem cell biology, making it difficult for science teachers to prepare students for understanding the fundamental science and ethical landscape critical for developing future medical innovations in this complex area.

With this challenge in mind, The Biotechnology Center at the Kellogg School of Management and the Office of STEM Education Partnerships at Northwestern University have joined forces with The Biotechnology Institute (BI) and The Chicago Council on Science and Technology—as well as many other regional university, industry, and school Partners—to initiate a one day symposium that will address the science of stem cells and potential applications; the ethics and policies surrounding stem cell technologies; and, identify resources and methods for developing and implementing curriculum in schools and public education forums.

As part of a national effort created by the BI and National Academies to teach stem cell biology, this symposium will include presentations and panel discussions led by regional industry experts and top educators providing an interdisciplinary approach for teachers, policy makers and scientists to collaborate and develop ways to educate students and inspire greater involvement in the future of stem cell technology.

We invite you to join us on Friday, February 22, 2008 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the James L. Allen Center, Northwestern University Evanston Campus. There is no cost to attend this the event but registration is required and spaces are limited. Continental breakfast and lunch are included. For teachers, the Symposium is eligible for CEU's and there is funding available to cover the cost of a substitute teacher.

SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM
(MUST HAVE ADOBE READER TO OPEN FILE)

WEBCASTING
(Click below to access webcasting of event)

http://nuamps.at.northwestern.edu/CGM/StemCell08/panel_1.ram
http://nuamps.at.northwestern.edu/CGM/StemCell08/panel_2.ram
http://nuamps.at.northwestern.edu/CGM/StemCell08/panel_3.ram
http://nuamps.at.northwestern.edu/CGM/StemCell08/breakout_report.ram