Talks focus on biosciences

A series of free public evening presentations exploring advances and issues in the biological life sciences, particularly biotechnology, the human genome and stem cell research, begins in March with a talk on the history of biotechnology and what it all means today.

The community presentations, featuring university professors, will provide an opportunity for adults, teachers, and middle and high school students to learn about cutting edge advances in the biological life sciences, as well as the social, political and ethical issues surrounding these developments.

The community talks, cosponsored by the Division of Continuing Studies, Promega and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute. All programs will be presented in the auditorium of the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute located at 5445 East Cheryl Parkway, off South Fish Hatchery Road in Fitchburg Center. Seating is limited to the first 290 people and free parking is available on-site.

The talks are scheduled as follows:

• Wednesday, March 13, 7 p.m., “The History and Development of Biotechnology – How Did We Get Here?” Richard Burgess, professor of oncology and former director of UW–Madison’s Biotechnology Center, will explain what biotechnology is all about, including some recent discoveries and commercial applications of the biotechnology revolution.
• Wednesday, April 17, 7 p.m., “DNA Is Here to Stay.” Michael Sussman, professor of genetics and director of the of UW–Madison’s Biotechnology Center, will take a look at the tools and methods of biotechnology, and share his perspective on the successes and the potential of biotechnology to advance science and society.
• Wednesday, May 15, 7 p.m., “What’s All The Brouhaha About Stem Cell Research?” Robert Streiffer, UW–Madison professor of medical ethics and philosophy, will explore all sides of the burgeoning social, political, and ethical issues involved in culturing human embryonic stem cells and developing new products that could revolutionize medicine through promising new therapies for juvenile diabetes, Parkinson’s and heart disease, as well as creating better methods for screening and testing for drugs and chemicals.

“Recent advances in the biological life sciences profoundly impact our lives, and with the likelihood of continued discoveries, such impacts could become even more significant,” says Howard Martin, dean of the Division of Continuing Studies. “Along with these advances, we face complex social, political and ethical issues. We hope that these community programs will not only enhance science education and literacy, but also help people deal with these issues as well.”

For more information, contact Peyton Smith, assistant vice chancellor for extended programs, (608) 262-8214.