Public talks on stem cells, biotechnology continue

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, continues next week.

The community presentations, featuring University of Wisconsin–Madison 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 UW–Madison Division of Continuing Studies, Promega and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute, include:

• Wednesday, April 17, 7 p.m.: “DNA is here to stay,” features Michael Sussman, professor of genetics and director of the of UW–Madison’s Biotechnology Center. Sussman, who is at the heart of the biotechnology revolution, 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?” features Robert Streiffer, UW–Madison professor of medical ethics and philosophy. Streiffer 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 diseases, as well as creation of better methods for screening and testing for drugs and chemicals.

Both programs will be in the auditorium of the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute, located at 5445 E. Cheryl Parkway, just off South Fish Hatchery Road in Fitchburg. Seating is limited to the first 290 people, and free parking is available on site.

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