Talks to focus on stem cell issues

A series of free public evening discussions, “Stem Cells, Medical Therapeutics and the UW” begins next week with a look at the biology of stem cell research.

The talks, sponsored by the Program in Science and Technology Studies, are funded by an Endowment from the Robert M. and Jean Holtz Fund. Here is the program schedule:

• Monday, Feb. 4 7:30 p.m. Pyle Center Auditorium: “The Biology of Stem-Cell Research,” featuring UW–Madison panelists Clive Svendsen, professor of anatomy and neurology; Robert Auerbach, emeritus professor of zoology; and moderator Joan Fujimura, professor of sociology.
• Monday, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. Pyle Center Auditorium: “Who Owns the Fruits of Stem-Cell Research?” Panelists are Carl Gulbrandsen, managing director, Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation; Pilar Ossorio, assistant professor of law and medical ethics, UW–Madison, and moderator Daniel Kleinman, associate professor of rural sociology, UW–Madison.
• Monday, Feb. 25, 4:30 p.m. Pyle Center Auditorium: “The Ethics of Stem-Cell Research and Therapeutics,” featuring panelists Therese Lysaught, associate professor of religious studies, University of Dayton; Norman Fost, professor of pediatrics and medical ethics, UW–Madison and moderator Elliott Sober, professor of philosophy, UW–Madison.

For more information, contact Thomas Broman, associate professor, history of science and director, Program in Science and Technology Studies, (608) 263-1562, thbroman@facstaff.wisc.edu.